Wellbeing

Hi, my name is Emily. I am a new student counsellor in the Wellbeing Team.

Here is a bit of insight into my background: I have a Bachelor of Health Sciences (psychology and health promotion) and a Master of Social Work, complemented by seven years of experience in community services, including family services. In this role, I supported young people and their parents/carers who presented with complex issues/needs. Many of the young people I have supported over the years have experienced complex trauma and mental health issues, disability, family violence, challenging behaviour, and poor social skills/isolation. I have also worked in adult mental health, child protection, and disability support.

I really enjoy working with young people and their families to help them navigate their way in the world and develop the necessary skills to be the best version of themselves. Some of the things I can assist with are anxiety, depression, relationship/family challenges, improving social skills and emotional regulation, and managing stress and anger.

I am thrilled to be working with the Wellbeing Team at Lalor Secondary College. I will be based in the wellbeing space and working on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns or require any wellbeing related assistance. 

Please come and say hi and I hope to meet you soon. 

Emily Smolenaars 

Student Counsellor 

IYC Rainbow Group Information

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The Rainbow Group is a new personal development program/social support group at IYC for local LGBTIQA+ young people (aged 12-25) from The City of Whittlesea or neighbouring suburbs. 

It is also a safe group for anyone who may be questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity and/or who doesn’t feel comfortable with any label. 

In this program, young people can build positive connections with others, and can enhance their youth participation and empowerment and self-confidence whilst feeling a positive connection to their local community. 

The activities that will be included in the program are going to be chosen by the young people in the program and what they want to do and are interested in, but a few that we have in mind include self-defence workshops and arts and crafts. 

There will be one group running weekly starting on Monday 31/7/23 at Innovation Youth Centre (IYC) from 4-6 pm.

To join, please register with IYC staff on 9401 7959 or email us at info@iyc.org.au or you can send us a DM.