All views expressed in this episode are personal to Michelle Basson.

Michelle Basson is a dedicated school psychologist actively working in both public education systems and the academic sphere associated with university settings. Her role involves providing comprehensive support and counseling to students across multiple school environments, including both primary and high schools. Michelle's work extends to assessment and securing individual student support, making a significant impact on bridging student needs with available resources.

Key Takeaways

• Rising Mental Health Concerns: There is a notable increase in bullying and depressive symptoms amongst younger students, highlighting the urgent need for early intervention and mental health support in schools.

• Role of School Psychologists: School psychologists are instrumental in assessing students and securing additional support, effectively bridging the gap between student needs and school resources.

• Navigating Consent and Confidentiality: The process of obtaining consent and confidentiality in school counseling can vary significantly depending on the student's age and situation, necessitating sensitive navigation by school psychologists.

• Importance of School Systems: For parents, understanding the support systems available in schools and how to access them can be crucial in ensuring their child receives the necessary help.

• Demystifying Counseling: Open communication and breaking down the perceived complexities surrounding school counseling can foster a supportive environment for students, reducing the stigma around seeking help.

Notable Quotes:

1. "There's a real rise in kind of depressive symptoms in young people and anxiety... a really scary trend in schools."

2. "The more information we have, the more knowledge we have, the more the whole process becomes demystified."

3. "In the high school, definitely a lot of the referrals are counseling referrals... very open about what it might entail, the first session will just be getting to know you."

4. "If the student refuses to be seen by us... we have a person called the Student Support Officer."

5. "My hope is just that we continue to talk about mental health... students just know where they can find support."

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Key Takeaways:

• Independence is Key: Teenagers naturally drift away from parents as they seek independence, making this a crucial but challenging time for both.
• Adaptability is Essential: Parents must adapt to their teen’s rapidly changing behaviors and needs, understanding their own frustrations.
• Balancing Control and Connection: It is important to maintain connection over controlling every aspect of a teen's life, emphasizing trust and openness.
• Acknowledging Grief and Growth: Parents can acknowledge their feelings of loss and foreboding while celebrating the new person their teen is becoming.
• Communication is Paramount: Establish a communication style that respects the evolving needs of teens, guiding them without dictating.

Notable Quotes:

• "It's hard because you care. It's hard because you love them."
• "The goal shifts from being involved in everything really just to thinking in your mind. I'm available for anything that they need."
• "If parenting your teen feels hard, it doesn't necessarily mean that something's wrong."
• "Give ourselves permission to feel those things that worry, that sadness, that excitement."
• "Influence comes through connection, conversations, trust."

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways:

• Letting go of the "super parent" myth can alleviate feelings of guilt; focus on meaningful connections instead.
• Confirming through actions that your child knows they are loved and important is vital in parenting.
• Small touch points and personalized approaches to connection, such as texts or shared activities, are essential in building strong relationships.
• Community support and involving other trusted adults in your child's life bolster resilience and provide needed assistance.
• Understanding your teen's unique needs and responding with flexible, negotiated solutions can enhance your relational bond.

Notable Quotes:

• "Being stretched doesn't mean you're failing."
• "Connection matters much more than your constant presence."
• "A five minute meaningful conversation can be more important or have more impact than hours spent in the same room."
• "No teen is meant to be raised by one adult alone."
• "Your teen doesn't need a perfect parent… They need a parent who keeps showing up."

Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.