Student Volunteering at Harbour Therapy Clinic in Coffs Harbour.
At Harbour Therapy Clinic, we run a Volunteer Program for psychology honours students for psychology, social work, counselling and psychotherapy students, studying in the mid northern coastal region of NSW. We understand that gaining experience in mental health organisations in a regional setting can be difficult, which is why we welcome those wanting to gain first hand, real-world experience in a fully-functioning, fast-paced clinic the opportunity to gain experience. We can provide students with:
- Access to group discussions with other practitioners.
- The opportunity to undertake research projects in a well-rounded and professional setting.
- Flexibility around study schedules.
- First hand experience with current issues being researched in the area of psychology.
Volunteering at HTC in Coffs Harbour provides access to group discussions with other practitioners as well as the opportunity to undertake research projects that meet the needs of the practitioners and their client group in a real setting. The students do not engage in direct practice but with the permission of participants they are able to observe group supervision and group therapy. In the near future we will be starting a therapeutic learning group for students wanting to experience group therapy first hand as well as learn facilitation skills to take into their future practice. If you are an undergraduate, honours or post-graduate student in psychology, social work, counselling or psychotherapy and are interested in joining our volunteer program, you will need:
1. To have applied for and passed a Working with Children’s Check (WWCC) and Criminal History Check.
2. Accept the responsibility of attending weekly meetings on Wednesday mornings, and completing an assortment of tasks.
3. Have the ability to work in a group and solo.
4. Undertake administrative tasks for clinic when necessary.
5. Willingness to participate in new interventions and research projects, i.e., completing case studies and NDIS applications.
If you are interested in an application form, please download the pdf below, fill it out and follow it's instructions.
- Access to group discussions with other practitioners.
- The opportunity to undertake research projects in a well-rounded and professional setting.
- Flexibility around study schedules.
- First hand experience with current issues being researched in the area of psychology.
Volunteering at HTC in Coffs Harbour provides access to group discussions with other practitioners as well as the opportunity to undertake research projects that meet the needs of the practitioners and their client group in a real setting. The students do not engage in direct practice but with the permission of participants they are able to observe group supervision and group therapy. In the near future we will be starting a therapeutic learning group for students wanting to experience group therapy first hand as well as learn facilitation skills to take into their future practice. If you are an undergraduate, honours or post-graduate student in psychology, social work, counselling or psychotherapy and are interested in joining our volunteer program, you will need:
1. To have applied for and passed a Working with Children’s Check (WWCC) and Criminal History Check.
2. Accept the responsibility of attending weekly meetings on Wednesday mornings, and completing an assortment of tasks.
3. Have the ability to work in a group and solo.
4. Undertake administrative tasks for clinic when necessary.
5. Willingness to participate in new interventions and research projects, i.e., completing case studies and NDIS applications.
If you are interested in an application form, please download the pdf below, fill it out and follow it's instructions.
| student_application_-_htc.pdf |
Student/ Intern Profiles:
Naomi May -Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University, 2019
Naomi is originally from Sydney where she completed a Bachelor of Arts – Psychology at Macquarie University. During this time she had the opportunity to gain insight into what it is like working with people in a clinical setting through working as a Sleep Technician and a behavioural therapist. Through these roles she worked with children and families which she hopes to continue in future practice. At the beginning of 2019 she made the decision to complete her Honours year in Psychology at Southern Cross University and made the move up to Coffs Harbour where she began interning with Harbour Therapy Clinic. Her work with the clinic has given her great insight into the behind the scenes of running an innovative clinical practice that values a preventative and holistic approach to mental wellbeing.
Katie Rose -Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University, 2019
Katie completed her undergraduate degree of a Bachelor of Arts – Psychology at Macquarie University in 2017. In 2019 she moved from Sydney to Coffs Harbour to undertake a Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours at Southern Cross University. Her honours thesis this year is focusing on developing a scale to assess attitudes towards aged care. Next year she aims to begin a PhD with a focus on increasing experiences of pleasure in older adults, particularly in regards to residential aged care.
She is grateful for the experience of volunteering at HTC, which she hopes will broaden her knowledge and understanding of working within an integrated practice.
She is grateful for the experience of volunteering at HTC, which she hopes will broaden her knowledge and understanding of working within an integrated practice.
