Spotlight On Kelsey Broughton-Johnson - Student Counsellor

What was your previous job?

My previous student placement was at the Kōwhai Centre, a local student led counselling service. Here I saw a range of clients presentations and broadened my knowledge and counselling practice. Additionally throughout my studies I have had a part-time job as a medical receptionist for a few years now.

What prepared you for this role?

What prepared me best for this role has been a combination of work experience and my university studies which have both offered a variety of learning opportunities and experiences that have shaped my preparedness for this new role.

You’ve been here a few weeks now, how have you found it? Any surprises?

My first impression was the warm and welcoming nature of Otago Community Hospice and all the staff here. In my short time I have experienced a lot of introductions and am always greeted with a smile.

One pleasant surprise was the sense of homeliness despite OCH being a clinical facility, unlike some other health environments OCH doesn’t have a sterile feel to it. I noticed there is a real sense of manaakitanga and whanaungatanga here.

What appeals to you most about the role?

What appeals most to me about being a student counsellor at the hospice is the learning opportunities and the supportive network of staff which provides an optimal space to absorb new knowledge. Additionally I have always had a passion and interest in helping and supporting people and their whānau through grief and loss and thought the role of student counsellor would be a privilege.

What appeals to you most about working with hospice?

What appealed to me about the hospice was the collaborative and multidisciplinary approach to healthcare which is absent in other health environments and approaches. I value the holistic approach that hospice takes where it aims to consider all aspects of hauora where mental, spiritual, physical, and social health are addressed.

What other interests do you have?

Other interests I have outside my counselling students and student placement at the hospice include hobbies like art especially watercolour, walking Karetai track and St Clair, and spending time with whānau and friends. Additionally I volunteer as a first responder for St John and enjoy giving back and supporting the local community.