Navigating Identity Transition from Counsellor-to-Counsellor Educator: Challenges and Opportunities

Rosina E. Mete; Cindi Saj

doi:10.82396/cjcd.v25i1.3262

Authors

Rosina E. Mete Yorkville University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7292-9079
Cindi Saj Yorkville University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.82396/cjcd.v25i1.3262

Keywords:

counsellor education, Canada, identity, career planning, transformation, regulation, accreditation

Abstract

There is a lack of discussion and research on counsellor educators in Canada. With an estimated number of 228 to 304 counsellor educators across the country, examining the transition from counsellor to counsellor educator is relevant to developing a career identity and to strengthening the field. This article explores the complex transition from practicing counsellor to counsellor educator within the Canadian context, emphasizing the importance of professional identity transformation amidst evolving regulatory and accreditation landscapes. This conceptual article highlights role differences between counsellors and counsellor educators. Additionally, it provides considerations for counsellors who are interested in becoming counsellor educators. It discusses the unique challenges faced during this shift, including managing dual roles, bridging the research-practice gap and navigating role expectations. The authors highlight the distinctions between clinical practice and educational responsibilities, underscoring the need for new skills, self-reflection, and ongoing professional development. Practical strategies, such as the REP model of Reflect, Examples, Prepare and the development of a personal teaching philosophy, are proposed to support prospective counsellor educators in their preparation process. The article concludes by emphasizing the vital role of counsellor educators in shaping culturally competent, ethically grounded future practitioners and advocates for thorough self-reflection and strategic preparation to ensure successful transitions into academia.

Author Biographies

Rosina E. Mete, Yorkville University

Dr. Rosina Mete is the Director of Scholarly and Mental Health Initiatives at Yorkville University. She is a Registered Psychotherapist (Ontario) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Dr. Mete originally joined Yorkville University in 2022 as the Course Lead for Assessment. Before joining the Yorkville team, she worked in community health, hospital, academic, and private practice settings. She also has experience as an adjunct professor at other educational institutions. Dr. Mete has won awards for her academic and clinical work. Her research and publications include equity and access to mental health care, stress management, social support, workplace mental health, problem-solving and decision-making, and technology in education. Her recent accomplishments include publishing her dissertation research regarding the impact of social support on emotional wellbeing among a chronically ill (COPD) population in an Ivy League academic journal. Dr. Mete is the President for the CCPA Counsellor Educator & Supervisors Chapter and a Board Member with the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP). Her educational credentials include a BSc in Psychology from Carleton University, a MSc in Clinical Mental Health Counselling and a PhD in Leadership and Policy both from Niagara University.

Cindi Saj, Yorkville University

Dr. Cindi Saj is a full-time faculty member in the Masters of Counselling Psychology program at Yorkville University. Dr. Saj is a full practising member with the British Columbia College of Social Workers with a professional designation in clinical counselling. Her academic training includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Criminology and Social Work, a master’s degree in Social Work (with a clinical stream) and a doctoral degree from the University of Manitoba. Dr. Saj’s doctoral research focused broadly on stress and conflict in practice, burnout within the helping profession and exploring coping strategies and self-care. She has declared competencies in clinical and counselling areas with children and adolescents, with some experience working with adults and families. Dr Saj is the Clinical Director of an Indigenous delegated agency and leads a team of child and youth mental health counsellors. Dr. Saj’s background extends from working as a clinical social worker and mental health counsellor within the Canadian Criminal Justice System and Ministry of Children and Family Development in Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia.

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