Brittany
	VETERANS Hometown: Griswald, CT College: UConn Current Occupation:  Licensed Clinical Social Worker in a child guidance clinic. Years with Team:  R   Full Bio | Photo Gallery

Another year has gone by so quickly!  Overseas tours, auditions, making the 2010 calendar and cheering on our great team have certainly kept me one busy cheerleader!  But as you can imagine, cheering for the Patriots is only one aspect of my busy life.  When I am not on the field, I am working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.  

Obtaining my LCSW is an accomplishment that I achieved this past March after years of preparation.  Although this credentialing process varies by state, the level of training required for all social workers is quite similar.  At the Child Guidance Clinic where I work, therapists are required to hold a Master’s degree in order to practice clinically.  I began my post-graduate work three and a half years ago, with the goal of becoming an LCSW in mind. 

After completing the required number of clinical practice and supervision hours (approximately two years), I was ready to sit for my state exam.  This is when the anxiety kicked in!  It was challenging for me to find the time and motivation to hit the books again, but the support and encouragement from my family, friends and co-workers allowed me to push through the fear of failing and give the test my best shot. 

On test day, my nerves were high, much like they were my first game performing as a Patriots Cheerleader.  After almost four hours of plugging away answers on the computer screen in front of me, I clicked my final key to complete the exam process.  The computer notified me of my passing score, and I re-read it five times just to make sure! 

Becoming a licensed therapist allows me to further my career as a social worker in many ways.  For example, I can take a supervisory role in a child guidance clinic, become a college professor or even own a private practice.  Whatever the case may be, I am proud to have completed the licensing process and accomplished my goal.   I look forward to using my credentials to help better the lives of individuals and families in the community for many years to come!   In the meantime, let us stay warm and keep cheering on our #1 PATS!