Lisa Danso-Obeng

Lisa Danso-Obeng, a 2019 BSc Psychology graduate, is a school counsellor at Cotham School. Her journey began with a counselling course at Kent, followed by roles in education and wellbeing, leading to her current position. She values helping students feel heard and credits Kent for fostering her passion for counselling.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

In my final year at Kent, I realized that I wanted to pursue a career in counselling. To start preparing, I completed a Level 2 introductory course in counselling during my final six months at Kent and applied for a part-time Master’s program in Clinical Counselling at another university.

After graduating, I began working as a supply teacher through an agency, primarily in secondary schools, while also taking on part-time shifts as a support worker when available. In 2019, I started my Master’s program, balancing one day of studies with four days of work in the education sector.

In January 2020, I secured a more permanent role as an early years practitioner in a nursery, where I worked until November 2021. I then transitioned into a teaching assistant role at a secondary school. After six months, I was promoted to Internal Exclusion Officer within the same school. This role focused on behaviour management and helping students re-engage with their studies, which I held from April 2022 to December 2023.Having completed my Master’s, I decided to shift toward a role more aligned with counselling. I worked as a Wellbeing Counsellor for an EAP company for three months before getting into my current role as a school counsellor within a secondary school setting.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

A typical workday for me starts with arriving at work, checking my counselling schedule for the day, meet with the scheduled students for their counselling sessions, writing up my notes and sorting some administrative tasks, and doing relevant CPD reading or training if I have a spare time.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

A personal professional highlight for me has been, and continues to be, the moments when students express their appreciation for my support. Whether in my previous role as an Internal Exclusion Officer or in my current role as a School Counsellor, hearing students say that they value the help I’ve provided and the space I’ve created for them to feel heard is incredibly rewarding.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

My time at Kent played a significant role in helping me achieve my current career by providing me with the time and perspective to reflect on what I truly wanted to pursue. The supportive environment allowed me to explore my interests and take outside courses alongside my studies.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

My advice to those considering a career in counselling is to remember that it is a deeply personal journey. Embracing this will make you more resilient and open to whatever challenges may arise. To be an effective counsellor, self-awareness and vulnerability are crucial, as the path often involves intense self-exploration and sacrifices.

In addition to personal growth, I recommend looking into introductory courses offered by external organizations.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

My favourite memories from my time at Kent are the moments I spent connecting with the friends I made there. Whether it was enjoying cosy nights in with a big pizza order or the occasional nights out on campus.

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

I would make more of an effort to ask for support when I needed it. That said, not seeking help at the time ultimately led me to discover what I truly wanted to pursue as a career. I also wish I had joined some societies, as I think they play a significant role in enhancing the social and community aspect of university life.

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

Yes, I have some friends that I still keep in contact with and see since graduating.

What are your future ambitions?

My future ambitions include establishing a successful private practice. I also aspire to share my experiences and knowledge more broadly by writing books and delivering seminars or workshops to inspire and educate others.