School Counsellors

School counsellors are experienced teachers who have a degree in psychology and post-graduate qualifications in school counselling. They work with students of all ages, and their families, from pre-school to Year 12.

School counsellors work with students, parents or carers and teachers in a variety of ways. Their work includes:

• Assessment of students experiencing difficulties with learning or displaying concerning behaviours.

• Counselling of students

-short term individual counselling and support.

-group programs that target areas such as behaviour management, social skills, emotional regulation and resilience.

-where ongoing and/or specialised counselling is required School Counsellors will refer onto external agencies.

• Assist teaching staff to:

-identify and support difficulties or disabilities that may affect learning.

-implement whole school wellbeing programs.

• Assist parents and carers to make informed decisions

• Liaise with external agencies regarding student wellbeing

Students can be referred to the school counsellor by:

• parents and carers

• the Principal

• the Learning and Support Team (LST)

If you have significant concerns about your child’s behaviour, mood, sleep, appetite, academic functioning or social functioning, speak to his or her teacher first before seeking support from the School Counsellor. If you have accessed any external services for your child, please inform the school to help us in supporting your child at school.

USEFUL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

• Raising Children Network: https://raisingchildren.net.au

• Resourcing Parents: http://resourcingparents.nsw.gov.au

• Parentline NSW: https://www.parentline.org.au