Beyond the Counselling Room

Understanding the Role of School Counsellors

Supporting student wellbeing at St Philip’s College

When we think about school counselling, we often imagine a student sitting in a quiet room, talking about their feelings or seeking support during a difficult time. While these conversations are an important part of our work, school counselling involves much more than what happens behind closed doors.

At St Philip’s College, the Counselling Team supports students' emotional, social and psychological wellbeing, helping them navigate the challenges of adolescence while developing the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

More Than Just a Conversation

Students access counselling for many different reasons. Some may be experiencing anxiety, friendship difficulties, family changes, academic pressure or challenges adjusting to boarding life. Others may simply need a safe space to reflect, understand their emotions or talk through something that feels overwhelming.

Our role is not always to provide immediate solutions. Often, it is about helping young people make sense of their experiences, recognise their strengths, develop coping strategies and build their confidence in managing challenges.

We also recognise that emotional wellbeing is closely connected to learning, relationships, behaviour and a student's sense of belonging within the school community.

Connecting Beyond the Counselling Room

We also enjoy being part of everyday school life! Whether it's joining classroom activities, attending school camps, spending time with students during recess and lunchtime, or taking part in other College events, these moments give us the opportunity to connect with students in different ways.

We love getting to know students beyond the counselling room, sharing experiences, hearing about their interests and celebrating their achievements. Building these connections is an important part of what we do, and we hope it helps students feel comfortable approaching us, whether they need support, want to share something exciting or simply stop by for a chat.

What Happens Behind the Scenes?

Much of the work undertaken by school counsellors happens beyond individual counselling sessions.

Depending on a student's needs, our work may involve collaborating with teachers and Heads of House, communicating with families, coordinating support with external mental health professionals, developing wellbeing strategies or identifying students who may require additional assistance.

We also support students in navigating friendships, developing emotional regulation skills, managing conflict and strengthening their communication and problem-solving abilities.

Sometimes, supporting one student requires collaboration between several adults, always with careful consideration of confidentiality, professional responsibilities and the student's best interests.

Student wellbeing is not something that can be supported by one person or one department alone. It is a shared responsibility across the school community.

Supporting Growth, Not Just Responding to Difficulties

Counselling is not only for students experiencing significant emotional distress.

Seeking support can also be a positive step towards developing self-awareness, resilience and emotional literacy.

Learning how to recognise emotions, establish healthy boundaries, navigate disagreements, ask for help and manage stress are valuable life skills that extend well beyond the classroom.

An important part of our work is helping students understand that asking for support is not a sign of weakness, but an opportunity for growth.

Working Together as a Community

Families, teachers, boarding staff and counsellors each see different aspects of a young person's life. By working together, we can develop a more complete understanding of their needs and provide consistent, meaningful support.

While counselling conversations are treated with appropriate confidentiality, we also work collaboratively when information needs to be shared to support a student's safety and wellbeing.

We encourage families to maintain open conversations with their children about emotional wellbeing and to reach out when they have concerns.

Every Conversation Matters

Sometimes, progress looks like a student finding the confidence to speak about something difficult. Sometimes, it is learning to pause before reacting, repairing a friendship, returning to class after a challenging moment or simply feeling more connected to school.

And sometimes, a meaningful connection begins long before a counselling session ever takes place, through a simple conversation, a shared activity or a friendly interaction during the school day.

These moments may not always be immediately visible, but they are meaningful parts of a young person's development.

Behind every counselling session, and beyond it, is a broader commitment to helping students feel heard, understood, supported and empowered.

At St Philip’s College, we believe that supporting emotional wellbeing is an essential part of education, and we value the opportunity to contribute to a school community where every student feels they belong.

How to Access Counselling Support

Students who would like to speak with a counsellor can visit Student Support reception and arrange an appointment with Renee or Carla.

Families who have concerns about their child's wellbeing are also encouraged to contact the College to discuss appropriate support.

St Philip’s College Counselling Team