I believe the greatest lessons I’ve ever learned in my life is to follow my heart, my soul, and my passion. I work with children every day in my practice, and I encourage them to do just that. Discovering and following my own passion has been in fact a long and arduous journey for me.

I began my career as an accountant, Making that choice solely out of fear of my parents reproach. Over time, I began to experience acute anxiety during the course of my accounting career, seven years in total. My body was offering me a very clear signal that something was wrong.

After a time, I chose to heed that signal. I quit my very secure job in the accounting world, and headed into the great unknown of graduate school in clinical psychology. Many people suggested this was a very bad idea, destined to fail. Why would someone give up such safety, to follow a dream?

Eventually I received my doctorate, and opened my practice. That was 15 years ago, and I have served and helped more than 300 families in that time. I love my work, and hold it more precious and dear than almost anything. I am so grateful that I took the leap of faith and followed what mattered most to me. I tell this story to my young clients frequently, and hope that they too will follow their passions.

– John Duffy, Psychologist, Author