The Rules and The Feels: My Journey to Counselling

By Phoopinder Kaur Piara Singh

I’m a lawyer and currently the Compliance Director for a company in Kuala Lumpur. My job is to make sure the company follows all the laws, regulations, company rules, and ethical guidelines.

This includes creating and putting into action compliance programmes, checking for any rule-breaking, and figuring out ways to reduce the risk of problems. It’s a fast-paced and ever-changing environment that requires a keen eye for detail and clear communication with many different people.

Finding My Purpose

As my children grew up and the pandemic hit, I realised life is fragile and wanted to pursue something more meaningful. Taking up counselling felt like the perfect way to give back to society and make a real difference in people’s lives.

Becoming a Counsellor

In 2021, I enrolled in the Master of Counselling programme. OUM offered online classes and a flexible programme so I could study while still working full-time and being a mother to two daughters.

My parents’ support really motivated me. My whole family, especially my sister and husband, were there for me every step of the way. They always believed in me, even when things were difficult.

I also wanted my daughters, niece and nephews to see my efforts and be inspired to also chase their dreams and make a difference in the world.

It wasn’t easy, but with focus, determination and self-care, I graduated at the 27th Convocation last October with a 4.00 CGPA.

Seeing how proud my family were at my graduation made it all worth it.

How Counselling Helped My Compliance Work

Getting my master’s has made me a better Compliance Director. Here’s how:

Looking Ahead

I must say that my counselling studies have changed my perspective and given me lots of valuable new skills.

I now see compliance as a way to not just follow the rules, but also to create a work environment that’s good for everyone.

In fact, I’m interested in becoming a full-time counsellor in the future. Last November, I attended an interview with Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia and in January I got my licence, so I’m now a registered counsellor!