Holistic Approach

The St Edward’s College Counselling Service is an integral part of the College’s commitment to holistic education. It reflects the belief that education extends beyond academic achievement to nurture the wellbeing of the whole person. Counselling support recognises each student as an individual within a broader community and family context, valuing their social, emotional, cultural, physical, and psychological development. Through this approach, the Counselling Service aims to help students identify and build on their personal strengths, develop resilience and self-awareness, and feel supported as they grow in confidence, responsibility, and connection with others.

When to Talk to a Counsellor

It may be helpful to speak with a Counsellor if you notice that you are not feeling or functioning as you usually do. This can include times when things begin to feel overwhelming or difficult to manage, and you may notice changes such as:

• Wanting to stay in bed or avoid leaving your room
• Disrupted sleep, including waking during the night or difficulty falling asleep
• Withdrawing from friends or social activities
• Changes in appetite
• Finding everyday tasks unusually difficult
• Losing interest in activities you normally enjoy
• Feeling persistently low, flat, or unmotivated

Talking with a Counsellor can provide a safe and supportive space to explore what’s going on and help you find ways to feel more supported.

Is Counselling Private and Confidential

Yes. What you talk about with a Counsellor is private and confidential. This means your conversations are not shared with others without your permission.

There are a few situations where the law requires information to be shared — for example, if a student has been harmed or is at risk of harming themselves or someone else. If this happens, the Counsellor will focus on keeping everyone safe.

With your consent, Counsellors can also support you by working with your teachers and parents/caregivers. This might include helping teachers and parents/caregivers understand what’s going on for you, so you can receive the right support at school and at home.

How to Access the Counsellors

Students can access the school Counsellors in the following way:

• Self-Referral by coming directly to Pastoral Care and making an appointment with the Counsellors
• Students can access both Counsellors through their school email by simply searching 'counsellors' in the email address list.
• Peer to Peer referral: A friend can bring a friend up to Pastoral care or they can come up themselves to discuss their concerns for their friend.
• Teachers can also refer students to the Counselling service

Parents can refer to the School Counsellors:

• Via a phone call and speaking directly with the school counsellor
• Email directly to each school counsellor
• Email info@stedwards.nsw.edu.au

It is important to remember that the School Counselling service is not a crisis service. This means that on weekends, and school holidays, the Counsellors will not be available. If you have concerns about a student in out of school hours, please contact the following:

• Mental Health Access Line: 1800 011 511
• Lifeline (24/7): 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au
• Kids Helpline (24/7): 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au
• Headspace Gosford: 4304 7870
• Headspace Lake Haven: 4394 9100
• Youth Health: 4356 9333
• Youth Drug & Alcohol Service: 4394 4880