Theatre alum uses foundation in creativity for healing practice
For Andrea Thring, Vancouver Island University’s Theatre program was more than an arts education – it was a launching pad for her career built on creativity, collaboration and connection. The program’s small class sizes made it safe for her to take artistic risks. Partnerships with other departments gave her opportunities to work across disciplines and participate in experimental projects.
Now owner of Andrea Thring Therapy, Andrea is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, using interdisciplinary tools to help guide people through difficult times. Thring has a master’s in counselling psychology with a specialization in drama therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and Development with a minor in Psychology from Concordia University in Montreal. She has worked internationally with individuals, couples, children and groups.
We caught up with Andrea to learn more about her journey and time at VIU.
What was your first job after graduation?
My first job was as a dancer for a Vancouver Island children’s festival in Nanaimo. They reached out to another VIU Theatre program alum, actor and dancer Naomi Boutwell, and she assembled a dance troupe. We had never been paid that much before for performing. It was very exciting for all of us!
What challenges did you face when transitioning from university to the workforce?
There is something romantic and exciting about being in a creative university program. Strong communities are built and there is always a lot of collaboration. Working in the arts outside of a university program is quite isolating and there isn’t a road map. It takes time to find your people and learn how to hustle. Some people are born into artist families with connections who know the industry, but if you aren’t one of those people, it can be very daunting.
Were there any specific skills or experiences from university that have been particularly valuable in your career?
VIU was a crash course in learning how to work with people with many different personalities. I learned how to tolerate rejection and jealousy. I also learned who I was as an actor and the reality of what casting can look like. Early on I realized I would rarely be cast as a “traditional” female lead, which hurt at first but ultimately became quite freeing.
What advice would you give to students who want to follow a similar career path?
If you are interested in the arts and recognize the powerful role creativity can play in healing and community impact, many undergraduate and graduate programs combine these interests. It’s important to seek out these programs and find people with similar passions.
I also recommend applying to programs that offer both a broad, professionally recognized degree and the opportunity to specialize in your area of interest. For example, I specialized in drama therapy at California Institute of Integral Studies while earning an MA in Counselling Psychology. Having a more widely recognized degree alongside a specialization can expand your career opportunities and increase your chances of being hired or receiving grants.
Opportunities are incredibly unpredictable, particularly in the arts. Learn how to apply for grants early on. Creative people are often B type personality so reach out to your A type friends or even hire an assistant to keep you focused. Be open to moving to different cities and find mentors who inspire you.
What was the most important lesson you learned at VIU that still impacts you today?
My education at VIU was very well-rounded. I learned how to put on a production from every perspective. In addition to acting, I learned how to stage manage, design costumes, build a set and lighting.
If you could give one piece of advice to current students, what would it be?
Look at why you are drawn to something. I love theatre because of its emotional impact on audiences and the complexity of relationships between characters. I also learned that I love collaboration and original work. These are the same qualities that drew me to psychology, drama therapy, play therapy with kids and autobiographical theatre performance. I pursued degrees in both theatre and psychology and ultimately built a career that integrates all these interests. I suggest keeping a flexible vision of what you think your career will look like. You’ll find that there will be many more open doors as a result.
What are some common mistakes young professionals make when starting their careers?
Don’t be late and always be professional. I didn’t always follow this advice and I regret it! The impression you make on people will last a long time. You never know what opportunities might be lost due to off-putting behaviour. Everyone you meet at school is a potential future boss or reference.
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