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SCHOOL COUNSELLING SERVICE

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Staff Members

  • Colin Thomson MBACP - Person Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist

  • Sheryl Grant MBACP - Person Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist

Who Are We?

Colin has been here 4 years. Previously a Samaritans listening volunteer, he works a Monday and Tuesday in school, and has a private practice in East Kilbride.

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Colin’s qualifications are: 

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  • Cosca Counselling skills certificate

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling & Psychotherapy

 

Sheryl has been a school counsellor for 6 years and has been in Belmont for 5 years. Previously she worked in Prestwick Academy and Marr College. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday she is in Belmont. With an added online day each Friday. Sheryl also has a private practice.

Previously Sheryl was a foster carer and primary teacher.

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Her qualifications are:

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  • BA (Hons) Social Science, major Psychology

  • PGCE Primary Education

  • Post Graduate Certificate in Person Centred Therapy

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Person Centred Therapy

 

Both our counsellors are BACP* Accredited – *British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.

What is Counselling?

Counselling provides pupils with a safe and confidential space for them to talk to a trained professional about their issues and concerns. We will help them explore their thoughts, feeling and behaviours so they can develop a better understanding of themselves and of others.

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We will not give them our opinions or advice or prescribe medication. We will help pupils find their own solutions – whether that is making effective changes in their life or finding ways of coping with their problems.

What Happens in Counselling?

Our sessions are planned and last for 50 minutes, like the length of a school period. Most pupils come weekly, but this can vary depending on individual needs. We offer 6-8 sessions to begin with and this can be extended where it is right to do so. All our sessions are one to one. They most often occur face to face, but online and telephone appointments are available both during term and holidays.

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During a session, we will ask you how they are and what they wish to talk about. We will be impartial and understanding. We will listen without judgement and help pupils explore their thoughts and emotions. We may offer information, but we will not tell them what they should think or do.

Confidentiality & Counselling

Attending counselling is entirely voluntary.

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Our sessions are confidential. We explain our policy to each pupil when we contract with them during the first session.

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The only exception to this is harm. If a pupil tells us they or someone they know, is at risk of harm, we will inform the school at the first opportunity.

How Can I Refer to Counselling?

Referrals can be made via the following routes:

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Useful Numbers & Links

Useful Apps

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