Applications for training potential counsellors to close soon

The closing date for the application of the Lifeline Johannesburg training course which is scheduled to start on 13 August at the organisation’s Norwood offices will close soon.

The application forms are available on the organisation’s website. Lifeline is an emotional wellness organisation that provides training to community members to either become Lifeline counsellors or enhance their interpersonal and communication skills.

The four-months training programme is divided into two modules – personal growth and self-awareness as well as counselling and interpersonal communication skills.

There are 22 sessions in total which are offered in either the morning or the evening with the odd weekend day included. The course is experiential and trainees have a lot of opportunities to practice the new skills they are learning. “We believe that you need to know yourself before you can counsel others,” explained Janet King, a facilitator.

Up to 100 people sign up for the course every year. Most people join the course either to give back to their community or to learn more about themselves.

The acquired skills can be used in any environment and have an impact on relationships in general. They currently have two intakes a year.

At the end of the course, participants can apply for a counselling internship with Lifeline, which is one year in duration for further training, guidance and mentorship if they envisage themselves as Lifeline counsellors.

According to the organisation, this course can be a life-changing experience as attested by counsellors who had been part of the course. An estate agent, Joyce Morris who wanted to do something that would involve helping other people enrolled for the course in 1984 when it was suggested to her. Today she is still involved with the organisation. “It’s been an extremely important part of my life,” she said.

She’s been a counsellor, Lifeline’s counselling manager and a facilitator – working with people on the course and she trains counsellors.

Lawyer Genevieve Junkoon, who initially enrolled for the course when she wanted to learn how to counsel her clients, said her colleagues kept telling her their deepest, darkest secrets. “My friends used to call me Aunt Edna,” she said.

“The counselling that Lifeline does is real. I’ve seen it in action, giving people their power back. It’s non-judgemental. We’re with them, wherever they are – we get in the hole with them.”

Chris Harley who signed for the course when he wanted to help people said he stayed because he was getting something out of it.

Details: Lifeline Joburg 011 728 1331 www.lifelinejhb.org.za