Wellbeing Centre

Counsellors

The College has two experienced psychotherapists (PACFA registered) who make up the Wellbeing Counselling Team. They provide assistance to students and their families for a variety of reasons.   Where appropriate they may recommend a referral to an external agency.   The College Counsellors are available to assist with issues such as:

• Behavioural concerns
• Emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, grief, personal identity, low self esteem
• Family issues, such as separation/divorce, parenting difficulties, parent-child or sibling relationships
• Peer and social issues including bullying, friendships and social skills
• Developmental and academic concerns where appropriate
• Liaising with other professionals engaged in the care of the student

The Counsellors use a range of therapeutic methods including individual, small group counselling, classroom activities and may include parent and teacher involvement.

The Counsellors have noticed  an increase in the number of students feeling anxious.  Parents recognise and report changes in behaviour in their sons which may appear as disruptions to eating/sleeping patterns, school attendance, learning, outside interests, relationships and overall happiness and ability to cope.

A low level of anxiety is normal and required to motivate us to act in certain situations. However when it becomes intense it can interfere with daily life. Learning how to identify the signs of anxiety and the skills to manage it can prevent the possible progression to depression. 

We have included the following links which may help to provide information regarding stress and anxiety in young people.

http://pdf.raisingchildren.net.au/pdf.aspx

http://parentsguide.beyondblue.org.au/#folio=1

Jenny White

Wellbeing Coordinator