Kyle Karalash | Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies

Kyle Karalash

Kyle Karalash

2017 MSc Couples & Family Therapy
Research Area: 
Family Therapy, LGBTQ+

Advice for Prospective Grad Students...

If you’re looking to study closely with academic advisors and to build strong connections, Guelph is great for that. There is plenty of opportunity for financial assistance, so don't let that worry take too much control - ask questions and someone will be happy to help locate resources. 

Program

2017 Graduate – Couple and Family Therapy, field within Family Relations & Applied Nutrition

Why I Chose Guelph… 

This was pretty much the best option for the field that I hope to work in; with the clinical training and the coursework, it provided the most experiential learning and gave me an opportunity to really make a difference in my own life and the lives of my clients. I feel that I would not be as prepared to join the profession had I gone into a different program elsewhere. 

About My Advisor… 

I had a great connection with all of my advisors. Our relationships were open and supportive - they were always around with resources, support, feedback and general conversations. They were especially helpful when you relocated from further away, because they always made sure to check in with how I was doing. 

About the City of Guelph… 

Guelph has incredible architecture. I also like that it has the small town vibe, which provides a sense of familiarity for me. It was a very welcoming community, yet still allowed me to have my own space. 

Being a Graduate Student at Guelph… 

It is tiring. There is a lot of work to be done – there will be the typical homework, client work, our research, plus preparing and planning for what is next. I definitely had no trouble keeping busy. It was rewarding and I learned a lot about myself and my field. 

My Future Plans… 

I hope to work in an agency to continue gaining experience with client work, and to work on building my own practice at the same time. I plan to eventually establish an LGBTQ+ affirming therapy centre, and to facilitate workshops that build more competence in working professionals working with diverse clients. This program really enhanced my desire to carry out my goal - and the experience has definitely set me on the right path. 

About Campus… 

There is a lot to see. The campus feels big at first, so there are some neat "adventures" if you like to walk. There is also always something interesting going on. People are friendly enough to help with directions if you are lost. 

About My Program… 

My program had only eight people per cohort, so the learning was intimate and discussions were very deep and fulfilling. The idea of being a part of something bigger than just schoolwork. Opening minds, creating change.