Wellbeing
At Sacred Heart College, the mental health, wellbeing and pastoral care of our students is a high priority.
We are committed to supporting students to thrive both academically and personally, and we understand the vital role emotional, social and psychological wellbeing plays in achieving this.
Our Psychology and Counselling Team
The College is fortunate to have a dedicated team of Psychologists and Counsellors who apply their psychological and educational expertise to support students in striving for academic success, psychological health and emotional wellbeing.
Our team works closely with students, parents/caregivers, staff and external professionals across a range of support areas including:
- One-on-one counselling and consultation
- Mental health and wellbeing support
- Learning and academic assessments
- Implementation of prevention and intervention programs
- Support for critical incidents and transitions
- Liaison with external providers (e.g. CAMHS, private clinicians)
- Referrals and coordinated care
While the team offers short-term support at school, students requiring long-term or more intensive mental health intervention will be referred to external providers such as a Clinical Psychologist or CAMHS. In these cases, the College can provide a liaison service to help ensure continuity of care.
A Collaborative, House-Aligned Approach
The team works in close alignment with our House System, with each psychologist or counsellor linked to specific Houses and their Pastoral Care Group (PCG) teachers. This strengthens relationships and ensures students feel connected and supported within their House community.
Initial concerns about a student’s wellbeing or learning should be raised with the PCG Teacher and Assistant Deputy Principal (ADP), who may then consult with the Psychologist and Counselling Team. This referral process ensures a coordinated and effective response to student needs.
Supporting Learning and Academic Development
In addition to mental health support, the Psychologist and Counselling Team assists students experiencing academic challenges. Where appropriate, they may work collaboratively with Learning Support staff and teachers and conduct psychometric assessments. These assessments are prioritised based on school-initiated concerns and broader student needs.
Therapy Dog Prgoram
In 2024, the College welcomed Ellie, a WA Assistance and Therapy Dog, and her trainer Emily. Ellie visits the College regularly, helping to create a calm and welcoming environment. She supports students by:
- Greeting them as they arrive
- Attending classes
- Sitting in on counselling sessions to reduce anxiety
- Promoting emotional regulation and wellbeing
Ellie has quickly become a much-loved part of our wellbeing support system.
Promoting Mental Health Awareness
Adolescence is a key developmental stage where mental health issues often emerge. As stigma around mental illness continues to reduce, Sacred Heart College is committed to fostering open conversations about mental health through education, awareness campaigns and access to reliable resources.
One such resource is SchoolTV, an excellent platform offering parents and caregivers special reports and expert advice on a range of issues affecting today’s youth.
Confidentiality and Ethical Practice
Our Psychologists and Counsellors adhere to the highest professional standards. Confidentiality is maintained in line with the ethical guidelines set out by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and professional registration boards. This ensures students and families feel safe and respected throughout the support process.