Jessica Lihou -Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University, 2019
Jessica grew up in the Bellingen Area and completed school at Coffs Harbour Senior College, before relocating to Melbourne to complete a Bachelor of Fine Art at The Victorian College of Art. She later completed her undergraduate studies in Psychology through Deakin University, during which time she gained employment as a Mental Health and Inclusion Support Worker. This highly-rewarding position afforded Jessica the privilege of working closely with a diverse cohort of individuals, where she facilitated recreational respite camps, skill-building group workshops and provided personalised one-on-one support.
Today, Jessica is an avid advocate for social inclusion and equity in the mental health sector. She has a deep interest in biobehavioural synchrony and the healing power of human social connection and is passionate about finding ways to prevent social exclusion and stigmatisation for people affected by mental health and disability issues.
In addition, Jessica is passionate about an integrative approach to wellbeing, and holds particular interest in psychophysiology, psychoneuroendocrinology and immunology. She is currently conducting her honours research into the relationship between Interoceptive Awareness, Underlying Schemas and Emotion Regulation. She is passionate about working in the field of trauma and endeavours to gain entry into a Clinical Masters program. She looks forward to working alongside talented interdisciplinary practitioners at HTC and is grateful for such a privileged opportunity.
Today, Jessica is an avid advocate for social inclusion and equity in the mental health sector. She has a deep interest in biobehavioural synchrony and the healing power of human social connection and is passionate about finding ways to prevent social exclusion and stigmatisation for people affected by mental health and disability issues.
In addition, Jessica is passionate about an integrative approach to wellbeing, and holds particular interest in psychophysiology, psychoneuroendocrinology and immunology. She is currently conducting her honours research into the relationship between Interoceptive Awareness, Underlying Schemas and Emotion Regulation. She is passionate about working in the field of trauma and endeavours to gain entry into a Clinical Masters program. She looks forward to working alongside talented interdisciplinary practitioners at HTC and is grateful for such a privileged opportunity.
Edwina Ritchie -Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University, 2019
Having completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science through the University of New England, Edwina has moved from Sydney to the sunny mid-North Coast to continue her psychology training. Edwina also has a bachelor’s degree in Adult Education and has worked in vocational education for over 20 years teaching commercial cookery, supporting students with mild intellectual disabilities and learning difficulties, supporting teachers with training and assessment as well as managing corporate relations and providing executive support.
Edwina has a keen interest in personal identity and belonging, bullying and career counselling and has completed training in mentoring high school students who are experiencing personal and educational challenges. Having worked in management roles with corporate executives she is conscious of the need for accessible interventions to help people manage stress, improve mood and increase emotional intelligence. Edwina is currently completing a research project on the impact of mindfulness on anxiety and learning as well as the relationship between heart rate variability and mindfulness meditation.
Edwina has a keen interest in personal identity and belonging, bullying and career counselling and has completed training in mentoring high school students who are experiencing personal and educational challenges. Having worked in management roles with corporate executives she is conscious of the need for accessible interventions to help people manage stress, improve mood and increase emotional intelligence. Edwina is currently completing a research project on the impact of mindfulness on anxiety and learning as well as the relationship between heart rate variability and mindfulness meditation.
Georgia Rowland-Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University, 2019
Georgia grew up in Canberra where she had her first taste of Psychology as a high school elective. From that day she was hooked and moved to Sydney to complete Bachelor of Arts- Psychology at Macquarie University, after a year abroad working as an au pair in London. While in Sydney she worked as a Vision Therapist and then as the Macquarie University Hospital Doctors in Training Assistant Manager.
Inspired by the holistic allied health model and in search of her personal legend, Georgia moved to Coffs Harbour to undertake her Honours in Psychology where she thrived and was lucky enough to take up a project in line with her passion for physical activity as a mediator for depressive symptoms. Georgia endeavours to create a safe, and kind space for everyone she meets, and thrives when working with people and helping them develop their confidence and sense of competency.
Inspired by the holistic allied health model and in search of her personal legend, Georgia moved to Coffs Harbour to undertake her Honours in Psychology where she thrived and was lucky enough to take up a project in line with her passion for physical activity as a mediator for depressive symptoms. Georgia endeavours to create a safe, and kind space for everyone she meets, and thrives when working with people and helping them develop their confidence and sense of competency.
