My Personal Reasons:

I've always had the inclination toward being a helper, particularly in a counselor-type role. I seem to have been born with a sign on my forehead that says “TELL ME YOUR PROBLEMS”. And I don't mind. I like it. I seem to be able to help people and that makes me happy. So I went to school for years and years, and now I have a master's degree in therapy.

But I also want to work for myself. I also like to have control over my work environment. I get stressed out by the unpredictable nature of working in someone else's office. (See, even Issuesgirl has issues.) I love that I'm sitting in my pajamas while I write. It is my hope that someday this site will make me (and my business partner) some cash, and I can quit my day job.

The Bigger Picture:

It seems to me that our society is becoming more digital and less communal. It used to be that if you had a problem, you would go talk to your grandma, your minister, or some old guy down the street. People hung around each other more, and certainly didn't spend hours staring at a (TV, computer, etc.) screen. Now that we have technological ways of staying in touch, in many ways we are less connected. But people still need help, advice, guidance, or just knowing someone is there. For some people, the therapist has filled that role. But not everyone has access to a therapist, or they don't feel their issue really warrants hours of discussion or hundreds of dollars. That's where I hope to fit in. I want to be a helper, advisor, and sounding board to those who feel disconnected.

Want to know more? Drop Issuesgirl a line! girl@issuesgirl.com