Inonge’s passion for counselling emerged from a desire to make a difference in people’s lives. After studying pastoral leadership in Sydney and dedicating herself to supporting individuals through life’s challenges, she felt a calling to deepen her expertise. ‘Counselling felt like the right path for me to expand my ability to help others,’ she explained. Witnessing the positive impact of empathetic listening and guidance reinforced her determination to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for individuals to heal and thrive.
For Inonge, the decision to pursue a Master of Counselling at Excelsia University College, which she completed in 2022, was driven by the institution’s holistic approach to education. ‘I was drawn to Excelsia because of its strong focus on holistic education and the supportive learning environment,’ Inonge shared. Excelsia’s commitment to integrating faith with academic excellence resonated deeply, as did its emphasis on personal growth and community. ‘I wanted to be part of a community that not only valued academic achievement but also emphasised character and compassion,’ she added.
Several courses and mentors at Excelsia left a lasting impact on Inonge. ‘Subjects like Counselling Theories and Models and Relational Dynamics were instrumental in shaping my skills,’ she shared. Dr Dion Khlentzos, who taught Relational Dynamics, stood out for his passion and genuine care for students. Practical placements at a local counselling centre also gave Inonge hands-on experience, boosting her confidence to handle real-world challenges. Excelsia’s comprehensive curriculum equipped Inonge with the tools to excel in her career. ‘The emphasis on self-reflection and personal growth helped me develop self-awareness and empathy – qualities essential for a counsellor,’ she explained. Applying these skills has allowed her to make a tangible impact in the lives of her clients.
Reflecting on her time at Excelsia, Inonge describes it as ‘transformative and enriching’. Studying during the pandemic brought unique challenges, but the supportive faculty and strong sense of community made all the difference. ‘Even when classes were online, I felt heard and supported throughout my journey,’ she notes. Excelsia’s blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application allowed Inonge to develop a robust foundation in counselling. Friendships with fellow students and the encouragement of lecturers further enriched her experience. ‘The lecturers and professors were approachable and genuinely invested in every student’s success,’ she says.
For Inonge, the most rewarding part of being a counsellor is witnessing the positive transformations in her clients. ‘Seeing individuals gain clarity, build resilience and find hope brings me immense joy,’ she says. These meaningful connections fuel her passion for the profession and reaffirm her dedication to helping others. To current students and recent graduates pursuing a career in counselling, Inonge offers these words of wisdom: ‘Stay curious, open-minded and compassionate. Build strong networks and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance from mentors and peers.’ She also emphasises the importance of self-care, noting, ‘Taking care of your own mental and emotional wellbeing is crucial so that you can fully support your clients.’
Excelsia is proud to celebrate alumni like Inonge, whose dedication to their profession inspires others to follow their calling with courage and compassion. Discover how Excelsia’s Master of Counselling program can equip you with the skills, support and community to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Find out more here!
