My Journey Back to Education
Hello and welcome.
My name is Aoife Lenaghan.
My journey back to education: I returned to part-time education 10 years ago and completed a Level 9, Postgraduate Higher Diploma in Adult Guidance & Counselling, as this was a career I had considered for 20 years before finally taking the step! It has always felt like my calling and it continues to give me a deep sense of purpose.
Along the way, I've worked as a Community Development Worker, Youth Worker, Educational Welfare Officer and most recently an Adult Educational Guidance Counseller. My career to date has been shaped by my long standing commitment to supporting people to overcome barriers, recognise their strengths and find meaningful pathways in education, employment and life. These experiences shape how I support people today.
During my employment as an Educational Welfare Officer, I experienced that the Covid 19 pandemic seemed to bring increased anxiety and uncertainty, particularly for young people facing the challenge of returning to education. This inspired me to explore coping skills that could help them manage their anxiety, build confidence and navigate the transition back to learning.
I began researching this area to deepen my understanding and discover ways to better support young people with their mental health. This then led me to complete a Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which is widely believed to be an effective method in supporting people to cope better with their mental health challenges.
This professional diploma along with my postgraduate in Adult Guidance and Counselling Skills enables me to effectively use counselling skills and CBT tools as part of my approach. I am passionate about integrating mental health support into career guidance services, and I support both adults and young people in finding clarity and direction.
My approach is compassionate, practical, and focused on helping you move forward.
Professional Qualifications
Aoife Lenaghan's credentials reflect a deep commitment to professional excellence and holistic career development.
Level 9, Postgraduate Higher Diploma in Adult Guidance & Counselling Skills- Maynooth University:
A comprehensive qualification focusing on individual and institutional barriers, career development, adult learning, life transitions, counselling skills and personal development, recognising that adults have unique needs in lifelong learning opportunities.
Level 9, Postgraduate Higher Diploma in Youth Work & Community Development - Maynooth University:
A deeper dive into addressing inequalities in society and how individuals and communities can be supported to address barriers when accessing services. A strong focus on empowerment, inclusion and equality. A recognised and professional qualification in Youth Work & Community Development.
Level 8, Honours Degree in Social Science - University College Dublin:
Developed a broad understanding of why people and society function the way that they do, recognising the social issues that affect people’s lives. Developed research, communication and analytical skills to work with people to address individual and institutional barriers to accessing supports and services.
Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy amongst other qualifications:
Integrating Mental Health Support into my Guidance & Counselling Work.
Registered with the Institute of Guidance Counsellors.
Participation in regular supervision and ongoing continuous professional development