Meet Amanda - Client Support and Graduate Student

This interview originally published in our June 2022 newsletter.

Tell us about your background and what led you to joining Growth and Wellness

Oh, I would like to think that the good universe brought me to Growth and Wellness on this journey we call life! Since graduating with a BA in Psychology and Business, I have applied my knowledge of the human mind, the science of emotions and behaviourism to various roles, starting out in the corporate world. I later had unique opportunities to help facilitate positive change in the healthcare industry; one particular highlight was leading a conference series focused on ‘Accelerating Innovations for Rare Diseases’.

As I began my pivot to therapy (pursuing what I feel to be a career trajectory aligned to my passion and ‘purpose’), I knew I wanted to jump right into a position where I could learn from a diverse and supportive wellness team. Having started in my position as client intake and administrative assistant in 2021, I count my blessings as GWTC has truly introduced me to a working culture that I had not yet experienced (especially when I compare to my ‘past-life’, in the fast-paced business world!). I’m grateful to feel confidently supported as I navigate my way as a graduate student.

What is the best advice you’ve ever given or received?

Ou, this is a tricky one! As I reflect, my mind is being flooded with all the wisdom I’ve been blessed with from various outlets. My grandma’s life lessons, my mom’s constant encouragement for life-long learning, my dad’s light humour and easy-breezy approach to life, my sister’s supportive and ‘family-first’ foundation, -- along with all the personal development books I’ve indulged in, have added up to be an absolute positive influence in my life. Something that I need to remind myself often is that the only thing we can control is ourselves, especially when external pressures seem to become overwhelming. To continue my thoughts on inspirational reads, stay tuned for a blog post with some personal book insights (plus, I’m always curious as to what grabs the attention of my fellow readers)!

What is the first thing you do each day?

If I’m not including the many “snooze button” hits or resting in bed while gazing out of my window into the morning sun (when time allows), I am without a doubt on my way downstairs to start the coffee machine. Those who I work alongside in the GWTC office can attest to my love of having a beautifully stocked coffee cupboard! Of course, I have to mention my twin kitties in this interview at some point, as they are a major source of my joy at home! They will also adamantly remind me of their breakfast time.