Guidance and Counselling Services

Our mission is to provide a Guidance and Counselling service which is of the highest professional standard, based upon principles of empowerment and Gospel values. The service aims to support all members of the Terrace community, especially those students experiencing difficulty, and assist people to make informed, healthy life choices.

Students, families and staff are able to seek assistance regarding personal, career and educational issues.

Personal counselling includes concerns about bullying, anxiety, depression, relationships, self esteem, stress, transition to new school, referral to specialists, family concerns, anger, accommodation, conflict with teachers and peers, coping strategies, self esteem, grief and loss.  There are many issues you might wish to seek assistance with and if you’re not sure if we can help, we welcome your enquiry.

Educational counselling includes motivation, study skills, time management learning styles, exam techniques, alternative educational plans and special consideration.

Career counselling can help students develop lifelong career management skills, assess interests and abilities, explore educational and career pathways, and assist in career decision making. For detailed information about Career Counselling at Terrace, please go to the Careers page.

 

What is Counselling?

Counselling is a way of helping people to express themselves, deal with problems, make decisions, set and achieve goals, and feel supported. It is built on an honest and caring relationship between the counsellor and the person coming to counselling. School counsellors strive to understand, support, encourage and challenge young people so they can lead happier lives and develop important life skills. Counsellors will listen to you without judgment.

Confidentiality

This means that the conversations you have with a counsellor are private. The counsellor will not tell other people what you have told them unless they have your permission, but there are limits. Counsellors cannot keep conversations confidential if safety is an issue. This is very important and if you seek help from a counsellor, you should ask questions to make sure you understand.

Referral

Whilst we want to help, sometimes we might suggest you talk to another professional. For example, we might not have the expertise you need, or you might prefer to see someone away from school. If that is the case, we will help you find the right person.

Making an appointment

If you would like to make a time to speak with a counsellor you can contact Karyn Jones or Francesca Hawkes, Assistants to Counselling Services, or one of the counsellors directly using the contact details listed above. Alternatively, you may wish to speak first with a tutor, trusted teacher or house dean who can make an appointment on your behalf. Year 10 students can also make an appointment through Reception at Waterford Place.

Counselling Services are located above the Campbell Centre on Level 3. The service also has a range of brochures and leaflets available which you are free to take.