I have been reflecting on my previous experience as an intern counselor, which was part of fulfilling my state licensing hours, at a counseling center for military veterans.

I have been reflecting on my previous experience as an intern counselor, which was part of fulfilling my state licensing hours, at a counseling center for military veterans.

This position proved to be quite challenging, as I was not adequately and fully informed about the scope of my responsibilities from the outset. My duties included leading all day group sessions, traveling extensively to various rehab homes, and handling overnight crisis calls—all within the same day. I felt overwhelmed and believed that the expectations placed upon me were unreasonable. Unfortunately, I was terminated from this role on my birthday, and I sensed that my supervisor’s actions were intentionally passive-aggressive.

Subsequently, the organization faced legal action, which I initiated alongside a former employee who had previously attempted to file a lawsuit. Our class action arose due to widespread issues such as unpaid overtime, damaged personal vehicles, and late payments. My experience there included not only the demanding work environment but also incidents of harassment from clients, which compounded my impending sense of being trapped and experiencing secondary trauma symptoms.

Having recently graduated from graduate school, this was my first professional role at what was advertised as a reputable organization.

While we did receive a settlement, I still feel a sense of discontent regarding the situation.

I realize that a significant factor contributing to my feelings of unrest is the inadequate treatment of the military veterans I worked with. They received substandard care, such as therapy sessions being conducted in a garage during the summer heat, while clients battling lesser issues were given prioritized access to air conditioning, promtpness for meals.

The veterans frequently voiced concerns about delays in medication, inadequate facilities, and unmet needs. Initially, they hesitated to speak up, but as they began to advocate for themselves, I found myself let go from the position without justification.

It also became apparent that my successor engaged in undermining tactics, providing me with misleading information while he lacked the necessary qualifications to even work with the vets, he had been insistent and getting my role even though he didn't even have an AA degree, it's illegal for counselors without a masters to provide therapy to military vets, and I had to remind him of that frequently but he never stopped pushing. It seems that the organization valued compliance with internal interests over adherence to ethical and legal standards.

Although I had hoped my termination would allow me to regroup, it hasnt.

. I would appreciate any advice on how to navigate these feelings and prevent this negative experience from impacting my interviews going forward.