The aim of the Counselling Service
The aim of the counselling service is to provide a safe and confidential place for students to talk about their needs, their desires, their choices, or about any issue that may be troubling or challenging them.
Who can access the Counselling Service?
Any student of the Rockhampton Grammar School may access the counselling service.
Appointments
Students, staff, or parents may request counselling for a student, but all appointments are to be approved by the relevant Head of School. Students who are unable to keep their appointments must contact either their Head of School or Mrs. Miller.
Cost
The service is provided free of charge to students of the School.
Counselling Staff
There are currently two counsellors employed as consultants by the School:
- Mr. Richard Morris (Mondays)
- Mrs. Leah Reilly (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
Students have the choice as to which counsellor they would like to see.
Issues covered by the Counselling Service
Some examples include dealing with: stress, anxiety, depression (feeling down), family issues, personal issues, relationships, school-related issues (such as bullying, time management, study challenges, boarding, homesickness), future academic endeavours (university, TAFE, employment), etc.
While it is not uncommon for people to feel uncomfortable or anxious about seeing a counsellor, counselling sessions can provide an opportunity to consider and discuss different perspectives and options for challenging situations and circumstances.
Confidentiality
Students (as participants of the counselling service) have a right to privacy. This means that information is kept private, unless:
- there is a risk to the student's or someone else's safety
- the student provides permission for the counsellor to talk to someone else
- the counsellor is legally required to disclose information
Safety and Comfort
Students have the right to feel safe and comfortable with their counsellor. If they do not, they may request to change counsellors.
While it can be very difficult to talk with a stranger about some issues, it is important that students are completely honest with their counsellor.
Further Information
For further information regarding the Counselling Service, students should speak to their respective Head of School or preferred staff member.