Elise Rowland - Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2018
Elise grew up in Coffs Harbour, and after finishing her high school studies, moved to Sydney to complete a Bachelor of Science - Psychology at Macquarie University. She then took a job with one of the world's leading online education organisations, 3P Learning. Her work in the online education technology sector took her to the US from 2014-2017, where she worked in New York and San Francisco.
Elise’s love for understanding and exploring human psychology grew stronger, until she felt compelled to return to Australia in 2018 to complete her Psychology studies. Elise was lucky enough to have the opportunity to return her home town to complete her Honours program. Elise has a great fascination with yoga and ancient traditions, and is currently researching how mindfulness affects attention and mood.
Elise is most energised when working with people, and is passionate about helping others live purposefully and develop the confidence to express their authentic self in the world. Elise is looking forward to working at Harbour Therapy Clinic with the range of inspiring practitioners. Elise has a particular interest in group therapy utilising holistic and integrative approaches.
Elise grew up in Coffs Harbour, and after finishing her high school studies, moved to Sydney to complete a Bachelor of Science - Psychology at Macquarie University. She then took a job with one of the world's leading online education organisations, 3P Learning. Her work in the online education technology sector took her to the US from 2014-2017, where she worked in New York and San Francisco.
Elise’s love for understanding and exploring human psychology grew stronger, until she felt compelled to return to Australia in 2018 to complete her Psychology studies. Elise was lucky enough to have the opportunity to return her home town to complete her Honours program. Elise has a great fascination with yoga and ancient traditions, and is currently researching how mindfulness affects attention and mood.
Elise is most energised when working with people, and is passionate about helping others live purposefully and develop the confidence to express their authentic self in the world. Elise is looking forward to working at Harbour Therapy Clinic with the range of inspiring practitioners. Elise has a particular interest in group therapy utilising holistic and integrative approaches.
Jessica Ledger - Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2018
Originally from Sydney where she completed a Bachelor of Science - Psychology at Macquarie University, she has now moved to Coffs Harbour to complete her honours year at Southern Cross University. As part of her degree she is completing a research project about how exposure to media typical images can change our perceptions of the normal body size and shape.
She is grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic, and gain valuable work experience. She is also looking forward to learning about the integrative approach that Harbour Therapy Clinic provides, and how they can inform her approach to therapy in the future.
Originally from Sydney where she completed a Bachelor of Science - Psychology at Macquarie University, she has now moved to Coffs Harbour to complete her honours year at Southern Cross University. As part of her degree she is completing a research project about how exposure to media typical images can change our perceptions of the normal body size and shape.
She is grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic, and gain valuable work experience. She is also looking forward to learning about the integrative approach that Harbour Therapy Clinic provides, and how they can inform her approach to therapy in the future.
Jo Chan - Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2018
Hi! My name is Jo Chan and I’m originally from Singapore. I’ve completed my Bachelor of Science (Psychology) with University of Wollongong and I’m now studying for my Psychology Honours in Southern Cross University. As part of my honours project, I’m looking at how setting different types of goals have an influence in our learning performance.
I’m interested in learning more about the different areas and aspects of Psychology, but in the near future I hope to complete a Masters in either Clinical or Educational and Developmental Psychology where I hope to work closely with children. I would like to thank Rowena for giving me the opportunity to volunteer and gain insight on how things work in a clinical setting - which is an extremely valuable experience. I am looking forward to learning and understanding about the different therapies Harbour Therapy Clinic offer.
Hi! My name is Jo Chan and I’m originally from Singapore. I’ve completed my Bachelor of Science (Psychology) with University of Wollongong and I’m now studying for my Psychology Honours in Southern Cross University. As part of my honours project, I’m looking at how setting different types of goals have an influence in our learning performance.
I’m interested in learning more about the different areas and aspects of Psychology, but in the near future I hope to complete a Masters in either Clinical or Educational and Developmental Psychology where I hope to work closely with children. I would like to thank Rowena for giving me the opportunity to volunteer and gain insight on how things work in a clinical setting - which is an extremely valuable experience. I am looking forward to learning and understanding about the different therapies Harbour Therapy Clinic offer.
Kevin Lee - Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2018
Kevin is an aspiring Clinical Psychologist undertaking his Psychology Honours (Class of 2018) at Southern Cross University. His honours research is about how dementia is understood within the community. A mindfulness practitioner himself, Kevin is particularly interested in the mindfulness modalities within Psychology and how they integrate with psychotherapy.
