Minds Matter

In Week 7, we welcomed our new College Counsellor, Mrs Kimberley Greene. Kimberley is a qualified social worker, having completed a four-year Bachelor degree. Kimberley has worked in Queensland Health for almost ten years across a variety of clinical areas, including paediatrics, mental health, and emergency, and brings to us specialist knowledge in trauma, adjustment, and interpersonal relationships. 

Kimberley offers a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental approach in her work with students and their families, and is committed to maximising the wellbeing of individuals. Kimberley is interested in personal and social skill development, relationships, capacity building, and well-being strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time at the beach and learning to surf, running, and playing basketball. As a previous student of the College, Kimberley is excited to be back within our College community and to be working as part of our Pastoral Team. Kimberley will be full-time at Mount Alvernia in Term 4. 

The end of school term often comes with feelings of relief in families after a stressful exam period or a multitude of assessments due. Parents are often left with feelings of helplessness when wanting to help but unsure how. Helping our young people to cope can be as simple as really listening and validating how they are feeling and showing them you care. Adolescence can be a trying time, but worries are normal and can be overcome. Connecting with your teenager over the holiday period can bring renewed energy to the whole family. We leave you with this beautiful quote. 

“The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention … A loving silence often has far more power to heal and to connect than the most well-intentioned words.” Rachel Naomi Remen. 

We hope you all have an incredible September break, and we look forward to listening and supporting you in the final term of 2022. 

Jess and Kimberley