Student Wellbeing

The Benefits Of Counselling

As our students embark on a new academic year, we understand that this can bring unique challenges and opportunities for personal growth. Our College is committed to providing a supportive environment to help every student navigate this important time.

A key aspect of this is our College Counselling service, which is here to assist any student in their emotional and mental wellbeing.

What College Counselling Offers

Our service is a confidential, professional and inclusive resource for all students from Years 7 to 12, across both campuses. It is designed to provide support for a range of issues, including but not limited to:

Managing stress and academic pressures
Building self-esteem and resilience
Navigating friendships and social dynamics
Coping with family changes or personal challenges
Addressing feelings of anxiety or sadness, and many more

Our Counselling Team

We have a team of experienced and caring College Counsellors that support students at our Bentleigh East and Mentone Campuses. We are in currently recruiting a new team member for our Mentone Campus.

Bentleigh East Campus

Pooja Gupta - Monday to Thursday

Mentone Campus

Chantelle Meyers - Monday to Friday

Scott Cadby - Monday to Friday

Throughout the year, our team regularly communicates with students via email, classroom visits and by speaking at year level assemblies. To complement this, our Wellbeing Team co-hosts sessions with expert guest presenters to speak to groups of students about topical issues.

How Students Can Access Counselling

Self-referring to the Wellbeing Coordinator counselling@stbedes.catholic.edu.au
Drop-in to our Wellbeing Office at our Mentone Campus (near the Chapel gardens)
Requesting a referral from their Homeroom/Tutor Group teacher, Year Level/House Coordinator on their behalf
Requesting a referral from their Parent/Guardian on their behalf (either via counselling@stbedes.catholic.edu.au or 9582 5999)

College Counselling is tailored to each specific student and can be offered one-on-one or in a group context. Support can also last from a ‘one-off’ session to weekly/ongoing appointments.

How Families Can Support Their Sons

As parents/guardian, your role in your child’s wellbeing is invaluable. Some ways you can assist your child include:

Helping them establish a balanced routine that includes time for study, relaxation, and hobbies
Encouraging healthy sleep habits and a nutritious diet to support their overall wellbeing
Being attentive to changes in their behaviour or mood, and gently ask how they are feeling if and when you notice any changes
Promoting positive self-talk and help them set realistic goals for themselves
Modelling healthy coping strategies, such as managing stress or problem-solving constructively
Celebrating their achievements, no matter how small, to boost their confidence
Encouraging open conversations about their feelings and experiences – but accept and understand if and when they may not want to open up to you (if this is the case encourage them to seek help elsewhere)
Encouraging and reassuring them that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness
Staying informed about the services and resources the school offers

If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing or feel that they could benefit from additional support, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Year Level or House coordinator of myself. Our staff here to work in partnership with you to ensure your child’s wellbeing is prioritised.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Together, we can ensure the 2025 academic year is a positive and enriching experience for your child.

Scott Cadby, PACFA Reg. Clinical (21605)

Psychotherapist

BA (Psych) MPsychotherapyCouns

College Counsellor and Wellbeing Coordinator