Judit Sebestyen

I’m originally from Hungary, and I moved to the UK in 2008. I’ve been living here ever since. For the past 10 years, I have been working hard as a self-employed cleaner. My story begins in 2024, when I became unwell, first physically, then mentally. In those days, I felt lost with no motivation or plans. After a few sessions with a peer support worker, things started to change for the better. I realised that helping people could be my new motivation.

At the time, I was looking for courses and found a Level 2 Counselling Skills course at WAES. This course stood out for me for multiple reasons. Firstly, this course suited me very well; it offered a manageable timetable, once a week on Wednesdays, and an on-site study option; that was very important to me, just as meeting new people and socialising was. Secondly, without the funding I probably wouldn’t have been able to enrol on the course. Last but not least, it was my first step on a well-needed career change, towards a goal that means a lot to me, which is helping people.

On the course, I learnt about counselling theories, such as Freud’s psychodynamic theory or Carl Rogers’ Person-Centred Therapy. We also covered basic counselling skills, such as empathy, active listening, paraphrasing and much more. I learnt about ethics, boundaries and confidentiality. I really enjoyed the role-plays, working with other learners and group discussions.

The structure of the course was mainly based on our own research with guidance from our tutor, Tracey. She was very supportive and encouraging throughout the course; we could always rely on her constructive feedback too. Alongside Counselling Skills, I had the opportunity to attend a Functional Skills English course, which helped me to improve my reading, writing and speaking in English. My tutor, Amy, was very kind and thorough. We had practice in class and also weekly homework to complete.

I think my greatest achievement was completing the course, meeting assessment deadlines and passing exams on the first attempt. I see a noticeable change in my personal growth and confidence. I never expected that I would be a nominee for the WAES Learner Award, where I received a Highly Commended certificate. It means a lot to me as it is a recognition of my hard work and progress that I am proud of.

Everything I learned during my courses helped me secure a paid role in Health and Social care sector. I found a job as a Support Worker, supporting vulnerable adults with autism and learning disabilities, before I even finished the course. Active listening, empathy, patience and understanding are a big part of my new role.

One thing I found challenging was creating PowerPoint presentations for Counselling Skills study. It was difficult at first, but with practice, I managed to do it. Another big challenge was the speaking exam for Functional Skills English. Giving a five-minute presentation was really stressful for me, but I managed my anxiety and pushed through it.

Alongside my new job, I also volunteer with Rennie Grove Hospice’s Supporting Hands team, visiting clients, supporting them, being there for them, and providing emotional support as they near the end of their lives. One thing I also learned is that sometimes people don’t need advice; they only need someone who can listen and understand them without judgement.

My message to future learners would be: Go for it! You learn so much about yourself as well as about counselling, and it can really help you grow in confidence.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou