A Counsellor is a skilled helper, a coach, a caring listener, a consultant, a cheerleader, a referral agent, and most importantly, a student advocate. A Counsellor is one part of the Lockport Student Services Team which also includes Administrators, Resource Teachers, and other Divisional Clinicians who work together to help students develop the strengths, skills, values and knowledge for everyday life.
Counselling Services at Lockport School could be: • Coaching students in order to reach their personal best emotionally and academically • Acting as a student advocate, helping them to express their concerns and needs • Assisting students with the daily challenges of being a teenager • Providing individual, group, or crises counselling • Acting as a liaison between parents, school staff, and outside agencies • Coaching students in making positive and proactive decisions • Providing training and implementation for Peer Helpers
Some circumstances where students may seek a Counsellor are: • Coping with Failure or Disappointment • Coping with Stress and/or Anxiety • A Fear • A Conflict • A Rejection • A Death • A School Problem • A Behaviour Concern • A Physical or Health Concern • Relationships with Friends • Romantic Relationships • Coping with Peer Pressure • Examining Choices • Family Concerns • High School Registration • Gender and Sexual Identity
Confidentiality & Records Information from counselling sessions is confidential. However, there are some cases in which confidentially must be broken: 1. When there is a risk of danger to the student or others 2. When legal requirements need to take my records ie.) Subpoena 3. When students are in need of protection
Guidance Education at Lockport School Each year the school population receives awareness information via classroom presentations, displays, guest speakers, and/or large assemblies. Previous topics have included: Appreciating Diversities, Assertiveness, Binge Drinking, Body Image, Building Healthy Relationships, Career Exploration, Drug Awareness, Healthy Lifestyles, Positive Choices, Reproductive Health, Substance Abuse, Etc.
How to Contact the Counsellor: Students: If you would like to meet with a counsellor, drop by my office to make an appointment. If the door is closed, please fill out an appointment card and pop it in the mail slot in the office door.
Parents: If you have a concern about your child and would like to consult with me, please contact my office by phone or email. I will help in any way that I am able to.