Schools
Research has shown that counselling:
- provides the opportunity to share problems and concerns in a non-judgemental setting
- provides the opportunity for confidentiality and safety which may allow the young person to talk about long-suppressed experiences which may have been causing distress.
Counselling in schools provides a cost-effective service for pupils who are experiencing emotional distress and/or behavioural problems.
Resolution of these issues, of course, not only helps the individual concerned but can also act as a catalyst in reducing general classroom disruption and improving staff morale.
The first stage in the process is for us to meet with the school head and other relevant staff to introduce:
- The Valley Trust counselling service – an overview
- The counsellor’s role
- How to involve the school’s pastoral staff
- Record-keeping arrangements
- Review and evaluation processes
Who can benefit
Primary school children
Children who display low self esteem and appear isolated and lacking in social skills benefit from counselling. It helps them express their thoughts and feelings effectively.
Secondary school children
Young people with emotional difficulties find that counselling provides them with an opportunity to explore strategies to manage themselves and their relationships more effectively. We can also provide counsellor consultations to school staff regarding pupil issues or tailored personal support.
Issues presented by children and young people include:
- Difficulties with family or peer relationships
- Bullying
- Anxiety or stress-related issues
- School refusal difficulties
- Low self esteem
- Bereavement or loss issues
- Self harm
- Misuse of drugs or alcohol
- Sexual, physical or emotional abuse issues
