Example of Statement of Purpose for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Social service runs in our family. My father and mother both were engaged in serving people in whatever way they could, despite having the burden of a family to take care of. I draw inspiration from them and aim to do them proud by following in their footsteps and doing more. I have completed my undergraduate studies in social work and now, after a few years’ of working experience, I feel the time is right to undertake an advanced course and specialize in specific areas of interest to me. That brings me to this course and this university.
What I wish to study and why this program
I wish to delve deeper into topics related to counselling and psytherapy which is why I have chosen this program at this university. I joined the health management course at Riga Stradins University in Latvia but left it since I could that the quality of education was not up to the mark and that it would have been a waste of time to pursue studies at this university. Most classes were conducted online and whatever interactions were there between teachers and students in the class were of standards far below my expectations. I discontinued and returned to India after 3 months of stay in Latvia in February 2022. I have now decided to undergo this course since it is relevant to my career goals.
I do not anticipate any language or communication issues. I have completed the IELTS exam with an overall score of 6.5 bands and have scored 6 in all relevant segments such as listening, comprehension, reading, speaking and writing.
Why this university
Edith Cowan University ranks high in the global index and its faculty is highly respected. Its curriculum too incorporates advances in psychotherapy and counselling.
As per 2022 rating of Good Universities Guide, Edith Cowan University got five stars which is the highest rating for quality of teaching quality and placement of the students.
Edith Cowan University has above 31,000 students including undergraduate and postgraduate students. More than 6,000 students from 100 countries across the globe study in this global university. The university also has exchange programs with other foreign universities for research activities, consultancies and academics. I will learn from experienced and knowledgeable teachers and will get a chance to put whatever theoretical training is imparted to practical use. Its degrees are highly regarded in academic circles and in industry and graduates of Edit Cowan University face no difficulties in finding jobs since the courses impart skills and capabilities of the highest order.
Why Australia
Australia is one of the finest study destinations for Indian students. Australian universities regularly conduct admission drives in India and students have the benefit of being able to start classes without waiting for a whole year for the next academic session. Apart from this, Australian climate is much like India unlike that in Canada or Europe and the way of life is more suitable. I am sure I will learn more beyond the course and return to India truly enriched in several ways.
Experience
I worked as a counsellor at Karunya Geriatric Centre from 15th October 2018 to 3 November 2021. I interacted with people and gave them support as well as guidance to handle their different situations and psychological issues. I believe I helped them to achieve a positive attitude towards life. I joined Nicholas in April 2022 and am working here was a welfare officer. My responsibility is to ensure harmony in workplaces, address issues of employees and counsel them to achieve balance and maintain a positive approach.
Classes/projects
Projects were integral to undergraduate studies. I did one project on Women and Mental Health and another on Impact of Social Media on Youth.
My work and my academic performance led to my securing the first rank in the Bachelors of Social Work exam held in May 2018. I also obtained the Smt. Sharadha Varadarajan merit scholarship in recognition of my academic performance. I had secured the highest marks in the 2nd degree social work studies.
Leadership/community experience
My life and work are enmeshed with society and service. I have developed leadership qualities and lead from the front, by example and by actions. I was deeply touched by the plight of older people in the geriatric centre and saw that a few suffered from depression and loneliness. I organized activities to keep them busy and gave them a sense of belonging.
During the pandemic I made it a point to keep myself busy with social work, serving those who were in need of help by way of medicines, food, transport or any other need.
Values I bring to the institution
I have a deeply caring attitude and feel that the world is one large family and each one must be helpful to others. I would like to do my best at this university and justify its trust in me by selecting me as a student. It will be hard work but I will put in 100% to be a committed student and do the university proud.
Career goals and how this course will help
On my return to India after completing this course I intend to take up a middle management position in a healthcare unit or in an NGO and use my talents, experience and newly acquired skills to bring about changes and progress as well as improvements in delivery of social care. There is plenty to be done and I am sure I will have my hands full and will lead a busy, fulfilled life, thanks to this course.