Barbara Harman has completed the Nationally recognised Diploma of Counselling with Health courses Australia in June. Our Manager Jackie spoke to Barbara regarding her inspiration, aspirations and study experience and this is what Barbara shares.
- What has inspired you to study the Diploma of Counselling?
I feel that age & life experience is what has inspired me to do a diploma of counselling. I am at an age now where I have an overwhelming urge to help others.
- Did you have to overcome any personal challenges to complete the course?
Yes, I feel that my life is so busy with working full-time, being a Lifeline crisis supporter, being a Wildlife Carer and having my own family to look after and help navigate them through their own challenges that fitting in doing the course was very hard but at the same time Health courses Australia was so supportive and so flexible that I was able to make it work with my lifestyle.
- Do you have any instances where you felt that the trainers or staff have inspired you or mentored you during the duration of the course? if so please share details
My mentor was Leonie. I found her brilliant and so supportive. Whenever I hadn’t been in contact for months. She always knew to contact me to check in. I feel the email contact from Health courses Australia on a regular basis were very supportive & comforting. Them enabling me to extend the course when I was unable to get it finished within that time period was such a relief.
- What did you find Health Courses Australia did differently to other training organisations to make your study experience easier or more rewarding?
This is the first time I have ever done a diploma or any study. I started this course at 49 years old so I don’t really have a comparison. But I will say that I found my experience Amazing with no hiccups or issues whatsoever.
- What are your future aspirations and how do you aspire to use the qualification you achieved?
In the future I hope to utilise my diploma by working part-time self-employed as a counsellor. I also do volunteer work with lifeline and Safe space. Everything I have learned while completing the diploma has given me great insight not only into myself but how to provide help to others, making me a valued part of these organisations.
Your journey is so inspiring Barbara. We are so proud of your commendable achievement and we wish you all the best for all your future aspirations. We hope many people benefit from your selfless service and we are grateful you chose to study with us to continue your humanitarian journey.
If you are interested in the Diploma of Counselling, please check out the Course Outline and speak to our friendly team. 🙂