Kevin feels grateful to be a part of Harbour Therapy Clinic as a student volunteer, working alongside and learning from passionate professionals in the field of psychology and holistic mental health. Kevin is looking forward to integrate the insights and skills gained from his volunteer experience in his future work as a Clinical Psychologist.
Kevin is an aspiring Clinical Psychologist undertaking his Psychology Honours (Class of 2018) at Southern Cross University. His honours research is about how dementia is understood within the community. A mindfulness practitioner himself, Kevin is particularly interested in the mindfulness modalities within Psychology and how they integrate with psychotherapy.
Kevin feels grateful to be a part of Harbour Therapy Clinic as a student volunteer, working alongside and learning from passionate professionals in the field of psychology and holistic mental health. Kevin is looking forward to integrate the insights and skills gained from his volunteer experience in his future work as a Clinical Psychologist.
Audrey Tokatlian- Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2017
Hello there! I'm Audrey, a student at Southern Cross University studying my 4th year of psychology with honours. I am originally from Sydney, where I completed my Bachelor of Science - Psychology at Macquarie University. My goal this year, outside of university, is to attain valuable experience within the field of psychology. This has brought me to The Harbour Therapy Clinic, where Rowena has kindly invited me to be a part of what will be invaluable experience involving exposure to therapy in a clinical setting as well as assisting in the development of a group therapy program. I am very grateful to be able to work with such a highly regarded professional as Rowena, and am looking forward to all I will learn from her.
My goals for the future include completing my psychologist accreditation specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, after which I'd like to study clinical hypnotherapy and utilise a combination of the two in my practice.
Hello there! I'm Audrey, a student at Southern Cross University studying my 4th year of psychology with honours. I am originally from Sydney, where I completed my Bachelor of Science - Psychology at Macquarie University. My goal this year, outside of university, is to attain valuable experience within the field of psychology. This has brought me to The Harbour Therapy Clinic, where Rowena has kindly invited me to be a part of what will be invaluable experience involving exposure to therapy in a clinical setting as well as assisting in the development of a group therapy program. I am very grateful to be able to work with such a highly regarded professional as Rowena, and am looking forward to all I will learn from her.
My goals for the future include completing my psychologist accreditation specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, after which I'd like to study clinical hypnotherapy and utilise a combination of the two in my practice.
Sally Youdale- Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2017
Hello! I’m Sally and I’m studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science with Honours at Southern Cross University this year. I completed my Bachelor of Science at Psychology at Macquarie University in Sydney, where I am originally from. Right now, I am open to learning and developing an understanding for all areas of Psychology, but in the future, I hope to one day become a Paediatric Neuropsychologist.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic, and am excited to gain practical experience and invaluable insight into Psychology in a clinical setting. I look forward to learning more regarding clinical and theoretical knowledge and practice. I also hope to make a valuable contribution during my time at Harbour Therapy Clinic.
Hello! I’m Sally and I’m studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science with Honours at Southern Cross University this year. I completed my Bachelor of Science at Psychology at Macquarie University in Sydney, where I am originally from. Right now, I am open to learning and developing an understanding for all areas of Psychology, but in the future, I hope to one day become a Paediatric Neuropsychologist.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic, and am excited to gain practical experience and invaluable insight into Psychology in a clinical setting. I look forward to learning more regarding clinical and theoretical knowledge and practice. I also hope to make a valuable contribution during my time at Harbour Therapy Clinic.
Holly Passam- Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2017
In 2016, I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Education at Macquarie University, located in Sydney, where I am originally from. This year, I have moved up to Coffs Harbour to complete my Psychology Honours at Southern Cross University, where I will be investigating the effects of training in emotion recognition on individual’s accuracy rates in detecting deception. In the future, I intend to complete my Masters-PHD in either Forensic or Clinical Psychology. I have a strong interest in understanding and working within the legal and criminal justice system, specifically with individuals who have experienced repetitive traumatic events. Over the last 2 years I have been fortunate to gain experience in my field of interest which has also lead me to develop a passion for working with individuals who are living with addiction, trauma and mental health. I believe that in either of these fields, I can make a lasting impact on both the individuals I support and the community I work in.
