In Episode 6 of the Rhodes Wellness Podcast, host Jameson Dean speaks with Vanessa de Souza (MSW, RSW), Supervisor of Life Skills Counselling at Rhodes Wellness College. Together, they explore what it’s like to train as a counsellor and how students grow through the experience.
Vanessa explains how Semester 2: Life Skills Counselling helps students move from coaching to counselling-informed practice. After learning coaching skills in Semester 1, students begin to explore deeper emotions that may arise in client sessions. They learn when to hold space and when to refer clients for additional support.
The semester begins with Basic Counselling, followed by courses like Employment Counselling, Trauma Counselling, and Addictions Counselling. These classes introduce students to key areas of practice while emphasizing empathy, ethics, and self-awareness.
Rhodes focuses on experiential learning, meaning students don’t just study theory—they practice it. During clinic weeks, they engage in mock sessions, apply feedback, and learn to document their work like professionals.
Vanessa also highlights the importance of self-care and authenticity. Students discover how to support others while maintaining emotional balance and staying true to who they are.
As Vanessa shares, “If you’re thinking about doing it, do it. You won’t regret it.”
Listen to Episode 6: What Is Counselling Training Like? with Vanessa de Souza on YouTube or Spotify
Learn more about the Life Skills Counselling Certificate and Professional Counselling Diploma.
