More About Episode Ten - The Counsellor
The Counsellor: Nurturing Young Mothers and Empowering Communication Specialists
In this week’s fab interview, we delve into the world of work through the eyes of Carolyn Twiggs, a counsellor, and her daughter Hannah, a communication specialist. Carolyn focuses on supporting pregnant teenagers and young mothers through the STEMM program at Burnside High School. STEMM, an acronym for 'Supporting Teenagers with Education, Mothering, and Mentoring', offers an alternate education program alongside mental health counselling and parenting support.
Supporting Young Mothers: The STEMM Program
Carolyn's role in the STEMM program involves providing mental health support and counseling to young pregnant teenagers and mothers. The program aims to break the generational welfare cycle, empowering these young women to pursue education and create a better future. Carolyn's work centres on helping these young mothers navigate the challenges of motherhood while addressing their mental health needs. She emphasises the importance of attachment and connection in parenting.
Becoming a Counsellor in Australia
For those aspiring to be counsellors in Australia, it's essential to pursue accredited courses in counseling or psychology. Gaining practical experience through internships or supervised placements is also crucial. Registration with a professional body like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) is typically required for practice. Continuous professional development and adherence to ethical guidelines are vital aspects of the profession.
The Power of Communication: Hannah's Role as a Communication Specialist
Hannah, working at St. Vincent's Health Australia, excels at crafting engaging messages for various stakeholders in healthcare. She stresses the importance of effective communication, especially in reaching busy healthcare professionals. Her work involves finding innovative ways to ensure messages are received and understood.
The Ingredients of a Fulfilling Job
Both Carolyn and Hannah highlight the significance of work-life balance and supportive work environments. They believe that passion points within a job and supportive colleagues greatly influence job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Nurturing and Empowering: The Impact of Their Work
Carolyn's role in the STEMM program provides young mothers with the support and guidance they need to navigate motherhood and education. By offering mental health counseling, parenting groups, and access to healthcare professionals, the program empowers these young women.
Hannah's work ensures that the voices and stories of healthcare professionals, patients, and residents are heard and understood. By crafting compelling narratives, she helps bridge the gap in healthcare communication.
The work of Carolyn and Hannah exemplifies the power of nurturing and empowering individuals in their respective fields. Aspiring counsellors in Australia should pursue accredited courses and gain practical experience. In the evolving landscape of communication, specialists like Hannah will need to adapt to new challenges and find innovative ways to engage their audience effectively.
