Posted by Lieutenant Commander Vanessa Lofton (Counselor) in CNS Office - CMO Checking In
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“I’m in need of a psych evaluation,” Sera replied with a smile, “I’ve taken care of my boarding physical, but thought it best to come before I was red-flagged.”

~Seraphina Walsh~

Vanessa gave a light laugh. “I always reach out before that happens. The higher ups get touchy about that.” She leaned back against the sofa and sipped her cocoa again.

“You’ve already had quite the career,” she noted. “What drew you to an Academy ship?”

Lt. Cmdr. Lofton - CNS

Sera took a sip of her latte, “I suppose I wanted a change of pace, albeit a slight one. I’m used to running departments with seasoned officers under me, though I do get the occasional ‘green’ ensign. I found I enjoyed teaching those younger officers how to juggle what can sometimes seem like a horribly overwhelming job. If I can coach a few more good doctors to handle the demands of the job, I think Starfleet as a whole will be better off as well.”

~Seraphina Walsh~

Vanessa nodded along, flashing a brief smile. “That does seem a worthy goal.” She sipped her cocoa, contemplating the doctor’s statement before continuing. “Do you find the job ‘horribly overwhelming’ at times?”

Sometimes the way people phrased things could lead to things they didn’t consciously realize; it varied from person to person, but it was her job to help them determine that.

Lt. Cmdr. Lofton - CNS

“When I first started, yes,” Sera replied honestly, “It took some time to figure out a balance that worked for me and I’ve seen similar struggles among newer doctors and nurses that landed in my departments. I grew up in a starfleet family, but even I found myself surprised at some of the challenges of the job when I finished at the academy. I thankfully had a supportive department head who encouraged me to find ways to cope with the demands of the job, rather than just expecting me to be able to figure it out on my own. I try to offer the same attitude to those who serve under me.”

~Seraphina Walsh~