Tamatea High School

My name is Dick Wivell and I am the School Guidance Counsellor.

I am a trained teacher and have, in the past, taught History, English, Social Studies and Health.

In the early 1990’s I began a Masters Degree in Guidance and Counselling at Massey University and graduated in 1995. I have held counselling positions since 1990. I am a full member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors and have regular supervision.

I do not generally teach timetabled classes, but occasionally I organise and/or run groups on guidance related topics.

I am a husband and a dad. Our three children, who have all left home, are doing pretty much their own thing these days.

About the service

As the school counsellor I am available to students, parents and caregivers, and staff. I can be contacted by phone or more usually for the students, a note left at my door. Messages can also be left on my answer phone. Students who choose to see me will have appointments scheduled during different lessons so as to minimise the impact on their learning.

Parents and Caregivers often find it useful to talk through issues on the phone and to use me as a resource person. I have a good knowledge of other agencies that may be of use and am able in certain situations to make referrals.

What happens in counselling?

There are times in your life when things don’t work out the way you would like them to. At these times, you may be worried, angry, upset, sad or depressed. It helps to talk to someone about what is going on for you.

In counselling you can talk about problems and concerns in a safe place with someone who will support you.

As a counsellor, my job is to:

• be someone who you can trust and be open with
• listen carefully and sensitively
• be non-judgemental and will not blame you for the problem
• try and see things from your point of view
• encourage you to make your own decisions
• support you in any changes you decide to make
• offer to refer you to other help if necessary
• help you to find out what is really concerning you
• offer suggestions or options that are available to you

How counselling can help?

Counselling can help you to:

• improve how you feel about yourself
• reduce your stress
• plan and set goals
• explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviour
• improve your relationships

Counselling can also help you if you

• are having trouble getting on with some people
• are worried about things that are happening at home
• need help with study techniques and managing your time
• want help with making an important decision
• have experienced the recent death of someone in the family or close to you
• are having boyfriend/girlfriend problems
• are getting into trouble because of your anger
• find it difficult to say ‘No’
• want to stop some bullying
• want to talk about some abuse that has been going on – with you or with someone else
• have an alcohol or drug problem
• feel lonely or that everything seems pointless
• want help in choosing subject options

What about confidentiality?

Whatever we talk about is completely confidential. This means not telling your parents, your dean, teachers or friends without your permission or knowledge.

I may need to talk through with you how best to support you. At times this could include involving someone else, with your knowledge and permission.

The only time I will break this rule of confidentiality is if you or someone else is in danger. Then I have a duty to prevent harm. If at all possible I would talk this through with you before acting.

Need to know more, then…

Please feel free to contact me if you have any concerns or would like further information on the services I can offer.