Four Master of Education (Counselling Psychology) students awarded nationwide scholarship

Four Master of Education (Counselling Psychology) students from the ULethbridge Faculty of Education have been awarded a Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS M) award. This award aims to develop research skills and assist in the training of highly qualified personnel by supporting students who demonstrate a high standard of academic achievement.

The four students being awarded for their research and dedication are Henna Preet Hans, Taylor Allenby, Aleena Tahir and Nick Rowley. While all four students completed their undergraduate studies at other institutions, practicum flexibility, a reputation for research and the option to undertake a thesis were all factors that drew them to pursue a Master of Education at ULethbridge.

"I chose to pursue graduate studies at the University of Lethbridge because of its strong quality of education, particularly in my field of interest," says Aleena. "Additionally, the supportive community in Lethbridge fosters a person-centred learning environment, allowing for meaningful interactions and increased learning."

Motivated by a desire to further understand trauma and how competencies are developed in the discipline of psychology, Nick now looks to broaden his research with the help of the CGS-M award.

"This award will give me the means to further develop this thesis and continue with this research to better conceptualize this field along with support from my incredible supervisor, committee members, professors and cohort," says Nick. "It means I will also be able to attend more opportunities to raise awareness of this topic and advocate for the continuing competencies relating to the discipline of clinical and counselling psychology."

What does your research focus on? What do you hope your research will accomplish?

Henna: My research focuses on exploring and understanding the cultural gender role beliefs that may perpetuate cycles of domestic violence within South Asian immigrant communities in Canada. Particularly, I am interested in highlighting and empowering the perspectives of South Asian women with lived experience of domestic violence. Through this research, I hope to expand understanding and increase awareness about this issue within these communities by informing culturally sensitive and relevant mental health resources and social supports. This award will allow me to immerse myself in this research while continuing to focus on completing my graduate studies as a counsellor. 

Taylor: My research focuses on the role of extracurricular activities in promoting positive youth development. Particularly how meaningful or purposeful engagement in extracurriculars during adolescence moderates the relationship between activity participation and healthy psychological adjustment in young adulthood. I hope that my research will provide insight into how best to support young people's mental health through recreational programming.

Aleena: My research focuses on the rates of depression and anxiety in Generation Z. In particular, I am looking at different generational factors such as climate change, artificial intelligence and the economic state of Canada impact the mental health outcomes of this generation. Insight into the underlying causes of depression and anxiety from the results of this study can inform service providers, educators, institutions and program developers, as well as help guide policy decisions regarding the mental health of this generation of young adults. Additionally, understanding these stressors is crucial not only for addressing Generation Z's immediate mental health needs but also for developing long-term strategies that foster resilience and well-being in future generations.

Nick: My current thesis aims to understand how therapists perceive moral injury, a trauma-related concept that is severely misunderstood in the discipline. I am hoping this thesis will shed light on how little is known about the construct of moral injury and how vital it is for therapists to maintain and continue developing their professional competencies.

What is the most important lesson you have learned during your time as a graduate student at ULethbridge?

Henna: One of the most important lessons I've learned during my time as a graduate student at ULethbridge is how impactful relationships with peers can be in creating the graduate experience you are hoping for. I have had the privilege of learning alongside peers who continue to value my passion for mental health and support my research, while also challenging me to grow in my thinking. I am most grateful to them for such a positive learning experience.

Taylor: The most important lesson I learned as a graduate student at the University of Lethbridge was the necessity of a commitment to continuous learning to be a competent mental health practitioner.

Aleena: The most important lesson I learned during my time as a graduate student at the University of Lethbridge is not to be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Embracing new challenges can feel intimidating, but each experience, whether positive or difficult, plays a crucial role in shaping our growth. My advice to fellow students is to welcome these opportunities for learning, as they can lead to invaluable insights and personal resilience. Every step outside your comfort zone is a chance to expand your skills and understanding, so embrace it!

Nick: Do not overwhelm myself and really try to be realistic. My aspirations are areas I want to be eventually, not immediately and being realistic about what I can do in the moment is essential to my own self-care. Being in graduate studies has shown me just how valuable self-care really is and that I do not necessarily have to tackle everything on my own — I can lean on my cohort throughout the journey.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

Henna: As I work towards completing my graduate program, I plan to work as a mental health counsellor in community-based settings. I am particularly interested in working with organizations and clinics that offer accessible, inclusive services to diverse and immigrant populations. I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge I have gained in my graduate training to my direct work with these communities. I also hope to pursue doctoral training and continue my graduate research in the future. 

Taylor: After completing my degree, I plan to work as a counsellor for youth and young adults in a community-based agency and eventually complete a doctorate in counselling psychology.

Aleena: In the future, I hope to become a registered psychologist. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and promoting overall well-being. I also aim to incorporate a cultural perspective into my practice, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of those I work with. By integrating the knowledge and skills I gained during my graduate studies, I aim to provide effective, evidence-based support that respects and values cultural differences, ultimately contributing to healthier and more inclusive communities.

Nick: I aim to work in the discipline of trauma psychology after pursuing a Ph.D in clinical/counselling psychology. Eventually, I would like to work with frontline workers such as the RCMP, police, healthcare professionals (EMTs, nurses, emergency department staff) and conduct further research on the ethics of psychology and trauma.