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Student counselling services at Immanuel

Primary School Counselling Services at Immanuel Lutheran College 

At Immanuel Lutheran College, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all students. Our Primary School counselling services are designed to address a wide range of emotional, social, and academic concerns, providing comprehensive support to students and their families.

Our counsellors offer one-on-one sessions tailored to meet the specific needs of each student. These sessions provide a confidential space for children to express their feelings, work through difficulties, and develop coping strategies.

The Primary School Counselling service at Immanuel Lutheran College work closely with teachers, administrators, parents, and all members of the community to provide holistic support. By collaborating we ensure that counselling efforts are aligned with the student’s academic and social environments, fostering a cohesive support system. We believe that the whole person is the whole point, addressing the overall well-being of each student.

Secondary School Counselling Services at Immanuel Lutheran College 

At Immanuel, our secondary school counselling service plays an important role in providing support to students facing a variety of challenges. We offer dedicated assistance for issues ranging from learning difficulties to navigating peer and family relationships, as well as addressing mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, worry, or feelings of isolation.

Our counsellors are integral members of the college wellbeing team, equipped with specialised expertise in mental health. Our counselling services are designed to empower students, fostering their personal growth and academic success while addressing their unique needs with empathy and professionalism.  This enables them to effectively help young people succeed across academic, social, behavioural and emotional domains.

Students in our secondary school can take initiative by self-referring and scheduling confidential sessions with our counsellors. This approach empowers students to seek help proactively within a supportive and confidential environment that respects their privacy and individual needs.

Immanuel’s College Counsellors

Paul O’Reilly

Paul O’Reilly BA, GradDip Teaching (Primary), GradDip of Psychology, GradDip in Psychology, Psychologist PSY0002414014

Paul O’Reilly, serving as a College Counsellor at Immanuel, brings a wealth of experience and qualifications to support secondary school students and their families. His professional journey includes roles as a primary school teacher and extensive work as a school counsellor across various P-12 schools in New South Wales.

Paul holds full registration with the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) as a teacher and is also registered with AHPRA as a psychologist (PSY0002414014). His approach to counselling is deeply student-centered, grounded in providing unconditional positive regard for each individual. His passion lies in helping young people manage and overcome social and emotional barriers that may impede their full engagement in schooling and hinder their potential for achievement.

In his practice, Paul employs a flexible blend of therapeutic approaches tailored to the specific needs of students. These include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Brief Solution-Focused Interventions. This multifaceted approach allows him to effectively address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges that students may face.

At Immanuel, secondary students have the option to self-refer to see Paul as their college counsellor. Additionally, Paul warmly welcomes parents and guardians to reach out to discuss any concerns they may have regarding their child’s well-being and academic journey. His collaborative and compassionate approach underscores his commitment to fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. He can be contacted on Monday to Friday, during school hours on oreillyp@immanuel.qld.edu.au or call 5477 3444.

Amy Garbellotto

Amy Garbellotto BLM (Primary), BSc (Psych), BPsychSc (Hons)

Amy is a warm and empathetic counsellor who is passionate about supporting children and adolescents. With a nurturing and gentle approach, Amy uses evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), to equip students to utilise more helpful perspectives and behaviours, empowering students to take brave steps toward their goals. Amy is highly dedicated and aims for every student to feel supported, heard, and comfortable to share. 

Amy has widespread experience in the Education sector, first as a registered teacher, and subsequently, as a College Counsellor. 

If you have concerns about your child, please contact Amy on garbellottoa@immanuel.qld.edu.au or call 5477 3430 (available every Friday) during school hours.

Greg Forrest

Greg Forrest BSc (Psych), BSc (Ed)

Greg Forrest serves as one of the College Counsellors at Immanuel, bringing with him the valuable perspective of a former teacher at the college. This background gives Greg a unique understanding of classroom dynamics and the pressures students face. Primarily focused on supporting our Primary School children and their families, Greg is an integral member of the College Wellbeing Team.

Greg’s main goal is to offer a safe, supportive space for students navigating difficult feelings and circumstances, providing them with the time and opportunity to speak with someone who truly listens. Known for his deep relational approach, Greg helps students develop positive behaviours and build meaningful relationships.

Parents are encouraged to reach out to Greg with any concerns about their children. To explore whether school counselling might be beneficial, please feel free to contact Greg at forrestgr@immanuel.qld.edu.au, drop by for a chat, or call 5477 3430 (available Monday, Wednesday, and every second Thursday) during school hours.

Immanuel Lutheran College believes that happy, confident children make the best learners. We nurture your child’s talents in a positive and engaging environment as the pathway to academic achievement along with overall wellness.  ILC’s caring, nurturing professionals are there to help your child develop confidence and to grow into a happy, balanced young adult.