"We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience." - John Dewey

“Reflecting helps me grow and better understand my past experiences… this is how I learn.” – Valerie Armstrong

Artifact
Benchmark – Applied Counseling Techniques Reflection (Obj. 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3), School Counseling Practicum, SCN-600

Professional and Ethical Standards
ASCA Standard: B-SS 6. Collaborate with families, teachers, administrators, other school staff and education stakeholders for student achievement and success.
ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors: B.3. Responsibilities to Self
CACREP Standard: G. 3. 8. Skills to critically examine the connections between social, familial, emotional, and behavior problems and academic achievement
Related Standards: Professional (CACREP, ASCA) and ethical (ASCA)

Reflection
This is one of the most important questions I have ever had to answer. How do I demonstrate reflective practice and a desire for continual improvement in my professional practice? My #1 choice is to seek feedback from my supervisor. I have found that more experienced peers provide a plethora of valuable information. Colleagues and students can provide insights that are crucial for growth. Setting clear goals would be my next reflective practice. Establishing clear, measurable goals ensures my continued growth, and regularly reviewing helps me to stay on track. In addition, pursuing opportunities for professional development helps me to stay current with best practices and emerging trends. Self-care is one of those practices that I have grown to love since this journey began. Taking time to simply walk in the park and listen to my spiritual music has proven to be my saving grace. Engaging in self-reflection regularly helps me to identify what was a success and an area for improvement. Reflecting helps me grow and better understand my past experiences; this is how I learn.