High school is the final transition into adulthood and the workforce as students begin separating from parents and exploring and defining their independence. Students are deciding who they are, what they do well, and what they will do when they graduate. During these adolescent years, students are evaluating their strengths, skills and abilities. The biggest influence is their peer group. They are searching for a place to belong and rely on peer acceptance and feedback. They face increased pressures regarding risk behaviors involving sex, alcohol and drugs while exploring the boundaries of more acceptable behavior and mature, meaningful relationships. They need guidance in making concrete and compounded decisions. They must deal with academic pressures as they face high-stakes testing, the challenges of tertiary admissions, the scholarship and financial aid application process and entrance into a competitive job market.
Meeting the Challenge
Secondary school counsellors are professional educators with a mental health perspective who understand and respond to the challenges presented by today’s diverse student population. Secondary school counsellors do not work in isolation; rather they are integral to the total educational program. They provide proactive leadership that engages all stakeholders in the delivery of programs and services to help the student achieve success in school. Professional school counselors align and work with the school’s mission to support the academic achievement of all students as they prepare for the ever-changing world of the 21st century. This mission is accomplished through the design, development, implementation and evaluation of a comprehensive, developmental and systematic school-counselling program.
My Role
- To empathize
- To care
- To listen
- To be non judgmental
- To maintain confidentiality
- To offer cultural and physical safety
- To help you cope
- To find out what is really your concern
- To help you find some answer
Reasons to see me
- You have trouble getting on with others
- Your worried about home stuff
- You want to make an important decision
- You want help setting goals
- Your anger is hindering you
- You feel lonely
- Someone is bullying you
- You are being abused in some way
- You or someone you care about has a drug or alcohol problem
- Everything seems pointless
Where to find Me
- My room is at the end of the office corridor
- Just knock on the door
- Or see me as I wonder around
- Or leave me a note
Other People who can Help
- VF Teacher
- Your Dean
- The office ladies
- The school doctor
- Your favourate teacher
- A Senior student