Dr. Saleena Gil 
As a professor specialising in Education and Psychology, with a particular focus on grief counselling, my academic and professional journey has been both intellectually enriching and deeply meaningful. Teaching at the postgraduate level, working with both Master’s and PhD students has allowed me to engage with complex theoretical frameworks while also addressing the profound human experiences that underpin grief, loss, and emotional resilience.
My role extends beyond the traditional boundaries of teaching. I see myself as a facilitator of critical thinking, a mentor guiding scholarly development, and a practitioner committed to bridging the gap between theory and real-world application. Grief counselling, in particular, requires not only academic rigor but also empathy, cultural sensitivity, and ethical awareness qualities I strive to cultivate in my students.
Academic Background and Foundations
My own academic journey has significantly shaped my professional identity. As a PhD student in Education at the American International Theism University, I developed a strong foundation in educational theory, research methodologies, and interdisciplinary approaches. This experience provided me with the tools to critically analyse educational systems and to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse.
Being a doctoral student myself has given me a unique perspective when teaching PhD and Master’s students. I understand the challenges they face, balancing research, professional responsibilities, and personal commitments. This empathy informs my teaching approach, allowing me to support students not only academically but also personally, as they navigate their scholarly journeys.
Teaching Philosophy and Approach
My teaching philosophy is rooted in student-centred learning, critical inquiry, and reflective practice. I believe that education should be transformative, enabling students to question assumptions, develop independent thought, and apply knowledge in meaningful ways.
In the context of grief counselling, this approach is particularly important. Students must not only understand psychological theories of grief, such as attachment theory, stages of grief, and continuing bonds but also learn how to apply these frameworks in diverse and sensitive contexts. To achieve this, I incorporate:
- Case studies and real-life scenarios to encourage practical application
- Reflective exercises to deepen self-awareness and emotional intelligence
- Research-based assignments to strengthen academic writing and critical analysis
- Interactive discussions to foster collaborative learning and diverse perspectives
By integrating these elements, I aim to create a learning environment that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally supportive.
Specialisation in Grief Counselling
Grief counselling is a complex and multifaceted field that intersects psychology, education, and human development. My work in this area focuses on helping students understand the psychological impact of loss and equipping them with the skills to support individuals experiencing grief.
Teaching this subject requires a careful balance between academic content and emotional sensitivity. Students often bring their own experiences of loss into the classroom, which can enrich discussions but also requires a safe and respectful environment. I prioritise creating such an environment, where students feel comfortable engaging with difficult topics.
Key areas I emphasise in my teaching include:
- Theoretical models of grief and bereavement
- Cultural and societal influences on grieving processes
- Ethical considerations in counselling practice
- Communication skills for supporting individuals in distress
- The role of resilience and coping mechanisms
Through this comprehensive approach, students are prepared not only to understand grief academically but also to respond to it compassionately in professional settings.
Mentorship and Student Development
Working with postgraduate students is both a responsibility and a privilege. At this level, education is not just about knowledge acquisition but about developing independent researchers and practitioners. I take an active role in mentoring my students, guiding them through their research projects, dissertations, and professional development.
I encourage my students to pursue topics they are passionate about, particularly within the field of psychology and education. By doing so, they are more likely to produce meaningful and impactful research. I also emphasise the importance of academic integrity, critical thinking, and effective communication skills that are essential for success in both academia and professional practice.
Challenges and Rewards
Teaching at the postgraduate level, especially in a field as sensitive as grief counselling, comes with its challenges. Students may struggle with the emotional demands of the subject matter, and maintaining engagement can be difficult when dealing with complex theoretical concepts.
However, these challenges are outweighed by the rewards. Seeing students grow in confidence, develop their academic voice, and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts is fulfilling. It is particularly rewarding to know that my teaching contributes to the development of professionals who will go on to support others during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Conclusion
My role as a Professor of Education and Psychology, specialising in grief counselling, is deeply aligned with my academic background and personal values. My experience as a PhD student at the American International Theism University has shaped my approach to teaching, enabling me to support my students with both expertise and empathy.
Through my work, I aim to inspire, guide, and empower students to become knowledgeable, compassionate, and reflective practitioners. In doing so, I hope to contribute not only to their individual success but also to the broader field of education and psychological support.
