Faculty of Health Sciences

Addictions counselling alumna sees things in a new light

Glenda Watson (BHSc ’10) knew a thing or two about health sciences before entering the addictions counselling program at the University of Lethbridge. She already had two years in the community addictions program at the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies under her belt, and because she comes from a family of health-care providers, you might say that Watson has health care in her blood. What Watson didn’t know, however, was how much the addictions counseling program at U of L was going to shape her – both professionally and personally.

“The approach is completely different than anything I’d ever experienced before,” says Watson of the program. “The environment was very comfortable and supportive, and I had the sense that I was in the right place right away. Still, the atmosphere was always dynamic. There is something really unique and engaging about the program. The professors’ teaching styles really motivated me and got me thinking about counselling in a completely different way.”

Watson points to a particular aspect of the program when describing its most unique and defining attribute.

“There is a lot of emphasis placed on selfcare,” she explains. “Getting to the bottom of your own story is an essential part of being an effective counsellor, and the program really focuses on that. Clients can sense when something is off – if you aren’t genuine, they’re not going to be genuine with you. The program allowed me to delve into my own journey, which in turn made me more open, receptive, accepting and flexible, and I believe a much better counsellor overall.”

Watson was able to hold down full-time work at a local resource centre throughout her addictions counselling education, and was hired by Alberta Health Services – Corrections in January of 2011.

“The addictions counselling program provided me with an opportunity to make connections and demonstrate my abilities before I even had the degree in my hands,” Watson says. “There is great demand for trained professionals in my line of work. The program set me on a trajectory for success and employment from day one.”

Watson is currently pursuing a master’s degree majoring in counselling psychology at the U of L, and is happy to be back on campus. “It’s almost like a family,” Watson says.

“Once you’re in, you’re in. The program gives you a sense of belonging that extends well beyond the classroom.”