Lisa LaRue - Career Development Practitioner

The world of work and the concept of career have always fascinated me. I also found it interesting how some people entered their careers with ease while others struggled to decide upon a career for themselves. As I researched different careers myself, I had no idea my passion and interest in careers could lead me to where I am today.

After a career in social and community services with local government where I worked as a youth worker and project assistant, I had the opportunity to join a training and employment services organisation where I worked on a government-funded career development program. In this role I supported young people transitioning from school to work or further education. This role was pivotal in my becoming a career development practitioner as it allowed me to focus my skills and training in the area of career development.

Since that time I have worked with other organisations delivering career and transition programs, in national employment services as a case manager and as a career guidance counsellor in the education sector. I now work in private practice drawing on my experience working with a wide range of client groups including students, graduates, migrants, career changers, professionals, executives, and semi-retirees.

In addition to the following formal qualifications:

• Master of Career Development
• Bachelor of Social Science (Counselling and Human Services majors)
• Diploma of Career Guidance
• Cert IV in Training & Assessment

I have undertaken a number of short courses and workshops in:

• Solution focused therapy
• Neuro-linguistic programming
• Cognitive behavioural therapy
• Narrative therapy
• Career coaching

I am a professional member of the Career Development Association of Australia (CDAA) which means I am bound by a high level of ethical standards. I am also required to demonstrate a committment to my own ongoing career development to ensure my practise remains relevant and up-to-date.