Jodi Duncan – Clinical Director
Tell us about the journey that has led you to working for Healing for the Heart
I started my career in administration which I enjoyed but which didn’t scratch the itch I had to work with people. I always loved hearing people’s stories and knew I wanted to work therapeutically with them and eventually I found a way to train as a counsellor. I initially volunteered with Healing for the Heart and then moved into a paid role – a real dream fulfilled moment.
What is your specific role and who do you work with?
I’m the Clinical Director, so I have responsibility for all the therapeutic clinical work which goes on. I supervise counsellors’ therapeutic work and I see clients, along with lots of other bits and pieces.
What is your favourite film or book and why?
I love the Greta Gerwig version of Little Women and I can also quote much of My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Things that don’t require much thought and are feel good are my go to – I see so much difficulty in the world that I enjoy escaping for a wee while.
What is your favourite meal and why?
Honestly, the first thing I do in a restaurant is look at the dessert menu so I can build my dinner around that. Pudding and cake make me very happy…apple crumble, sticky toffee pudding, banoffee pie, any cake with a proper cream cheese frosting, brownies, scones with jam and clotted cream, a good empire biscuit…
Do you have a favourite memory from your time working at Healing for the Heart?
I love seeing the way clients make changes in their lives, even when it’s really hard to do so. Walking with someone through difficulties in their lives is a beautiful privilege.
What is the biggest societal issue that you would like to see changed/improved? Or an issue you see many of our service users struggling with?
I’m passionate about improving mental health and mental health access for everyone. But mental health can’t be – and shouldn’t be – dealt with in isolation. We have to look at what impacts our mental health and work with all the different things that go on for people – our living situation, our working situation, our relationships and families, our culture all impact us. We need to look at mental health in a rounded way.
Thank you for sharing Jodi!
