Counselling Job | What's it like being a counsellor | Job Hunting Tips

Summary

In this interview, career coach Carolyn Brown speaks with experienced counselor Ruhi Ahmed about the rewarding and challenging aspects of counseling. Ruhi discusses the importance of flexibility, learning from clients, and overcoming imposter syndrome. She shares valuable advice for aspiring counselors, including how volunteering and lived experiences can enhance career prospects. Networking, especially through LinkedIn, and reflecting on your personal journey are essential strategies to stand out in a competitive job market. Ruhi's insights offer practical guidance for finding the right job as a counselor and navigating the emotional challenges of the profession.

Takeaways

• 😀 Counseling is deeply rewarding, as it allows counselors to help clients overcome challenges and gain clarity in their lives.
• 😀 Flexibility and an open mindset are essential for counselors. Being adaptable and willing to learn from clients helps build effectiveness.
• 😀 Imposter syndrome is a common feeling for counselors, but embracing it and continuing to learn from each session helps build confidence.
• 😀 Counseling isn't about providing all the answers but rather about facilitating clients' self-discovery and helping them take charge of their own path.
• 😀 Not every client will experience immediate success in counseling, and counselors must recognize that not all approaches work for every individual.
• 😀 Volunteering in relevant roles, even unpaid, can provide valuable experience, boost confidence, and enhance your job prospects in the counseling field.
• 😀 Networking plays a critical role in job applications. Reaching out to industry professionals, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, can help uncover job opportunities.
• 😀 Sharing your personal story during interviews—why you chose counseling and how your journey shaped you—can make you stand out to potential employers.
• 😀 Networking may feel awkward at first, but it's an essential part of career development. Embrace the discomfort as it indicates growth and learning.
• 😀 Before applying for jobs, reflect on your motivation for becoming a counselor. Understand your personal journey and how it shapes your passion for helping others.

Q & A

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a counselor?

The most rewarding aspect of counseling is witnessing clients grow and feel empowered. Counselors help clients navigate their own paths to clarity and self-worth, which can be a deeply fulfilling process.

What are some challenges counselors face during their work?

Counselors often face challenges like self-doubt, especially when clients are not showing immediate progress. Imposter syndrome can also arise, and not every client will be a good fit for the counselor's style, which can be discouraging.

What skills and qualities are important for aspiring counselors to develop?

Aspiring counselors should focus on being flexible and open to learning. It's essential to adapt to each client’s needs and remain curious. Counselors must also develop strong communication skills and the ability to guide clients towards their own solutions.

How did Ruhi Ahmed gain valuable experience before becoming a counselor?

Ruhi Ahmed gained experience by volunteering in various counseling roles. Even though it was unpaid, volunteering allowed her to build her confidence and gain practical experience, which later helped her stand out when applying for jobs.

Why is networking important for aspiring counselors, especially on platforms like LinkedIn?

Networking is crucial for aspiring counselors because it opens doors to opportunities, provides insights into the industry, and helps build connections with professionals in the field. It’s an essential tool to help job seekers get noticed and find relevant opportunities.

What advice does Ruhi give to counselors who feel uncomfortable with networking?

Ruhi advises that discomfort is part of the growth process. She encourages aspiring counselors to embrace the awkwardness of networking, as it is an essential step in building connections and gaining knowledge from others in the field.

What is the significance of asking yourself 'What is it that I want, and why do I want to do this?'

This reflective question helps aspiring counselors identify their personal motivations and values, which are crucial in shaping their counseling approach. Understanding 'why' you are entering the field also makes you stand out during job interviews.

How does lived experience play a role in counseling?

Lived experience is highly valued in counseling because it provides counselors with a unique perspective. Many clients relate to counselors who have gone through similar experiences, and this can build rapport and trust. It is often explicitly asked for in job descriptions.

What impact can imposter syndrome have on counselors, and how should they manage it?

Imposter syndrome can lead to feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt, especially when things don't seem to be working with a client. Counselors should manage this by accepting that not every client will be a fit, and by focusing on their growth and learning rather than comparing themselves to others.

What strategies can aspiring counselors use to overcome the challenge of finding a job in the field?

Aspiring counselors can enhance their job search by networking, volunteering, and being proactive on professional platforms like LinkedIn. They should also seek mentorship and remain patient, as finding the right fit can take time. Building relationships in the field is often just as important as applying for jobs.