Alumni Spotlight: 

Q&A with Paige Cole

California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University

MA Marriage and Family Therapy, Sacramento Campus

Professional Information 

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Kaiser Permanente in Stockton, CA

Q: How did your Alliant experience contribute to your career growth? 

A: Choosing Alliant was an invaluable decision toward preparation for this career path. Upon entering the program, we were provided realistic information on what to expect in this journey and the process of growth throughout it. In times when I have felt afraid or lost, I have returned back to that and it has been reassuring, empowering, and motivating. The education (lectures, videos, scenarios, papers, practicum) have all provided foundational skills that I utilize daily and allow me to connect with patients and do the deeper work.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your work? 

A: What I enjoy most about my work is the ability to continue to learn and develop through training, collaboration, and consultation. To learn a modality, or a skill within a modality, and utilize it in a way that deeply connects with a patient is fascinating to me and helps me to feel that I am being with the patient in the right way. Growth is a captivating journey, both in being able to experience it and witness it.

Q: What inspires you to make a positive difference in the world? 

A: I grew up in a lot of darkness, and while the experiences within that journey have been painful and difficult, they have also given me the ability to learn and grow into a survivor. I feel inspired to make a positive difference in this world for many reasons, several of which are due to the incredible support, understanding, and motivation from those who have helped me along my journey without hesitance. Due to my determination and willpower, I have survived and aspire to help others along their journeys.  

Q: Share your advice for current students.

A: Be mindful of giving yourself grace. This is a learning process that continues long after the program ends (my guess is forever). It is okay to ask questions and seek out answers; you will not know it all and that’s okay. Learn to become present with your patients (which can be challenging when we feel nervous or inadequate); this is really important to helping individuals on their journey.

If you would like to share your reflections in an Alliant alumni spotlight, please click here or email alumni@alliant.edu.