Career Counselling now available at Western Continuing Studies 

New service for Post-Degree Diploma students and alumni.

By Nicole Laidler 

Like many people, Ashleigh Lerch’s career path has taken a few twists and turns. Lerch began her Master of Education (MEd), Counselling Psychology, with the intention of working in grief and bereavement. But an internship in psychological services introduced her to career counselling and inspired her to change course.

Today, Lerch is the Work Integrated Learning Coordinator at Western Continuing Studies. As part of her role, she is now offering career counselling to current WCS Post-Degree Diploma students and alumni.

"Many students choose their program because they like it, but they don't know what's next."

“Many students choose their program because they like it, but they don’t know what’s next,” she says. “That’s where I can offer some support.” As a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), Lerch is able to provide psychotherapeutic career counselling to help bring about positive change in an individual’s thinking, feeling, behaviour, and social functioning within the career context.

"My approach is very flexible and open-ended."

However, she stresses that students are free to work with her on their career-related concerns without engaging in Psychotherapy.  “Whatever support students need, that’s what I’m here for,” she says. “My approach is very flexible and open-ended and their consent is always, always provided.”

Lerch says that students seek career counselling for many different reasons. Some want to explore career options, need help with their resume, or want to strengthen their interview skills. Others struggle with a lack of confidence or have difficulty identifying their professional goals. “Or there may be a mental health concern that is preventing them from moving forward,” she says.

"I like helping students achieve success, whatever that means to them."

Lerch tailors her approach to each person’s needs to help determine the best course of action. Appointments last 45 minutes and are confidential. For now, counselling is virtual, but Lerch is hopeful that the option to meet in-person will be available soon. “I take a very strengths-based and solution-focused approach,” she says. “I like helping students achieve success, whatever that means to them. I like helping them navigate the path to where they want to see themselves. And I like the celebration that you get at the end.”

Students and graduates of Western Continuing Studies Post-Degree Diploma programs can book their free career counselling appointment online here.