
Rebranding Announcement: Introducing the Shore Psychology Service
We are pleased to announce an important update to the name and identity of our mental health support team at Shore. Beginning next term, the School Counselling Service will be rebranded as the School Psychology Service.
Why the Change?
This change reflects the professional qualifications and scope of practice of our team. All current members of the service are registered psychologists under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).
Unlike the term “counsellor,” which is not legally protected in Australia, “psychologist” is a regulated title that signifies rigorous education, training, ethical standards, and ongoing professional development. The new name better represents the calibre of care provided at Shore and aligns with national and international standards for school-based mental health services.
What Does a School Psychologist Do?
The role of a school psychologist goes far beyond traditional counselling. It encompasses both mental health support and the promotion of positive wellbeing through a variety of evidence-based approaches.
Our team provides:
- Assessment, case formulation and counselling services for a broad range of presenting concerns
- Evidence-based mental health intervention and crisis response
- Emotional and behaviour support planning
- Evidence-based group programmes for students and families on a range of psychological issues
- Positive wellbeing programmes that build resilience, character strengths, and promote flourishing
- Growth-focused interventions that enhance student potential and peak performance across all areas of the School curriculum
- Systemic consultation and staff support
- Expert training on specialist topics
- Liaison and clinical collaboration with external health providers to achieve the best possible outcome for every student.
All the psychologists at Shore are required to maintain high standards of practice through regular clinical supervision and continuous professional development as part of their ongoing PsyBA registration and specialist endorsement held by several team members.
Why It Matters
This rebranding:
- Clarifies professional qualifications for families, students, and staff
- Differentiates our team from unregulated roles
- Aligns with sector trends and professional standards (as seen at other independent schools across Australia and internationally)
- Encourages help-seeking by destigmatising mental health support
- Supports advocacy and collaboration with external agencies
- Reflects our commitment to fostering both mental health and positive wellbeing through evidence-based practice.
Seamless Transition
Please be assured that all existing services, appointments, and relationships with our team will continue seamlessly during this transition. The quality of care, accessibility, and support provided to students and families remains unchanged – only our service name is evolving to better reflect our professional identity and comprehensive approach to student wellbeing.
A Message to the Shore Community
Student wellbeing at Shore encompasses both mental health support and the cultivation of positive psychological qualities that help young people thrive. Our School Psychology Service is here to support every boy’s journey through a holistic approach that addresses challenges while also building strengths, resilience, and character. Whether through emotional regulation, social development, positive psychology interventions, or peak performance strategies, we are committed to helping students not just cope, but flourish. We hope this change enhances understanding, trust, and engagement across our community as we continue to champion both mental health recovery and positive human development.
Thank you for your continued support as we evolve to meet the needs of our students with excellence and integrity.
Mr Derek Champion
Deputy Head, Pastoral Care