ABSTRACT
I unearthed my calling as a mental health provider while stationed in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. I found myself the unofficial platoon counselor assigned to help other warzone service members work through their mental health issues. “Anyone got a problem . . . see Decker!” was the solution to a variety of challenges, usually involving emotions and crying. After returning from deployment, I realized my calling and obtained my bachelor’s degree in sociology from Arizona State. After some down-in-the-dirt clinical practice I went on to the University of Southern California for an MSW. As was my initial intention, in 2013 I joined the Veterans Administration (VA) as a medical and mental health social worker.
