Umbrella Counselling offers many specialized services designed to support students, educators, and schools in fostering healthier educational environments.
School Refusal Support Program
School refusal, characterized by a student’s persistent reluctance or refusal to attend school, often stems from underlying anxiety or emotional distress. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial, as prolonged absenteeism can hinder academic progress and social development. Our School Refusal Support Program provides comprehensive interventions tailored to each student’s unique needs, aiming to identify and address the root causes of their school avoidance. By collaborating closely with families and educational institutions, we strive to reintegrate students into the learning environment, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive academically and emotionally.
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Professional Development for Schools
Recognizing the pivotal role educators play in shaping student experiences, we offer a Professional Development Program focused on building safe and supportive classrooms through trauma-informed practices. In January 2025, we had the privilege of conducting a hands-on workshop with educational staff at a high school in Canberra. This workshop equipped educators with insights from neuroscience and somatic practices, enabling them to create learning environments that are not only academically challenging but also emotionally supportive. Key topics covered included understanding the impact of trauma on the brain, implementing somatic practices to promote emotional safety, and fostering self-awareness among educators to enhance their well-being and teaching effectiveness.
By integrating these services, Umbrella Counselling is committed to enhancing the well-being of both students and educators, fostering educational settings where everyone can succeed.
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Understanding Self-Harm in Young People
Self-harm among young people is a growing concern, often serving as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions or situations. Factors contributing to self-harm include experiences of trauma, bullying (both offline and online), mental health disorders, and societal pressures. The rise of social media has also been linked to increased instances of self-harm, with platforms sometimes exacerbating feelings of inadequacy or isolation. For instance, studies have shown a correlation between cyberbullying and increased suicidal thoughts among adolescents.
Recognizing the signs of self-harm is vital for early intervention. Warning signs may include unexplained injuries, wearing long sleeves in warm weather, withdrawal from friends and activities, and expressions of hopelessness. Early intervention strategies encompass open communication, fostering supportive environments, and seeking professional help when necessary. Umbrella Counselling emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of self-harm and offers tailored therapeutic approaches to address these challenges, aiming to promote healthier coping mechanisms and overall well-being among young individuals.
By integrating these services and insights, Umbrella Counselling is committed to enhancing the well-being of both students and educators, fostering educational settings where everyone can succeed.