After serving on the board of SB-CAMFT for a few years, I took a sabbatical from attending the monthly luncheons. When I ran into Russ Collins at Antioch recently, he encouraged me to “join again,” and I decided to attend the December 2008 luncheon in honor of Violet Oaklander. Then I knew my sabbatical was up.

I had been reading articles about Creating Community Pathways (CCP) in the newsletter and found the concept intriguing. I had the opportunity at the luncheon to sit next to Eugenia Hoyne, who had been participating with the group for a few months. She was enthusiastic about the group and again I was kindly encouraged to come to the CCP meeting.

The first meeting I attended was held at Madelyn Swed’s home. I had no idea what to expect other than a pot-luck meal. After sharing, eating and talking, Kathleen Barry opened the meeting with a beautiful poem. There was discussion about expanding community connections, and having areas each member could focus on based on their passion. I was inspired by the conversation about a group of mental health professionals from Germany who were hosting an international conference call to engage in discussions about transforming the field of psychotherapy and psychiatry. I began to see beyond my imagination as the possibilities are endless. I was both intrigued and mesmerized by the discussion. I didn’t want to talk, I just wanted to listen. I realized these are highly active individuals who embrace a collective vision. It began to stir in me excitement, renewal and hope.

Over the years, I have worked in a variety of settings including child welfare services, residential treatment for abused children, domestic violence, pregnant and parenting teens, adoptions, teaching, and private practice. These experiences have helped me grow both personally and professionally. I have immense gratitude for those opportunities where there is a need or idea and I can co-create a vision and watch it unfold. I see this as part of the CCP experience.

One of my goals this year is to reach out on in a different way within the community. I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect and be part of a transformative process, Creating Community Pathways.

Michelle Villegas is an LCSW in private practice and is a Santa Barbara school based-counselor. She teaches family therapy, psychotherapy with children and child abuse at Antioch University.