Becoming a student… Again!
Being a student in adolescence for me was filled with excitement and anticipation. But the thought of becoming a student as an adult felt like a very different story – not as exciting, but perhaps scary and worrisome. Studying involves reading academic papers and learning concepts and theories that may sound complicated and, maybe for someone who has never studied around the science of psychology, this might feel daunting.
I also didn’t know what it would mean for me and how it will affect and change my day-to-day life and routine. On top of all this, there were essays and case studies and all sorts of assessment and reviews to think about. On the other hand, I was going to be learning something interesting and worthwhile. So, why not try and see how it goes I thought! So, after a lot of deliberation (years in my case) I filled in an application to study contemporary psychodynamic psychotherapy at The Counselling Foundation.
A new start brings some uncertainty.
I also needed time to make this decision because as an adult, I was bound to adult responsibilities, with a family and other commitments, so the re-adjustment felt bigger and complicated. But I was reminded of the saying: Where there is a will, there is a way! Well, that is true!
I began enjoying the studies right from the first seminar. The weekly reading gradually became more demanding but also more interesting. The tutor was helpful, and I felt lucky to be with a group of students that were supportive and fun to be with.
Very quickly my once-a-week day of seminars became the highlight of my week, I was looking forward to meeting my group and talking about the reading. The conversations had a feel of “group therapy” which is something I never imagined I’d be part of, but here I was, every week, anticipating them excitedly.
By the time the year came to an end, I was “hooked”. There was so much more to learn and understand. As I was already in personal therapy, I felt I was well supported by everyone around me, so I applied for the Diploma course.
When I received the offer of a place at the Diploma course, I was happy and looking forward to starting. But a new start brings some uncertainty. I would be with a new group of students, in a new location, longer hours in seminars and more responsibility, so anxiety kicked in, but not for long. When I walked in the room full of lovely people, I felt comfortable at once. After all, we were all there for the same reasons and with similar motivations and aspirations.
When I look back at these three years, hard to believe how quickly they passed, I feel very proud that I am where I am now; I have gone on to be on the post grad Advanced Diploma course.
Studying for the Diploma makes one a qualified counsellor which is a unique skill to have gained from those three years of hard work, is much bigger and very rewarding. I am so glad I chose to be a student. Again!
Author: Maria Apostolou, Advanced Diploma student
We provide a BACP accredited counselling service, however if you are in crisis, please call the Samaritans who are available 24/7 on 116 123 or call 111.