The Journey to Counselling: Why I Chose This Fulfilling Path

I could see the difference 10 minutes made. Before I was a counselor, I was drawn to people's stories. The stories were never on the surface though. They resonated in the pauses. When things slowed down at work, when the grocery line was backed up, and the tiredness in a person's eyes were more present, the long sigh, and then they would briefly open up. It was usually a phrase to share what they felt in the present moment. It can be really easy in life to stay on the surface, but these moments can be an invitation to deepen connection and really understand another's lived experience.

So I inquired, and I got curious out of care. Offering a genuine listening space can be a lifeline to those around us. I started to notice after listening to someone for 10 minutes the difference it made. The gratitude for really listening, the lightness in posture, the softening in emotion.

From there I developed a deep desire to support people, but in a much deeper way. This lead to a curiosity about understanding human behavior, mental health and emotional well-being, and a deeper commitment to learning about human psychology and the modalities that could make a more lasting impact for people. Going through the professional clinical training academically and experientially has transformed me in the best possible ways. As I have a better understanding of my own humanity, I am able to sit with genuine care with others, collaborate in their wellness journey that becomes a gradual healing process.

Being able to provide professional guidance through difficult times, and seeing the light come back to someone's life as they feel more connected to themselves as their mental and emotional health begin to restore is the heart of my work. The journey within is a path of the brave, because to seek support is not easy. But being known and experiencing our humanity in a compassionate supportive way can gently invite the light we have always longed for but didn't know how to let in can be worth the one step it takes to reach out.

If you or someone you know are in need of counselling support, I am accepting online clients. There is a booking link, and you are more than welcome to see if counselling would be a good fit for you in this season.

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Sue Olson, PCD, RTC-c

Registered with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT) #4153