Boo Maga January 2022

WLFN Post- Secondary Student Highlight: Rhandi Prystae

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University

Weytk-p! My name is Rhandi Tsuilimenik Prystae (nee Alphonse), I was raised by my great grandparents in Lillooet (Kurt Mumm; Lillian Mumm (nee Wing); Secwepemc), and I spent some of my formative years with my parents (Tom Alphonse; T’exelcemc; Rhonda Bowe; Secwepemc, T’exelcemc, Esketemc) in T’exelc or what was then called Sugar Cane. During my childhood both in Lillooet and in T’exelc, I spent every minute I could on horseback. A passion that has continued through my life and has grown in disciplines and in horse breed variation. I am currently fortunate and tremendously grateful for the opportunity that the Williams Lake Band has permitted; allowing me to be a full-time student now and in the completion of my undergraduate degree in the past. I am studying at Yorkville University which offers online study. This has allowed me to continue working part-time while I complete a master’s degree in counselling psychology. I have had to let my horses go while I study but I still find time to hike, mountain bike, cross country ski, snowshoe, paddle board and practice yoga with the seasons. I currently reside in Tk’emlups with my husband Travis. We are looking forward to trying out the new trails at T’exelc! I chose psychology and more specifically counselling psychology as a program for a few reasons. The field of counselling psychology has been instrumental in assisting me through many challenging times in my life. I truly can say I’m not sure where I would have been without skilled counselling after the loss of my grandparents, and sister. It is common for people to experience grief, loss, anxiety, and trauma more than once in their lifetime. If we do not find ways to heal those experiences they can accumulate, and life can become more difficult than is necessary. I chose the master’s degree in counselling psychology through Yorkville University specifically as it is recognized by the Canadian Counselling Psychotherapy Association, allowing me to practice anywhere in Canada as a Psychotherapist. Ultimately, I hope in the future to share my knowledge and help people on their own healing journey. Thank you for taking the time to hear about a piece of my journey, and a big thank you again to the Williams Lake Band and Education Department for their support.