The philosophy of the Student Advocacy Counsellor is to listen to and support students so that they are able to learn and develop fully.  All students may access this service through a self-referral process via email or directly at the Student Advocacy Counsellor’s room.  Looking out for the wellbeing of all students, deans and whanau may also make student referrals to the Student Advocate Counsellor.  When necessary, families may be supported to access specialised expertise of external agencies.  

Guidance Counselling is private and confidential.  The exception to this is in instances of serious harm to self and/or others where a Code of Ethics requires that further support is accessed. Students are informed of this expectation.   

I have the honour of supporting our girls through times of worry, concern or stress, and sharing in their goal setting, progress and successes whilst at Marist College.    

Prior to teaching, my background is in working therapeutically with adolescents within a drug and alcohol rehabilitation setting, including residential, school and youth lock-up, with at risk children and their families within a government department in Australia, and as child and adolescent counsellor through Barnados.    

Students can make a time to meet with me and can be assured that they will be listened to, guided to consider alternative perspectives, options and choices and supported, with privacy, confidentiality and their best interest being the guiding rule.    

Seeking support, even if a worry or concern is seemingly too big or too small, is a strength of character and opportunity to be empowered and to empower others.   

 Student Advocacy Counsellor 

 m.nair@maristcollege.school.nz