Helena Stevens, PhD, LPC, LSC, PPS, NCC

I attribute my success to consistently staying true to my core principles, upholding my values and beliefs with integrity, and demonstrating unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. These qualities have allowed me to navigate both personal and professional challenges with determination and purpose. My commitment to serving others is not only a guiding force in my career but also a cornerstone of my character, deeply shaped by my formative experiences growing up in a trauma-affected household. These experiences have instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and compassion, motivating me to foster supportive environments and advocate for the well-being of those around me. By remaining steadfast in my convictions and prioritizing meaningful service, I strive to make a positive and lasting impact in every endeavor I undertake.

The most valuable career advice I have ever received originated from a thoughtful colleague who encouraged me to concentrate my energy on pursuits that genuinely advance my professional objectives. This guidance was accompanied by a poignant reminder to avoid getting entangled in matters that do not contribute meaningfully to my progress. As my colleague eloquently put it: “Are you sure… is that going to get you to your end goal? No? Let it go, sister.” This advice has profoundly influenced my decision-making, urging me to regularly assess whether my actions align with my career aspirations. By deliberately letting go of distractions and unnecessary conflicts, I have been able to maintain focus, maximize productivity, and foster a more positive and purposeful professional journey.

If I could offer one heartfelt piece of guidance to young women stepping into this industry, it would be this: stay true to yourself, no matter what pressures you encounter. Don’t feel compelled to fit into someone else’s mold, play the system’s game, or play by rules that don’t align with your own beliefs. The path may be tough at times, but your values are your compass—cling to them, even when it feels easier to compromise. Seek out mentors who genuinely care about your growth, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, because having a strong community can make all the difference when challenges arise. Resilience and courage will be your greatest allies; there will be moments when you stumble or doubt yourself, but those are chances for growth. Above all, make thoughtful decisions about which battles are worth your energy. Not every challenge needs to be confronted head-on—sometimes, walking away is the wisest choice. Trust yourself, trust your instincts, and remember that your journey is uniquely yours.

One of the most pressing challenges facing my field centers around deeply rooted systemic and institutional barriers within higher education. These obstacles disproportionately impact women, and especially women of color, who often encounter limited access to resources, mentorship, and advancement opportunities. Additionally, the continued dependence on school-based interventions that lack effectiveness further hinders progress, underscoring the need for innovative solutions. Despite these challenges, there are substantial opportunities to advance the field by producing scholarly work that is directly relevant to practitioners. Moreover, there is a growing demand for expert consultation in the development of rigorous, standards-driven, and evidence-based training programs for universities and other training providers. By addressing these needs, professionals can contribute to the creation of more equitable and impactful educational practices, fostering a more inclusive environment and promoting sustainable change across institutions.

The values that guide me in both my professional and personal life are firmly rooted in a commitment to service, integrity, and resilience. I believe that serving others—whether colleagues, clients, or the broader community—is both foundational to career and my life’s calling. I am dedicated to maintaining integrity by consistently adhering to my principles, ensuring that my actions align with my ethical standards regardless of circumstances. Demonstrating resilience and courage enables me to navigate challenges with perseverance and adaptability, embracing opportunities for growth even in the face of adversity. Furthermore, I prioritize mindfulness and practice radical acceptance, striving to remain present and open-minded while acknowledging and respecting diverse perspectives. Recognizing the importance of self-care, I make it a priority to nurture my well-being, understanding that personal health and balance are essential for sustained professional excellence and meaningful relationships.