Ep 104 - Becoming a Counsellor: Tamara’s Journey from a Bachelor of Arts to a Master of Counselling at Deakin University
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Episode summary:
In this episode of Course and Career Chat, I talk with Tamara, who is currently studying a Master of Counselling at Deakin University. She shares her journey from completing a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Psychology and History) to discovering her passion for supporting others through counselling.
We discuss what it’s really like to study counselling at postgraduate level, the difference between counselling and psychology, and the career opportunities available after a Master of Counselling in Australia.
If you’re thinking about a career change into counselling, or wondering how to become a counsellor in Australia, this episode will give you a realistic and inspiring insight.
⏱️ Episode breakdown
4:50 – Tamara’s high school experience and early career interests
Tamara shares how her love of Psychology and History in VCE shaped her future study choices and how Humanities subjects can lead to meaningful careers.
9:40 – Why she chose a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and History)
Tamara explains how a Bachelor of Arts gave her flexibility to explore psychology, teaching, and criminal psychology before deciding on her path.
13:48 – Honours in History: research and learning
She dives into her Honours year, focusing on Indigenous Australian History and Holocaust/Genocide studies, and how her research skills built a foundation for later study.
16:54 – First full-time role and transferable skills
Tamara’s admin work at a mission organisation helped her apply what she learned about people and culture — a reminder that “nothing you learn is ever wasted.”
19:30 – Studying the Master of Counselling at Deakin University
We unpack what it’s like to study the Master of Counselling at Deakin, the subjects covered, and placement experiences that led to Tamara’s current counselling role.
Tamara also explains the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist, helping you decide which path might suit you best.