Just mention the name Jayson Blair to the media to watch people cringe. Blair became notorious in 2003 when it was discovered news stories he had written were actually stolen from others or entirely made up. The scandal forced two top executives of the prestigious New York Times to resign.Jayson Blair's story is one of signs and symptoms that no one was in a position to put together. Did his undiagnosed bipolar disorder excuse what he did? No. He knew right from wrong. And his disgrace in the field of journalism took him from fame to obscurity in a very short time.
But this week news has surfaced about a new Jayson Blair. Psychologist Michael Oberschneider saw Blair leading a bipolar disorder support group. According to an AP report, Oberschneider "was impressed at the rapport Blair had established with members of the support group" and eventually hired him to work at Ashburn Psychological Services in Virginia - as a life coach.
Life coach? Yes, and a good one, says Oberschneider. "He can relate to patients just beautifully. Sometimes you just meet people in life who have these electric personalities. Well, Jayson is now using his talents for good."
Empathy for his clients, said Blair, is his biggest asset. With the lessons he's learned from trying to succeed the wrong way, he's now able to help people find their own right ways. His clients include people with career problems, time management troubles, bipolar and other disorders, and substance abuse issues, a problem Blair had himself.
I corresponded with Jayson Blair after the journalism scandal broke, and found him to be a pleasant and personable young man. It gives me a big smile to hear that he's found a way to be honestly successful - by helping others.
~Marcia
On the web: Jayson Blair, Certified Life Coach
Photo: Getty Images
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