Bekey Burgess

When she began studying at The University of Waikato, Bekey was unsure what to expect. Having completed an undergraduate degree in psychology and sociology in Ireland, she initially felt nervous about undertaking further study. In Ireland, lectures often involved more than 200 students, which left her feeling disconnected from teaching staff.

After completing her first paper, it became clear that this programme was different. By the end of the first block course, she knew all of her fellow students by name, and the teaching staff also knew her personally. The awhi and support she received from both peers and staff continued throughout all eight papers.

One aspect of the master’s programme that stood out was the practicum papers, through which she completed 330 face-to-face counselling hours over two years. This experience ensured that narrative ways of working were embedded as a foundation of her practice.

The Working with Groups paper was particularly impactful, providing a strong understanding of effective groupwork, with skills that continue to be used in her practice today. Following graduation, she began working as a clinician at Whiria Te Tangata Wellstop in Ngā Motu. She also formed lifelong friendships during the master’s programme, which continue to provide invaluable peer support as she develops her counselling skills.