I am lucky enough to have had support offered when I needed it the most. I have also been in the position numerous times where I have been able to offer help when others have needed me. To be there when someone has needed me to help, to listen, to advice, …show more content…
I am currently studying a BA (hons) in Psychology, alongside returning to study I am a single mother to two children, I work part time and I volunteer at a local charity as a support mentor for young people living in care, helping them to make the transition to independent living.
Although difficult to manage time I am really enjoying learning and working,
I find all aspects very interesting and the challenges I am facing both motivating and empowering. I hope that studying occupational therapy will give me a greater understanding of problems individuals have, their causes, their solutions and the impacts these have while allowing me to obtain the skills I require to be successful in my chosen career path.
My first encounter into how varied the course people’s lives run was when my Nana was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Not only was it my first experience into mental health but it also showed me how dramatically one person’s life can affect other family members and friends. Playing a part in caring for her and the difficulties she faced on a daily basis gave me my first insight into the role occupational therapy plays and how much care is required by the patient and their support …show more content…
I have completed a certificate in counselling and it gave me a keen interest in to therapeutic interventions. This taught me the importance of using empathy and personal development when working with people, about different therapies available such as person centred therapies, cognitive behavioural therapies and how important counselling skills can be within therapeutic services.
As a result of my counselling course I became more aware of my own values and beliefs whilst showing respect for all persons and their values, beliefs, cultures, goals, needs and preferences. It helped me develop empathy and sensitivity towards others, essential skills that an occupational therapist requires. My personal problems and experiences made me determined to use my own experiences to help others facing similar