Melanie Rink (assistant teacher)

What inspires you to be an assistant teacher?
I am inspired to become an assistant teacher because I know first-hand how transformative the counselling journey can be. During my training at the ACC, the guidance and encouragement I received gave me confidence and shaped the counsellor I am today. Having the chance to support first-year students now feels like a natural way to give back and contribute to the same supportive learning environment that helped me so much.

I have always loved helping people, which lies at the heart of both my counselling work and my interest in teaching. My approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and meeting people where they are. In the classroom, I hope to bring these same values to life by creating a safe and encouraging space where students feel free to explore, ask questions, and grow with confidence.

This role also offers me the chance to continue developing as a counsellor. Working alongside teachers and students will give me new perspectives and experiences that will enrich my practice and support my own personal and professional growth.

About me
I was born in Wales and have since lived in Australia, Germany, and now the Netherlands, which I’ve called home for many years. Moving between cultures has taught me a lot about resilience, adaptation, and what it means to truly find your place in the world.

Before training as a counsellor, I spent several years raising my son, a time that taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of really listening. I also supported my husband in running his consultancy business, which gave me valuable experience in problem-solving and balancing the demands of family and work life.

Living in Australia was especially influential for me. It was there that I discovered a passion for mindfulness, self-growth, and the body–mind connection, ideas that continue to shape the way I live and work today.

I’ve always loved helping people grow, and I believe that with compassion, curiosity, and the right support, we can all move through challenges and come out stronger. As part of the teaching faculty, I hope to share not only my knowledge, but also my lived experiences, to inspire and support others on their own journeys.

Why have you chosen the ACC and what did the training bring you?
I chose the ACC because it offered everything I was looking for in a counselling training course. The fact that the program was taught in English and in person made it especially appealing, as it gave me the chance to connect with people face-to-face while studying in an international environment.

The training brought me not only valuable knowledge and techniques but also the opportunity to grow in confidence, develop my counselling style, and discover my strengths. It really shaped the way I work with clients today, with empathy, curiosity, and a flexible approach that adapts to each individual. I also met inspiring teachers and fellow students, many of whom have become an important part of my professional and personal journey.

Who is my hero and why?
I don’t have a hero. “My heroes are the people I meet who have the courage to face their struggles and keep moving forward. Their strength and resilience inspire me every day.”