Interview with a Counsellor: Josh Dempsey

How do you go about deciding if a counsellor is the right fit for you? Sometimes it can be as simple as having something in common. In this interview, get to know Josh Dempsey – one of our counsellors at Steadfast offering online client sessions.

[Steadfast] What did you do before you started your career in counselling?

[Josh] I came from a background in IT. I ran a couple of teams that were essentially the support for all of the inanimate objects that offices have come to rely on. After the always humorous, “Did you turn it off and on again?” line, my team would be dispatched to make it work. Sometimes we would have to make technology work under the glare of hundreds of people who were in person, with video running to thousands across the world. My IT team was there to help with the anxiety and stress of the meeting organizer. Before IT, I was in sales, and before that, a chef! Being in a role of support is something I enjoy that comes naturally to me.

[Steadfast] We heard that you love video games. Do you have a favourite?

[Josh] I was brought into gaming when your only option was a dot bouncing between paddles on either side of the screen. My first at-home system was an Apple 2e, a mild step up for the 2-paddle game. As an adult, I started to lean towards Sony and the PS library. As for my favourite game, I really cannot say. The God of War and Uncharted series have been ones I can drop into almost anytime. They offer deep and intriguing historical storylines, mixed with amazing visuals and thought-provoking puzzles. I used to love the Tony Hawk games many years ago and am happy to again have them in my PS library for all the memories they evoke from my youth. Be it the moves I tried so hard to learn, both in-game and in real life, or the music I still enjoy cranking the stereo up for.

[Steadfast] Does your love of gaming extend to the world of board games?

[Josh] My family and I enjoy playing Sequence (Regular or Kids’ editions), Clue, Life, as well an assortment of card games. We also enjoy Heads Up, for when we’re out and about, or simply have a few minutes to enjoy some fun.

[Steadfast] Sequence is a great game. What else would people want to know about you?

[Josh] I am also a Certified Laughter Yoga Instructor, having been certified in 2021. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work with Calgary Neighbourhoods and a couple of local agencies for seniors and those with special needs. It is an amazing experience to bring such physiological and psychological benefits to everyone through a universal medium, such as laughter.

[Steadfast] Amazing! Would you share with us why you decided to pursue a career in counselling?

[Josh] I saw first-hand, through my partner (Steadfast Counsellor Melody Hazelton), how this profession can truly help people who are in pain, struggling, or unsure of how they are going to get through the day. I knew that this is where I needed to be, to be the best support to my community. I want to be there for those who need help, those unaware of how to do so, or those who were in any way discouraged to do so.

[Steadfast] We are lucky to have you on the team, Josh. Thanks for sharing!

Josh Dempsey offers online counselling sessions in British Columbia. Therapy sessions with Josh are available for individuals, couples and teens (14+).