Volunteering at the Harbour Therapy Clinic will offer me great insight into the practitioner component of being a psychologist, as well as expand my understanding and skills in research. I am looking forward to networking and learning from experienced psychologists, specifically developing an understanding of different types of therapies (such as dialectical behavioural therapy) and observing the application of theory in practice. I hope to develop knowledge and skills that will serve me well in my future endeavour as a psychologist.
In 2016, I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Education at Macquarie University, located in Sydney, where I am originally from. This year, I have moved up to Coffs Harbour to complete my Psychology Honours at Southern Cross University, where I will be investigating the effects of training in emotion recognition on individual’s accuracy rates in detecting deception. In the future, I intend to complete my Masters-PHD in either Forensic or Clinical Psychology. I have a strong interest in understanding and working within the legal and criminal justice system, specifically with individuals who have experienced repetitive traumatic events. Over the last 2 years I have been fortunate to gain experience in my field of interest which has also lead me to develop a passion for working with individuals who are living with addiction, trauma and mental health. I believe that in either of these fields, I can make a lasting impact on both the individuals I support and the community I work in.
Volunteering at the Harbour Therapy Clinic will offer me great insight into the practitioner component of being a psychologist, as well as expand my understanding and skills in research. I am looking forward to networking and learning from experienced psychologists, specifically developing an understanding of different types of therapies (such as dialectical behavioural therapy) and observing the application of theory in practice. I hope to develop knowledge and skills that will serve me well in my future endeavour as a psychologist.
Monique Hoff- Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2017
Hi! My name is Monique Hoff, I am originally from the beautiful Mornington Peninsula in Victoria and I have moved up to Coffs Harbour to study my Bachelor of Psychology Honours year at Southern Cross University in Coffs Harbour. I currently hold a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and Forensic Science) with minors in Criminology and Security and Counter Terrorism from Swinburne University of Technology in Hawthorn, Melbourne.
I hope to complete a Masters of Forensic psychology next year in order to pursue a career as a Forensic Psychologist. My aim is to work within the Juvenile Justice System, helping young offenders get their lives back on track after finishing their sentence. My other interested include alcohol and other drug services, child protection as well as working with police and within the court system.
I decided to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic because I am passionate about creating positive change in people's lives while I am living in Coffs Harbour. I am hoping to use my experience at Harbour Therapy Clinic as an opportunity to learn about clinical practice to inform my future career in psychology. I am excited to get started at the Harbour Therapy Clinic so I can begin learning about clinical practice and further my knowledge in psychological practice.
Hi! My name is Monique Hoff, I am originally from the beautiful Mornington Peninsula in Victoria and I have moved up to Coffs Harbour to study my Bachelor of Psychology Honours year at Southern Cross University in Coffs Harbour. I currently hold a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and Forensic Science) with minors in Criminology and Security and Counter Terrorism from Swinburne University of Technology in Hawthorn, Melbourne.
I hope to complete a Masters of Forensic psychology next year in order to pursue a career as a Forensic Psychologist. My aim is to work within the Juvenile Justice System, helping young offenders get their lives back on track after finishing their sentence. My other interested include alcohol and other drug services, child protection as well as working with police and within the court system.
I decided to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic because I am passionate about creating positive change in people's lives while I am living in Coffs Harbour. I am hoping to use my experience at Harbour Therapy Clinic as an opportunity to learn about clinical practice to inform my future career in psychology. I am excited to get started at the Harbour Therapy Clinic so I can begin learning about clinical practice and further my knowledge in psychological practice.
Satveer Singh- Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2017
I'm Satveer, originally from Sydney, I moved to Coffs Harbour to complete my 4th year in Psychology. I completed my undergraduate degree at both the University of Western Sydney and the Australian College of Applied Psychology. This year has encouraged personal development and as a bonus I was invited to work for Rowena. I have a passion psychology, but a hunger for the psychodynamic theory. This experience is invaluable as I intend on applying for Clinical Masters in Psychology for the 2018 session.
This volunteer program has given me endless benefits and for that I thank Rowena. In the future, I hope to complete further training in Jungian psychology and specialise in Trauma Therapy.
I'm Satveer, originally from Sydney, I moved to Coffs Harbour to complete my 4th year in Psychology. I completed my undergraduate degree at both the University of Western Sydney and the Australian College of Applied Psychology. This year has encouraged personal development and as a bonus I was invited to work for Rowena. I have a passion psychology, but a hunger for the psychodynamic theory. This experience is invaluable as I intend on applying for Clinical Masters in Psychology for the 2018 session.
