ERICK MEJIA | CLINICAL INTERN

Individual Counseling & Therapy | Jefferson City, MO

My name is Erick Mejia. I’m currently a practicing Counseling Intern with The Counseling Hub and a graduate student at Northwestern University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

These are common reasons people come into counseling. These are the reasons people seek help.

More often than not, folks still feel some sort of shame in reaching out. One of the reasons Tara founded The Counseling Hub was to diminish that sense of shame, to normalize the fact that all people struggle in some way during their lives, and to empower people to grow and heal in their own unique way.

The Counseling Hub is all about connecting, healing, and growing.

My role as a clinician is to ensure the creation of a safe, non-judgmental space for any and all of my clients. This space is for clients to feel like they can finally break free from outside expectations and explore their internal landscape. They can ask and answer questions like, “Who am I without society’s expectations?” And, “What is it that I really want for myself?” The therapeutic safe space facilitates the process for our work together to explore those answers, as well as deeply understand the patterns and emotions that shape your life. We do this together. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Five Fun Facts About Erick

1. I love video games.
   My interests are super diverse, but I’m especially drawn to games that let me think critically and develop my skills. Sometimes that comes from a powerful narrative like The Last of Us, and other times it’s through complex mechanics like Street Fighter 6. Video games have always been an important way for me to unwind when I need a break or challenge myself when I’m in the mood. They give me space to recharge in a way that feels both fun and meaningful.

2. Audiobooks and comics never get old.
   I sometimes find it difficult to sit and read for long periods, but audiobooks and comics always hold my attention. They’ve become one of my favorite ways to enjoy stories, especially anything science fiction or fantasy. Comics and manga, in particular, make it easy for me to get immersed without feeling tired. One of my long-term goals is to finally read all of Berserk, which has been on my list forever. Whether I’m listening or reading, these formats are another way for me to have a bit of escapism from time to time.

3. My animals are my best friends.
   I have three dogs and two aquariums, and they bring so much joy and comfort into my everyday life. There’s nothing I love more than enjoying one of my hobbies with my animals right next to me. Even the frogs make me smile—they’ll swim up to the glass to “hang out” whenever someone gets close. Spending time with my pets is my main way of staying grounded whenever I feel overstimulated.

4. I enjoy learning languages.
   I’ve studied Spanish on and off since seventh grade, and continuing to learn it feels deeply meaningful to me. My father’s family is from El Salvador, and many of my relatives speak only Spanish, so maintaining that connection is important. I’d consider myself moderately proficient, but speaking with native speakers can still feel like a challenge I’m working to overcome. I’m also casually learning Japanese. My long-term goal is to eventually use Spanish in my clinical work so I can support a wider community.

5. I am always trying new things.
   Based on everything I enjoy, it’s probably clear that my interests are always expanding and evolving. I love exploring new hobbies and experiences, especially when they push me outside my comfort zone. I am a very open-minded person and always willing to try something new. To me, the willingness I have to experience all life has to offer is what keeps life fun and fulfilling.

Erick’s Education and Training

I’m currently a Master’s student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Northwestern University. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Health Science from The University of Missouri and began a career as a Respiratory Therapist. The hospital setting allowed me to witness how many individuals, not only required medical care but were often overlooked for mental well-being, and I quickly discovered my passion for mental health and the urgent need for more mental health providers in the community.

My current program has provided me with a solid foundation in trauma-informed care, multicultural competency, and modern psychodynamic theory. I’ve developed a strong interest in working with adults who are navigating anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ related concerns, and/or those seeking to explore deep-seated unresolved conflicts that may be impacting their daily lives, such as adverse childhood experiences. Beyond my formal education, I’m also passionate about learning more about and conducting research on the intersection of these factors. My goal is to truly understand the effects of conflict with one’s family and culture on LGBTQ+ individuals as they grow into adulthood and begin forming their own relationships.

Erick is a Counseling Intern with The Counseling Hub. He is under ongoing supervision at The Counseling Hub with Molly Lyons-Sword, license #2020006868, a licensed professional counselor and approved supervisor in the state of Missouri.

Address

The Counseling Hub, LLC
2701 W Edgewood Dr, Ste 106
Jefferson City, MO 6510

Contact Information

p | (573)207-2267
f | (573) 313-3528
e | contact@thecounselinghub.com

Hours

Admin/Ops Team | Monday - Friday: 10a - 3p
*Clinical hours are by appointment only, Sunday - Friday

We have both clinical hours, or the times when our clinical team sees clients, and admin hours, or the times when our admin team is available via call or email.