Sonal Siqueira – Counselling

Name: Sonal Siqueira

Course Name: Level 2 Counselling Skill

Course Type: Part-Time

Image caption: NWSLC counselling student, Sonal Siqueira
Sonal turned her life around after she was diagnosed with a medical condition that stopped her in her tracks and caused her to leave her job with the NHS. Now she is a fully qualified counsellor and therapist and has her condition under control. Struggling to understand her diagnosis, Sonal’s own experience of counselling left her feeling that more could have been done to help her come to terms with her distressing experience.
As Sonal began to manage her symptoms through a new regime of diet, exercise and meditation, she decided to enrol on a part-time course in counselling at the College’s Wigston campus. Starting at Level 2, Sonal developed a fascination with the subject and decided to continue with her studies, persevering through Level 3 and eventually achieving her Level 4 Diploma in Counselling this year.
Sonal said, “At first, I started my studies to help me come to terms with what I had been going through myself. Despite being a strong character, my diagnosis had really shaken me, and I struggled to find the right support. I got good grades and positive feedback and started to wonder if I could help others by making counselling my profession.
“I can’t recommend the College highly enough. From the team on reception, to the refectory staff, to the tutors, as well as my fellow students, everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and there is a great atmosphere. The tutors were very supportive, the library team helped me a lot, and I found the course content fascinating. You need to be prepared to really get to know yourself and face your own demons as part of this course because you can’t help others if you haven’t come to terms with your own issues first.”
Sonal had previous experience of working in a women’s refuge where she supported clients and helped them to come to terms with turbulent life experiences. Now that she has qualified, Sonal is looking for a position in a similar setting, possibly working with children, or returning to the NHS.
She said, “The counselling course at the College has really boosted my confidence and was a game-changer on the road to my recovery. I would recommend it to anyone who is considering following the same path and I am really looking forward to starting my new professional career.”

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