This volunteer program has given me endless benefits and for that I thank Rowena. In the future, I hope to complete further training in Jungian psychology and specialise in Trauma Therapy.
Shauna Byrne- Psychology Honours Student at Southern Cross University 2016
I am originally from Sydney but have relocated to Coffs Harbour for 2016 to complete my honours thesis in Psychology at Southern Cross University. With regards to my thesis topic, I am focusing on the motivations and attitudes of women towards cosmetic surgery, particularly labiaplasty, as an increasingly popular cosmetic surgery not only in Australia but also worldwide. I am particularly interested in the effect of preoperative psycho-education of the risks and complications involved in labiaplasty, on women's decision to undergo surgery. I will also explore the influence of gender-role ideology on the motivations of women towards this type of body modification, particularly focusing on women's identification with traditional or non-traditional female gender roles and their respective attitudes towards labiaplasty. To participate in Shauna's research click here:
Working at Harbour Therapy Clinic will provide me with skills and opportunities that undergraduate psychology students are usually unable to experience prior to completing their entire degree. Currently, in studying psychology, it has been difficult to acquire much hands- on experience within a clinic rather than a laboratory environment, particularly regarding the ways in which sessions are run and client interaction. I am looking forward to the opportunity to learn more in regards to clinical knowledge and the processes involved with implementing the theoretical knowledge and skills I have already acquired, in everyday practice.
Shauna is currently studying a Masters of Clinical Psychology at UTS. We wish her all the best.
I am originally from Sydney but have relocated to Coffs Harbour for 2016 to complete my honours thesis in Psychology at Southern Cross University. With regards to my thesis topic, I am focusing on the motivations and attitudes of women towards cosmetic surgery, particularly labiaplasty, as an increasingly popular cosmetic surgery not only in Australia but also worldwide. I am particularly interested in the effect of preoperative psycho-education of the risks and complications involved in labiaplasty, on women's decision to undergo surgery. I will also explore the influence of gender-role ideology on the motivations of women towards this type of body modification, particularly focusing on women's identification with traditional or non-traditional female gender roles and their respective attitudes towards labiaplasty. To participate in Shauna's research click here:
Working at Harbour Therapy Clinic will provide me with skills and opportunities that undergraduate psychology students are usually unable to experience prior to completing their entire degree. Currently, in studying psychology, it has been difficult to acquire much hands- on experience within a clinic rather than a laboratory environment, particularly regarding the ways in which sessions are run and client interaction. I am looking forward to the opportunity to learn more in regards to clinical knowledge and the processes involved with implementing the theoretical knowledge and skills I have already acquired, in everyday practice.
Shauna is currently studying a Masters of Clinical Psychology at UTS. We wish her all the best.
Jodi Wittenberg- Psychology student. Southern Cross University- Coffs Harbour campus. 2015
Jodi writes of her experience as a volunteer student at Harbour Therapy Clinic:
"I am in the final year of my undergraduate psychology degree at SCU. My aim is to commence my post graduate study with honours in psychology in 2016 followed by a masters degree in clinical psychology. I intend to develop a thorough understanding of complex abnormal behaviour and psychological disorders as well as the skills to provide effective treatment to my future clients.
I am particularly interested in working with clients who have been affected by trauma and anxiety, including veterans of war and defence personnel. Growing up in rural communities has also allowed me to develop a particular concern for the mental health of those residing in rural and remote Australia.
The opportunity to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic has provided me with an invaluable insight into the role of a therapist. I have been able to observe group therapy sessions, research effective models of treating clients with methamphetamine addiction and also assist in organising professional development training courses. The access to resources which are generally unavailable to students has also helped me immensely with my studies and in general I have the privilege of gaining a basic understanding of the logistics of running a professional clinic.
Each of the therapists at HTC bring their own modality of therapy to the clinic which provides a wonderful opportunity to the clients. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to experience such a variety of therapeutic diversity and to be able to learn from each of them."
Jodi graduated with first class Honours and is currently studying a Masters of Clinical Psychology at Griffith University Qld. Her research into the bystander effect in Domestic Violence won her public acclaim. We wish her all the best.
