Anthony Bourke

Hello

My name is tony and I am currently in my first year of the L4 therapeutic counselling course at West Herts college.

I am 51 years old and in a relationship with my partner Heidi. We have been together for 21 years and we have 3 wonderful children aged 17, 13 and 11.

Heidi and myself met at art college studying for our BA’s but we didn’t get together until after our MA’s. Heidi studied in Liverpool and I studied sculpture in London.

I had a short successful career as a sculptor which saw me completing commissions for site specific sculptures in London and Cambridge as well as private collections and exhibitions.

When the children started to arrive, I had to get a job and I now have my own small joinery company which I run with one of my 5 brothers. It kind of affords me time to do the counselling course as well as afford it.

Why do I want to be a counsellor?

I can think of a better way to give something back to society than to help others who are struggling with their mental health. I have always been interested in people and how they work and I have always been happy to listen and imagine myself in the others shoes.

I have had my own struggles with my mental health in the past as have my partner and children. I am grateful to have some knowledge of the skills and theories learnt over the last 10 years on my journey studying counselling and consider this learning as pivotal in how us as a family are hopefully succeeding in overcoming the challenges, we have all faced with our mental health issues.

I hope to be able to provide some help to others in securing a placement at your agency and wish you all the best for the future.

Thank you.