Meet a Counsellor
We caught up with Karen Philip who is a published international author on parenting, she writes for the print media, and she is a Professional Counselling Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Karen is also a recognised Speaker, Presenter and media commentator.
1.What courses did you study to become a Counsellor? And tell us a bit about your current role?
I initially undertook a Diploma. As I then had 10 years of professional experience I did a Graduate Diploma in Counselling instead of a Bachelor degree. I also undertook a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy, Certification in EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and Masters in International Family Studies. I currently work in a private office 3 days a week
2.What does a Counsellor do on a day-to day basis?
Prepare the clients’ list for the day, respond to email or phone enquiries, attend to marketing / Facebook inserts. Meet with clients as per set appointment time, listen, support and guide clients to the outcome they desire, record notes of client information provided. Take some time-out for self to walk, run, unwind or debrief with the supervisor.
3.What do you think are the skills a Counsellor should have?
- Empathy, understanding, no judgement
- It is important that a counsellor has life experience so they can understand the emotions of the client experiences.
- It is also vital any counsellor has appropriately dealt with any trauma, abuse or events to ensure they are not carrying any bias into the counselling room
4.What are your favorite things about working in the Counselling and Psychotherapy industry?
The ability to aid people to live a more comfortable, proactive and happy life by empowering them with the abilities they already possess. To enable others to obtain the outcome or goal they desire.
5.What advice would you give students aspiring to work in the Counselling and Psychotherapy industry?
Obtain as much expereince as you can before venturing out alone. Collect as many modalities to help you manage the variety of issue that you will experience from clients.
Thank You Karen, for sharing your story with training.com.au