Wellbeing

"... we have to give students ‘a solid basis on which to build their lives; to guarantee their safety and their education to be everything they can be"

Pope Francis, Rio de Janiero, 2013

From time-to-time students may experience challenges that affect their learning and wellbeing and can be a cause of concern. Gleeson College provides a counselling service for students experiencing issues within and/or outside the College. Our Wellbeing Centre can provide a safe space for students to speak openly about their worries and our counsellors will assist students to explore strategies and work with staff and families towards positive outcomes.

Counsellors help students through a wide range of difficulties and problems in order to support their overall wellbeing. These can include:

Friendship / relationships
Goal setting
Organisational skills
Emotional regulation
Social skills
Family Dynamics
General stress
Grief and loss

Parents, friends and teachers are all important in the emotional wellbeing of a young person, so strengthening these support networks is an important part of the counselling process.

All information gathered by Gleeson College Counsellors remains confidential. However, information has to be disclosed at times.

Our Counsellors

Vanessa Gruber

Vanessa is a dedicated counsellor known for her calm and reassuring approach. With extensive experience in Social Work, she has spent many years supporting young people and their families through various challenges. Vanessa is deeply passionate about promoting positive mental health and is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for students. Her expertise and compassionate nature make her a valuable resource for those seeking guidance and support.

Vanessa has a Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Teaching, and is a member of the Association of Counsellors in Catholic Schools.

Courtney Olley

Courtney is a personable counsellor who brings an engaging approach to her practice. With a background in Psychology, she values working in partnership with families to provide a continuity of care. Courtney is an empathetic practitioner who is passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of adolescents. Her empathic nature allows her to support students in navigating their unique challenges and strengths to reach their full potential.

Courtney has a Bachelor of Psychological Science, majoring in Counselling and Interpersonal Skills, and is a member of the Association of Counsellors in Catholic Schools.

Students can self-refer via the Wellbeing page in the Portal Workspace on SEQTA. Alternatively, Parents/Caregivers can request a counselling appointment for their child by communicating with their child’s House Leader or by emailing the Wellbeing Centre at WBC@gleeson.catholic.edu.au (Please note, this is a voluntary service that students must consent to).

A Student Counsellor cannot replace the work of a mental health professional. If it becomes apparent that a student is in crisis; or has a suspected undiagnosed mental health concern, the Student Counsellor will contact the parent/caregiver to discuss referral to an appropriate external provider. If the student is receiving external supports, there is capacity for Student Counsellors to liaise and work in partnership.

SchoolTV

SchoolTV is a wellbeing resource that can support families in the challenges of modern-day parenting.

This award-winning resource helps build relationships, foster connections, enable understanding and break down barriers to navigate a pathway towards better mental health and wellbeing for young people. It can assist in starting conversations on topics that are sometimes awkward or difficult to tackle.

Parents and caregivers are the greatest influence on a young person's life and SchoolTV focuses on empowering confident parenting.

Explore SchoolTV Today!