How my journey began
Hello,
I’m Erin Hulon and I’m so honored and grateful to have found my passion working in this profession. Having a career in the counseling field was never a dream goal growing up. I wanted to be an artist working in the field of animation. I loved movies because I could get lost in exciting, powerful and beautiful stories. Drawing was an enjoyment but also an escape for me especially when I felt alone and had no control over the world around me.
My parents (like many parents) divorced when I was about 2 years old. I was predominantly raised by my mother who was amazing but also very busy. I saw my dad on weekends who encouraged my artistic talents and other interests but I never lived with him. I dealt with stressors like a lot of kids that included bullying, fighting with my sibling and a step dad who was around for only 4 years but did a number on my self-esteem with mental and emotional abuse.
When I was about 10 years old I knew something was wrong. Despite having what appeared to be a great life on the outside in beautiful Orange County I still felt depressed. High school was especially hard as many of my friends experienced sexual trauma that heavily impacted me. However, I had one psychology class that also impacted me in a positive way. I thought about going into the counseling field when I was looking into college but my family (in their own loving way) reminded me that I was passionate about art.
When I was getting my Bachelors in Animation at the Laguna College of Art and Design, I ended up having a severe manic episode followed by 6 months of even more severe depression. I was diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder at 23 years old. As I got treatment everything in my life changed for the better. I recognized that I wanted more purpose in my career and felt a deeper inspiration to help people who also struggle with mental health issues. Thankfully one good friend helped me get through the process of applying to colleges (since I was suddenly changing my career and didn’t know what to do). I got into California State University Fullerton and graduated in 2013 with my Master’s in Counseling to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
What Success Has Looked Like For My Clients
L.A - came to me so overwhelmed by anxiety that she had not been able to drive for 10 years. After working with me for less than 3 months she was able to go shopping, drive where she needed to and be on her own.
M. G - Couldn’t even think about going to get another mammogram again after being diagnosed and treated for cancer years prior. After being treated she was able to comfortably see the doctor without crying and feeling excessive fear.
A.F - Worked as a first responder for years that left him plagued with nightmares, flashbacks and paranoia. In less than a few months he was able to stay in the present moment, sleep without nightmares and feel optimistic again.
