Role of Student Counselor
At Indian Way School, the responsibility of our school counsellor, Milosz Janda, extends beyond addressing the mental health and behavioural intervention needs of students to also promoting early intervention and crisis prevention. This proactive approach supports psychosocial wellness and fosters the developmental growth of students, making the entire school community feel responsible and involved in the students’ well-being.
Rationale
Students’ unaddressed mental health and behavioural needs can significantly impede their academic performance and hinder their social and emotional development, potentially jeopardizing school safety. Given past incidents of student violence, it is imperative to recognize that schools serve as primary environments for the identification and intervention of mental health crises and behavioural challenges among students.
Counselor’s Role at Indian Way School
Mr. Janda’s role at Indian Way School is not just about providing counselling, but also about fostering a collaborative environment. He works closely with the school administration, educators, and parents, advocating for, coordinating, and establishing partnerships within the entire school community. This ensures that students and their families receive the necessary mental health and behavioural services. Teachers and parents are encouraged to report any warning signs indicative of changes in student behaviour, such as fluctuations in academic performance, declining grades, issues with attendance, mood alterations, frequent complaints of illness before attending school, or disciplinary challenges. In certain instances, the child may disclose difficulties at home or within the family context, including stress, trauma, separation, divorce, and loss.
Our school counselling program offers both preventative measures and targeted interventions within the school setting for students facing mental health and behavioural challenges. We acknowledge and address the obstacles that may hinder access to local or community mental health services, including the stigma associated with seeking such assistance and cultural or linguistic barriers that may exist. By providing services in a familiar environment and with trusted individuals, students are more inclined to engage with the support they need.
Mr. Janda is committed to maintaining strict confidentiality protocols in his work. All consultations are conducted in a private and confidential environment, ensuring the privacy and trust of our students and their families.