My Journey: From Foster Carer to Counsellor

A Story of Compassion, Growth, and Resilience

Introduction

Life has a way of guiding us toward paths we never imagined, often leading to profound transformation and purpose. My journey began as a foster carer, an experience that not only shaped my worldview but also paved the way for a fulfilling career as a counsellor. This is my story—a story of love, understanding, and the unwavering belief in the human capacity to heal and thrive.

Beginning the Journey as a Foster Carer

The Decision to Foster

Becoming a foster carer was not a decision I made lightly; it was born out of a deep desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable children. I had always been drawn to nurturing relationships and creating safe spaces where people could feel valued and loved. The decision became a turning point, I grew up in a fostering family, as my own parents were foster carers and this unique perspective has given me a deep and personal understanding of life in care from the viewpoint of fostered children, and the incredible impact a stable and caring environment can have on their life.

The Challenges and Rewards

Fostering came with its fair share of challenges. Many of the children who entered my home carried emotional scars, trust issues, and behavioural challenges stemming from trauma or instability. Navigating these complexities required patience, empathy, and the ability to foster emotional resilience—not just in them, but also in myself.

Despite the hurdles, the rewards were immeasurable. Witnessing these children grow, smile, and regain hope was a gift that reaffirmed my purpose every single day. The small victories—a child sleeping peacefully for the first time, opening up about their dreams, or simply laughing—became moments of profound joy and achievement.

The Transition to Counselling

Discovering a New Calling

As I delved deeper into fostering, I became acutely aware of the emotional and psychological needs of not only the children in my care but also their families, social workers, other foster carer, and even myself. This awareness ignited a passion for understanding the intricacies of human emotions and mental health. It became clear that my experience as a foster carer had equipped me with unique insights into empathy, trust-building, and resilience—qualities essential for counselling.

Training and Education

The transition was not immediate; it required deliberate effort and dedication. I pursued formal education and training to become a counsellor, immersing myself in courses on psychology, active listening, conflict resolution, and trauma-informed care. Those four years of study were enlightening, reinforcing the connection between my experiences as a carer and the professional skills required for counselling.

Building Relationships as a Counsellor

Empowering Individuals

As a counsellor, my focus shifted to empowering individuals to take charge of their healing journeys. I listen deeply, truly seeing and hearing what my clients bring to each session. I provide a supportive space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings, empowering them to decide what they need to move forward and improve their lives. The skills I developed as a foster carer—active listening, creating trust, and fostering resilience—became invaluable assets in my role as a counsellor.

Lessons Learned

If fostering taught me the power of unconditional love, counselling taught me the importance of empowering others to find their own strength. I learned that healing is not something I can give; it is a journey I can support through understanding, empathy, and encouragement.

Professional Growth

As a newly qualified counsellor, my journey is rooted in a deep commitment to ongoing learning, self-awareness, and professional development. I completed over one hundred hours of counselling as a trainee for the NHS and every client I worked with added to my understanding and growth as a practitioner, and I approach each session with openness, curiosity, and care.

I continue to develop my skills through regular supervision, training, and reflective practice, ensuring I offer ethical, effective, and person-centred support. My background in fostering and my lived experiences have shaped a rich foundation for my work, which I am dedicated to building upon as I grow professionally.

I believe that being a counsellor is a lifelong journey—one of both supporting others and continuously learning myself.

Gratitude and Growth

Looking back, I am overwhelmingly grateful for the journey I’ve undertaken. Though it was not always easy, the challenges shaped me into a more compassionate, insightful, and driven individual. Each child I fostered, each client I counselled, contributed to my own personal growth.

Conclusion

My journey from foster carer to counsellor has been shaped by resilience, compassion, and a deep belief in the strength of the human spirit. The experiences I've had—both personal and professional—inform the way I listen, understand, and support others.

Whether you’ve experienced life in care, grown up alongside those who have, or are a caregiver yourself, you don’t have to carry unresolved issues alone. Together, we can explore what’s been holding you back and begin to find a path forward—at your pace, in your own way, and with the support you deserve

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.