"I've found working at St Michael's extremely rewarding"
“I’ve found working at St Michael’s extremely rewarding”
Our Counselling and Bereavement team is always here for patients, loved ones and the wider community.
Amy Watton has been a valuable member of this team having joined two years ago on placement to support her studies in counselling.
During Amy’s first year, she attended bereavement walks, offering a compassionate ear to those who had suffered loss. She also participated in “come and chat” bereavement groups.
Her final year of study meant she could volunteer as a Student Counsellor, and to achieve this she was supported by our counselling team, including Counselling and Bereavement Lead Karen Evans, and Clare Edwards, our Bereavement Services Development Officer.
“Karen and Clare supported my learning through regular CPD (Continuing Professional Development) and training sessions, supervision meetings, and being available to contact them whenever necessary,” said Amy. “Their empathic nature, passion and experience enhanced my learning and deepened my understanding of bereavement, as well as many other areas of the counselling field.”
Amy’s studies required her to complete 100 counselling hours to qualify, something she was able to complete at St Michael’s.
“I offered bereavement counselling which included family members who had lost a loved one, and those recently diagnosed,” added Amy. “Counselling is a wonderful service that patients and their loved ones can utilise at St Michael’s. It provides a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts and feelings, at a time that can feel very lonely.
“I’ve found working at St Michael’s extremely rewarding. All staff from every department have a passion for supporting their clients, and this shows through the wonderful care they give. St Michael’s just feels like an extended family, offering no end of support to those who need it.”