Coastal Life Counseling
Charlene Whetstone, MA, NCC, LPC

Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts (Auburn University):

My bachelor degree was in art:  I don’t know why I chose this major.  I think it was because I took art in high school and someone told me I was good. I really enjoyed it, but it did not prepare me for a career.

Unfortunately too many students begin college without any real knowledge about careers, without knowing anything about their capabilities or interests. Career education usually is not part of the high school curriculum.  In today’s economy, it’s critical to explore your career abilities and interests for a strong and passionate start in a career that could last a lifetime.  It is important to do a cost-benefit analysis of a college education in any given major and degree.  I have the training and skills to provide career counseling and I am passionate about making informed career  and college choices.

And just so you know, I minored in English literature and ornamental horticulture. Imagine the benefits of those choices!

Master of Arts in Education:

After graduating from Auburn, I married and moved to the University of Kansas with my husband. He was pursuing his passion in life – paleontology.

Seeking to continue my education in art, I applied for the Master’s of Fine Arts program.  And I was not accepted.  So I looked into teaching. Thankfully, I met a wonderful professor who encouraged me to go for my Master’s in Education.

In the education field, I found a passion:  Teaching and learning how to learn. Teaching art was a way of helping people enjoy the world around them and to enjoy the expression of life.

Master of Arts in Counseling:

For the next 20 years I had a full life:  I did some teaching, I raised two wonderful boys, traveled the world, and volunteered and worked in the schools. And then I was presented with the opportunity to go back to school to learn about counseling.  I applied for the Master’s program at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) and was accepted. To my surprise and delight, I did very well and passed my credentialing exams with flying colors!  I tell you this because I want you to know that I know how to be very successful in academics. This is not because I am particularly “smart”, but because I know how to learn.  Life is easier when you learn how to learn.  My only regret is that I did become a counselor earlier in my life. I discovered that I love counseling.  I love working with people to discover their strengths, evaluate their challenges and then help them create plans for an improved, healthier, more productive life.

The counseling program at SHSU is rigorous.  At the time, it required 48 graduate hours to graduate.  Since my interests were so varied, I completed 60 hours.  I am well-trained in most areas of mental health including substance use disorders, school counseling, college counseling, sexual concerns, adolescents, family and more.  I believe in evidence based therapies that are known to work and are proven through testing and evaluation.  I also believe in the strengths and abilities of each and every person to create change in his or her life.

Continuing Education:

My education did not stop with graduation from the counseling program and obtaining my license.  I am continually researching and finding new ways to help my clients.  In order to be always growing as a professional counselor I attend conferences and workshops. I seek consultation and supervision when needed. I participate in online forums and various professional associations. For me, life is a continuous learning process.