Turning adversity into opportunity

Newly graduated from the two-year Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015) course, Justin is preparing to channel his lived experience into supporting others navigating life-altering challenges.

Justin’s path to counselling began following a devastating car accident that left him with quadriplegia. At the time, he was a TAFE Queensland student in automotive mechanics, a career he was passionate about.

After his recovery, Justin sought a new direction, completing a Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation (11240NAT). This milestone not only equipped him with essential academic skills but also gave him the confidence to re-enter formal education.

“I decided to try the Adult Tertiary Preparation course during COVID as a safe and productive way to brush up on academic skills I hadn’t used since high school,” Justin shared. “It taught me how to source trustworthy information, structure my writing, and gave me the confidence to pursue further studies.”

Motivated by his experiences and a desire to give back, Justin enrolled in the Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015). His goal is to support individuals adjusting to paralysis after accidents—a journey he knows firsthand to be deeply challenging.

“Through volunteering with the Hopkins Centre, I learned the value of lived experience,” Justin said. “I realised that my own challenges could become a strength and that I could help others navigate their new reality.”

Reflecting on his studies, Justin spoke highly of the course’s impact on his personal and professional growth.

“I’ve learned to really listen and connect with people in ways I was ignorant to before,” Justin said. “Active listening and empathy are incredibly important—not just in counselling, but in everyday life. They help build rapport and healthy relationships with the people around us.”

Studying online from his home in Brisbane, Justin has excelled in his coursework. His teachers, including Terri Ashby and Julie O’Neil at TAFE Queensland’s Townsville (Pimlico) campus, have been pivotal in shaping his learning experience.

“My teachers, including Terri and Julie, have been so helpful and supportive whenever I had questions or concerns about assessments,” he said. “Their insights and experiences made it easier to understand some of the concepts within counselling. They really made me feel supported.”

Terri Ashby and Julie O’Neil praised Justin’s dedication to his studies. “Justin is a remarkable individual and has been an exceptional student throughout,” they said. “To achieve this, he completed over 600 minutes of simulated counselling video assessments and consistently delivered high-quality written work.”

“As teachers, it’s been a pleasure to watch Justin grow, incorporate feedback, and develop his skills. It’s been a privilege to be part of his learning journey, and we look forward to seeing where it takes him next.”

The Diploma of Counselling has taught Justin valuable lessons, both personal and professional.

“Everyone has unique perspectives,” Justin said. “It’s important to treat people as individuals. I’ve also learned that self-care is essential when supporting others. You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

“Studying counselling has definitely changed my perspective. Regardless of the field I work in, there will always be opportunities to support someone in need. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, a bit of empathy goes a long way.”

With his graduation on the horizon, Justin is focused on using his lived experience to help others.

“I would really like to focus on grief and rehabilitation counselling to support people with similar experiences of disability,” Justin said. “I think I could also help people with anxiety, but ultimately, I just want to help wherever I can.”

Justin’s commitment to education and his passion for supporting others have become central to his identity. He credits his cousin for reminding him of the enduring value of education.

“My older cousin shared with me that, regardless of what credentials and education we pursue, it will be valuable later down the track,” Justin said. “Self-doubt can be a big hurdle, but most things are worth giving a try—even if they feel uncomfortable at first.”

Justin’s journey exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of education. By turning adversity into an opportunity to support others, he is building a meaningful career and inspiring those around him.