Last year, June 2008, I attended and presented at the Inaugural Asia Pacific Counseling Conference in Hong Kong
There I met Professor Dr. Catherine Sun, Head of the department of counselling and Psychology of the Hong Kong Shue Yan University. Catherine also is the president of the newly set up Asia Pacific Rim confederation of Counsellors as well as president of the Asian Professional Counseling Association. She has been working tiredlessly for many years in this field and published over 30 books related to culture, counseling and community.
Catherine invited Dr. Sue Marsden and myself to conduct a 2 day workshop called "Hope and Care for the Soul in the Helping Professions".
The participants were trained in many different disciplines, some coming from the medical field, some fresh out of Counselling training and Psychology training and others who had been working in the field of social work and counselling for a long time. I have so appreciated the input and expertise shared by this group, I feel I have learned much more about Chinese culture and approach to the field of counselling and I thank every one who attended for their enthousiasm and input. A special thanks also for the stories and insigths of those who worked voluntary in the aftermath of the disastrous earthquake in Sichuan. The stories of resilience and courage are heartwarming!
With many thanks to the supporters and sponsors of this workshop: the Asian Professional Counselling Association, The Methodist Centre, The Praying Hearts Counselling Centre and the Shue Yan University.
And of course to Catherine, who so generously gave this opportunity. I do hope we will meet again!