Ms Vanessa Samuel has worn many hats in her life: Banker, homemaker and mother, as well as educator. While working as a teacher, she realised that some children displayed hyperactive behaviour that required more support and attention than she could give.
The programme is recognised by both the Singapore Association for Counselling and the Australian Counselling Association. JCU’S resident faculty is Associate Professor Frederick Low, who is also the current president of the SAC. As part of the course, students undergo 100 hours of a practicum placement, as well as 10 hours of clinical supervision and 20 hours of counselling-related activities such as practicum report writing.
“Once, I arranged to meet Dr Carter at JCU’s campus after work, and she waited for me until 8.30pm. Despite having to catch a flight later that night, she spent time with me to discuss my assignment until 10.30pm. Just knowing that there are educators like her made all the classroom sessions worthwhile,” said Ms Samuel.