Graduation profile: Janese Olalde

Janese Olalde, 53, will receive her master’s degree in couples and family therapy when she graduates June 14 from the University of Oregon. She is from Eugene. “I enjoy having the intimate connection (of) working with people in therapy,” she says. “I enjoy helping people discover their own inner strengths and resources that were there all along, but lost or forgotten.”
 
Academic accomplishments:
GPA 4.30, Latino Family Therapy Certificate
 
Extracurricular/leadership activity:
Member of the Shamwari Marimba Performing Ensemble; volunteer mediator in Spanish and English at Center for Mediation Services and Restorative Justice Program; chair of Lane Community College Department of Human Services Advisory Board.
 
Attending and graduating college is significant to my family (or because of my background) because … I worked in the addictions field for almost 19 years. I always thought getting my master’s was beyond my reach and it is exciting to have fulfilled my dream.
 
The reason I chose the University of Oregon for my education is … I live in Eugene and I wanted to be close to my daughters and their families, and I heard the Couples and Family Therapy Program was exceptional. I wanted to help families. I wanted to work with Spanish-speaking families. I wanted to have more skills to feel more effective.
 
The most rewarding experience/challenge I’ve had while earning my degree was … I have loved every minute of school. I have loved the learning and growth and companionship of the other students more than I ever imagined.
 
My proudest accomplishment while at the UO is … I have been working as a student therapist with children at my internship site. I have really enjoyed working with children. It has brought me in touch with my own inner child. I believe children have an inner wisdom that needs to be listened to, honored and respected.
 
While pursuing my degree I was most inspired by … (the fact that) all of the professors in the couples and family therapy program are exceptional instructors and exceptional human beings. I was especially inspired by their humanness, genuine caring and dedication to the therapy field.
 
My UO degree is valuable because … I speak Spanish and I hope to work with Spanish-speaking families needing addiction and mental health counseling. I feel I have the skills to be effective and helpful to those seeking therapy.