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Volunteering your time at a community service organisation is an excellent way to learn more about the counselling profession. It allows you to observe and assist various types of clients while assessing for yourself if you are a good fit for that type of work. It also adds to your CV or resume.
Working as a Volunteer
Many organisations offer volunteer opportunities suited to someone interested in the counselling profession. Examples might include:
- Mediation and dispute resolution centres
- Senior citizen centres
- Senior citizen home visitation and advocacy
- Youth programs and activities
- Sexual assault and domestic abuse resource centres
- Suicide organisations such as the Samaritans
Volunteer responsibilities
Every volunteer position has unique core duties, which the organisation will present to you. It is not enough to just learn the rules, though. A committed, effective volunteer will also do the following:
- Commit to and follow through on a regular schedule of availability
- Accept and welcome staff supervision and coaching
- Abide by the procedures and practices specified by the organisation
- Use appropriate counselling skills
- Understand and stay within the limitations of your training and experience
Volunteering requires dedication and commitment, but it is well worth the time and effort. You will learn a great deal about yourself and your aptitude for counselling.
