School Counsellors

Our new college counsellors

Andrew Hart has over twenty years experience as a Psychologist. He has completed a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is an endorsed Clinical Psychologist.  Andrew comes to St John Paul College from TAFE NSW, Port Macquarie where he was the TAFE Counsellor.  When not at St John Paul College, Andrew is trying out the local surf breaks, growing a native garden and veggies, as well as exploring our local natural places. 

Denise Andrade has completed a Master of Professional Psychology degree and Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) degree. She comes to St John Paul College and St Francis Xavier after her role as College Psychologist at St Edward's College, in the East Gosford area, and before that she was the School Psychologist for the NSW Department of Education in Yass and Coffs Harbour.  When not at St John Paul College, Denise is at the local farmers markets or at the beach.   

What do they do?

The School Counsellor assists children, young people, families and teachers to support a young person to get the best out of life at school.  They help children and young people to achieve academic success, psychological health, and social and emotional wellbeing. 

School Counsellors are professionally qualified, and are able to provide counselling to students individually and in groups.  A student’s reasons for seeing a School Counsellor may include worrying about school work, friendships or other relationships, bullying, general mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, or grief and loss.  Parents and carers may seek advice from School Counsellors about their child’s emotional and social well-being.  They may also seek information about getting help from other local services.  The School Counsellor may refer students and their families to appropriate health and welfare agencies as required.

How do I make an appointment?

At St John Paul College, students and their families can request an appointment with the School Counsellor by

• Contacting the School Counsellors, Andrew or Denise directly on 6653 3155.
• Discussing your concerns with the Year Co-ordinator
• Discussing your concerns with the Principal or Assistant Principals
• Completing a referral to School Counsellor form (available from the Front Office)

Young people under 14 years will need both parents to complete and sign a consent form prior to commencing counselling.  Students 14 and over who are requesting information or support, may self-refer through any of the above mentioned ways. 

Privacy and confidentiality

The information shared with the School Counsellor is kept private and confidential.  The School Counsellor’s files are stored securely, and only accessed by the School Counsellor.  If concerns arise about safety, the School Counsellor has an ethical and legal duty to inform professionals who can assist with the situation.  If you have concerns about privacy, please discuss these with the School Counsellor. 

What other supports are available in the Community?

There are agencies in the community that offer specialised counselling and support to young people and their families.  These services include drug and alcohol, mental illness, homelessness, employment, financial assistance, disability, sexual assault, violence, criminal behaviour and family law matters.  If your concerns relate to any of these areas, referral information can be provided to you.

Other supports that may be of assistance include:

Local Health Services and General Practitioners

Helplines and helpful websites