Reflecting on my first five months as a Counsellor working in the community health services sector, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement. Transitioning from a career in corporate finance to this new field has been a professional shift and a journey of personal growth and fulfilment. Choosing this path was not easy, and it required a lot of time and self-reflection to figure out what truly resonated with me. However, now that I am working with clients to help them navigate the complexities of their lives, I feel a profound sense of calling and privilege to serve their needs.
One of the most significant benefits of my training in the Master’s degree in Counselling has been the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of practitioners across various mental health sectors. Each one played a crucial role in shaping my readiness for my current work. I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and leadership of the course chair of my Master’s program, Dr Peter Gill, and the support from other teaching staff while doing the course. Their support has been exceptional, and their wealth of knowledge has provided me with invaluable insights, especially in my current role as a gambling harm Counsellor.
Among the units I completed as part of the Master’s degree, the subject “Working with Systems in Counselling”, taught by the brilliant Dr Linda Chiodo, was a game-changer for me. It explored essential theories and intervention practices for working within various systems and the ecological framework. As I moved into the community health sector as a frontline health worker, the skills and knowledge I gained from this course became integral to my daily practice.
One of the most rewarding aspects of working in community practice now is the diversity among my colleagues. Many of us have transitioned from different careers, and at my organisation, we operate under an integrated model that connects all our teams through shared values, vision, and purpose. From the beginning, the curiosity, respect, and genuine care for one another and those we serve stood out to me. Despite limited resources and funding challenges, we draw on the broader health system and support each other to make a meaningful impact.
Reflecting on my journey, I aim to inspire more students to consider working in the community health sector while still training. The field needs passionate, well-prepared professionals, and in return, the industry can offer much personal and professional growth.
