Before becoming a full-time wellbeing counsellor, I worked as a teacher for nearly thirty years.  I have seen at first-hand what a critical part pastoral support plays in the life of a young person. 

In today’s noisy world of intrusive social media, peer pressure, bullying, and overwhelming expectation, it is easy to understand why students can suffer from confidence issues. Sometimes, the opportunity just to sit down and talk through the things that are concerning them can dramatically affect a student’s self-esteem.

In my safeguarding role at the school,  I am proud to say that I helped a large number of students overcome issues with anxiety, negative body image, bullying, and depression.  Using a combination of one-to-one counselling, wellbeing practices, and talking therapy, I gave pupils the confidence they needed to face their challenges head-on.

It was vital to me during my teaching career that no student under my care was ever left unsupported. 

In my current role as a full-time counsellor, I still work with many students, providing them with ‘pastoral care outside the classroom’. 

While wellbeing counselling is, of course, beneficial for everyone, it can be particularly effective for younger people looking for a proactive way to build confidence.