Katie Lysakowski

Counselling Psychology master's student in the Faculty of Education

I am currently a graduate student at SFU, pursing a Masters in Counselling Psychology.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I was initially drawn to SFU based on my desires to develop both strong research and important clinical skills.

I was excited for the opportunity to work with my current thesis supervisor, Dr. Krista Socholotiuk. Dr. Socholotiuk's research background and interests are very well aligned with my own, and her extensive knowledge in research designs and methodologies has been a great benefit to my learning.

SFU's Counselling Psychology program also emphasizes clinical skill development. This program offers specific courses, a two-term clinic opportunity, and a community-based practicum in our final year. All of which will provide me with important clinical learning.

Also, Counselling Psychology students at SFU complete the program as a cohort and was attracted to the idea of working through this undertaking in a cohesive group. This design has helped shape an important community within a larger faculty and fostered a sense of connectedness for me as I undertake new learnings and challenges.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

My thesis aims to better understand how parents engage in discussions about death and grief with their bereaved children while incorporating their own sociocultural backgrounds into these family conversations.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I am thankful for the incredible support I have received from my thesis supervisor and connection with my cohort.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I was awarded a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (CGS-M) for the 2022-2023 academic year. This scholarship has helped to support my research career by allowing me to focus my energy and time towards my studies, RA work, and thesis development.