Meet Intern Amber Vigueria

1. What’s been your career journey up to this point?

I graduated from the University of Missouri in 1999 and worked as a registered nurse for 8 years. Throughout that time I was able to work in various areas of the hospital, including travel assignments around the United States. I finally found a home in the Emergency department where my love for healing people really grew. After meeting and marrying my Air Force husband, travels became a normal part of life. I learned that home was wherever the military placed us, which allowed me to transition my career from nurse to mom as we welcomed three children into our lives. I watched them grow, and I chose to grow in my career as well. As we settle into our final military move, I am honored to call Colorado home as I continue on my counseling journey. 

2. Why did you join the Cornerstone team? What are you excited about?

I love that Cornerstone is a Christian-based counseling center and I am surrounded by a team of people who support not only my career but my relationship with Christ. I am humbled at the care and regard they have for each team member and the love and patience shown. Technique and skills aside, I hope to grow and learn how to treat others the way I have been treated by them.

 

3. What drew you into the counseling field? Why did you become a therapist?

As a nurse, especially in the ER, I saw brokenness all around me. I felt helpless at times when I would recognize that people were crying out for more than I could offer. When I decided to transition back into the workforce I knew that I wanted my role to change. I wanted to expand on that passion and build relationships, especially from a faith-based perspective.

4. Have you been through counseling yourself? What was that like for you?

I experienced health issues several years ago. With the help of a very empathetic counselor, I was able to work through my issues and cope better with my situation. The benefit of counseling not only helped me through a difficult season, it helped me be a better wife and mother through that time as well.

5. What would you tell someone thinking about counseling?

I find myself saying, “have you thought about counseling,” all the time because of my personal experience with it. I know it can be intimidating to make that call but it is an investment in your health and peace of mind.