Crashing and Burning... I'm totally in Survivor Mode right now...as this past week, I really felt drained. In other words, yes, I'm burning out from school courses, studying, reading, working on my thesis paper, counselling, etc. I noticed this among Linda and Meena, two of my other good friends and classmates who are going through the 2 year fast track of grad school with me. For the first time last night, my stress levels have affected my sleep. Since I couldn't sleep, I started reading a book Meena gave to me for christmas, Chicken Soup for the Bride's Soul, which was quite enjoyable, and it helped take my mind off things.

I was eager to talk to my supervisor today regarding my low energies and high stress, and how I can channel it so that it would not affect my skills in providing therapy services. I'm at the point where sometimes, I do not look forward to counselling (and usually, I don't see it as "work" - I love, love, love counselling but my energies are so low that it's hard to gather enough to get through the day).

During group supervision today (where all students come together with supervisors), I broke down. Last minute, I was asked to present because another student wasn't able to make it. Well, usually group supervision is laid back and I don't mind presenting. However, one of the supervisors, whom I met for the first time today, came back from sabatical leave, and just started hardcore sargent drilling me with questions I was not prepared to answer. Normally, I would be able to handle such pressure, but because I was overstresed and overtired, I totally broke down- I cried like a baby in front of the whole group - and I couldn't stop. I was somewhat embarassed, but I also saw it was a sign that my body had enough , and it needed the stress to be released.

Later, I found out that this supervisor is extremely tough, and has had told students in the past that they were not good enough to work at the agency we were at. YIKES! I know she was not trying to put me down, as her style may come across as harsh, but it is probably her way of bringing awareness to our therapy skills. I did appreciate it, but at the same time, today of all days was not the day to take on this pressure.

Soon I'm going to head over to Dan's place, who's making me supper (of course according to my meal plan!), then we're going to watch Stomp. I can't wait! It's our belated Valentine's day, since we didn't get to celebrate last week. It'll also be a nice break.

FINALLY, I want to shout out a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO my friend, Sholly, who's turning 27 today!!! Have a good one, Shols!!! XOXOX