Jodi writes of her experience as a volunteer student at Harbour Therapy Clinic:
"I am in the final year of my undergraduate psychology degree at SCU. My aim is to commence my post graduate study with honours in psychology in 2016 followed by a masters degree in clinical psychology. I intend to develop a thorough understanding of complex abnormal behaviour and psychological disorders as well as the skills to provide effective treatment to my future clients.
I am particularly interested in working with clients who have been affected by trauma and anxiety, including veterans of war and defence personnel. Growing up in rural communities has also allowed me to develop a particular concern for the mental health of those residing in rural and remote Australia.
The opportunity to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic has provided me with an invaluable insight into the role of a therapist. I have been able to observe group therapy sessions, research effective models of treating clients with methamphetamine addiction and also assist in organising professional development training courses. The access to resources which are generally unavailable to students has also helped me immensely with my studies and in general I have the privilege of gaining a basic understanding of the logistics of running a professional clinic.
Each of the therapists at HTC bring their own modality of therapy to the clinic which provides a wonderful opportunity to the clients. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to experience such a variety of therapeutic diversity and to be able to learn from each of them."
Jodi graduated with first class Honours and is currently studying a Masters of Clinical Psychology at Griffith University Qld. Her research into the bystander effect in Domestic Violence won her public acclaim. We wish her all the best.
Emily Sharpe- Psychology at Southern Cross University (Hons) 2015
I am currently completing my honours in psychology at Southern Cross University In Coffs Harbour. I hope to complete a Master of Clinical Psychology next year and pursue a career as a psychologist for children and adolescents. I aspire to work with individuals with mental illness, having always been passionate about mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. I am particularly interested in working with individuals suffering from eating disorders, trauma and anxiety disorders.
I decided to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic after meeting Rowena and learning about her passion and dedication to making a difference in the lives of her clients and in the wider community of Coffs Harbour. Studying psychology as an undergraduate student provides you with very limited exposure to psychology within a clinical setting, despite a high number of students aspiring to become a clinical psychologist. Getting volunteer experience at Harbour Therapy Clinic has provided me with knowledge and skills that will assist my future career in psychology. I have been able to access a range of resources to learn more about diagnostic and treatment approaches to eating disorders, learn from the dedicated therapists at the clinic and sit in on group supervision sessions. Additionally, I have been working closely with Rowena in researching and developing a safe model for a group therapy recovery program for individuals with eating disorders. There is currently little support for eating disorder clients outside of hospital or individual therapy in rural and regional areas. We hope to start a program in Coffs Harbour that addresses this need, building a stronger support network for individuals suffering eating disorders. Harbour therapy clinic has provided me with a wider range of clinical knowledge, and has given me a greater understanding of how a clinical practice runs and provided me with some much needed practical experience.
Emily is currently studying a Masters of Clinical Psychology at UTS. She also won the university medal at SCU. We wish her all the best.
I am currently completing my honours in psychology at Southern Cross University In Coffs Harbour. I hope to complete a Master of Clinical Psychology next year and pursue a career as a psychologist for children and adolescents. I aspire to work with individuals with mental illness, having always been passionate about mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. I am particularly interested in working with individuals suffering from eating disorders, trauma and anxiety disorders.
I decided to volunteer at Harbour Therapy Clinic after meeting Rowena and learning about her passion and dedication to making a difference in the lives of her clients and in the wider community of Coffs Harbour. Studying psychology as an undergraduate student provides you with very limited exposure to psychology within a clinical setting, despite a high number of students aspiring to become a clinical psychologist. Getting volunteer experience at Harbour Therapy Clinic has provided me with knowledge and skills that will assist my future career in psychology. I have been able to access a range of resources to learn more about diagnostic and treatment approaches to eating disorders, learn from the dedicated therapists at the clinic and sit in on group supervision sessions. Additionally, I have been working closely with Rowena in researching and developing a safe model for a group therapy recovery program for individuals with eating disorders. There is currently little support for eating disorder clients outside of hospital or individual therapy in rural and regional areas. We hope to start a program in Coffs Harbour that addresses this need, building a stronger support network for individuals suffering eating disorders. Harbour therapy clinic has provided me with a wider range of clinical knowledge, and has given me a greater understanding of how a clinical practice runs and provided me with some much needed practical experience.
Emily is currently studying a Masters of Clinical Psychology at UTS. She also won the university medal at SCU. We wish her all the best.
