Bachelor of Health Science graduate Ehlana Grigg.
Ehlana Grigg recently completed her Bachelor of Health Science, majoring in mental health and addiction. She says she chose to specialise in mental health and addiction because she was interested in working as a counsellor and saw the major as a stepping stone in that direction.
“Another factor was my personal experience of mental health, which influenced my desire to want to work with others with similar experiences. After completing my third-year placement, I have grown to love the work in mental health and addiction, particularly in rehabilitation and justice settings.”
That placement was with the Salvation Army’s Bridge Programme, which provides treatment and support for people affected by use of alcohol or other drugs. Ehlana says her study with Massey prepared her well for integrating into the addiction workforce.
“My placement gave me some clinical experience, but my theoretical learning is what really prepared me to do well at placement. Through this I was able to get some good references and applied for my role as a Case Manager. I have utilised the motivational interviewing, strengths-based model and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy skills I’ve learnt, as well as practical knowledge around the effects of alcohol and other drugs on the mind and body.
“I also appreciated the learning around working with Māori and Māori whānau, as this has been crucial to my role and helps me to feel I am providing a more equitable and culturally safe practice.”
The 24-year-old is now employed as a Case Manager with Te Whare Whakapiki Wairua, the Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment (AODT) Court.
In this role, Ehlana works with people to create treatment pathways suitable to their needs, which may involve referring them to services, providing support or brief intervention where appropriate. She works collaboratively with a team of Judges, lawyers, peer support workers, probation officers and Police to try to achieve the best outcomes for people.
Massey’s unique offering of the mental health and addiction major, coupled with recommendations from friends who had enjoyed their experience with the university, influenced Ehlana’s decision to choose Massey.
“I also wanted to study extramurally so I could change location easily and create my own study schedule to fit in work and other commitments.”
She says her third year of study was her favourite, but also the most challenging.
“I was lucky to be studying intimately with a few other students and got to work collaboratively with them towards the end. I had constant support from [Associate Professor] Andy Towers, [Senior Tutor] Phillip Brookes and Michelle Petricevich from Te Whatu Ora Te Tai Tokerau.
“Although I studied extramurally, I enjoyed connecting with peers in my final year and supporting each other as we worked our way through placement and into the workforce. We still check in with each other to see how we are doing in our new jobs.”
After living and studying in Wellington for the past two years, Ehlana has since moved back home to West Auckland.
Interested in learning more about the mental health and addiction major?
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