Roslin Macdonald, our Founder and Clinical Director at MAC Counselling and Wellbeing, is committed to transforming mental health support in Scotland. In this interview, she gives us her unique insight and reflects on her journey toward becoming a counsellor.
- Could you tell the readers what you were doing before counselling?
Before launching MAC Counselling & Wellbeing, I held a senior role at a global corporation in the pensions consultancy sector. As a client relationship manager, I gained invaluable experience in understanding diverse client needs and building trust. Leading a UK sales team enriched my perspective on collaboration and support, which ultimately honed my ability to empathise with others—a skill I now apply in my mental health practice.
- What Prompted You to Seek a Change?
Much of my career was spent managing relationships with FTSE 100 clients, but the demanding nature of the role, which involved long hours and extensive travel, took a toll on me. Despite reaching a senior position, the corporate environment became increasingly stressful. Following the end of my 12-year marriage and the death of my mother, I began to reflect on my purpose in life. These deeply personal experiences prompted me to reconnect with my original aspiration of working in a caring role, motivating me to make a meaningful impact on others' lives.
I had early dreams of becoming a nurse. However, after starting a Youth Training Scheme, I was offered a chance to pursue accountancy. Though it was a departure from my early aspirations of nursing, I look back at it now and see that it shaped my journey and demonstrates how life often leads us to unexpected paths.
- How Did You Go About It?
My journey took a pivotal turn during a difficult time when my uncle was terminally ill. Spending hours in the hospital, I noticed many older patients who had no visitors, and this profoundly affected me. It inspired me to volunteer with the NHS, where I connected with individuals nearing the end of their lives or living with dementia. Whilst fulfilling, I soon realised the need for better skills to support vulnerable individuals, which led me to enrol in a counselling skills course—a decision that marked the beginning of my transformative journey.
- How Hard Was It to Make the Change?
Balancing life as a single parent of two while working full-time and studying for two years was no walk in the park! I attended classes one weekend each month and often reflect on how I managed such a hectic schedule. My love for learning and passion for helping others kept me motivated through the difficulties.
As my training deepened, I recognised the time had come to leave my corporate job. After qualifying, I decided to leave in December 2015 and launch my new career in January 2016. With some savings and with the help of my now-husband, my business gradually took shape. Interestingly, on my last day in the corporate world, I underwent gallbladder surgery—an ironic send-off.
- What Would You Say to Others Considering a Change?
Don’t wait for a certain age to make life changes; transformation can occur at any stage, whether you’re 26 or 56. If you feel a calling to change careers or lifestyles, act on it—you won't regret it. When I recognised that my job wasn't fulfilling, I openly expressed a desire for something different. Taking risks and believing in oneself are essential steps. Often, we cling to routine for safety, but this can prevent us from pursuing true happiness. Today, I feel fulfilled in my life and consider myself fortunate.
- So, what’s next?
Over the years, I’ve gained deep insights into the challenges faced by individuals struggling with their mental health, driven by a mission to provide accessible services. I will continue to work tirelessly to advocate for high-quality, affordable mental health care. Whether it's stigma, lack of resources, or general unawareness about mental health issues, I’ll always work on breaking down barriers. Our community-focused approach is integral to MAC's ethos, positioning us as a vital support resource across Scotland.
The counsellors at MAC have been trusted by over 1,110 clients since I started the company 9 years ago. I, and the counsellors at MAC, consider it a real privilege to be able to support our clients. This demonstrates that the work we are doing is making a difference and only serves to motivate me more. It’s something that makes me very proud.
A Leader in Wellbeing
Roslin’s entrepreneurial spirit, extensive knowledge, and compassionate approach place her at the forefront of mental health support in Scotland. Her hard work and vision not only seek to transform the counselling landscape but also inspire others to pursue holistic well-being. As she continues to lead MAC Counselling and Wellbeing, the future of mental health support in the community looks promising.
