GUIDANCE COUNSELLING SERVICES
What We Do
A room. Two chairs. And a person who cares.
Guidance counselling helps students better understand themselves so they can approach challenges, decisions, and opportunities with confidence and clarity. At Vincent Massey Collegiate, Guidance Counsellors work closely with students to support both academic success and personal growth, helping them build the future they envision.
Reaching goals begins with self‑understanding and awareness of the world around us. Guidance Counsellors provide a supportive, confidential environment where students can reflect, explore options, and make informed decisions related to school, careers, and personal well‑being.
Academic Counselling
Each year of high school is a stepping stone toward graduation and post‑secondary success. Guidance Counsellors help students stay on track academically by offering support with motivation, organization, study skills, course planning, and, when needed, referrals for tutoring or additional resources.
Career Counselling
Choosing a career path begins with self‑awareness. Guidance Counsellors help students explore important questions such as: Who am I? What are my interests, strengths, and values? What are my options after high school? Through discussion and exploration, students are supported in connecting who they are with future educational and career pathways.
Personal Counselling
Adolescence can present many challenges, and sometimes it helps to talk with someone who listens in a respectful, non‑judgmental way. Students may speak with Guidance Counsellors about adjusting to high school, peer pressure, friendships, family relationships, school‑related stress, identity questions, and emotional well‑being. When appropriate, counsellors may also recommend referrals to external support services.
We look forward to welcoming students into a space where they feel supported, understood, and empowered.
Confidentiality
Your Right. Our Responsibility.
When meeting with a Guidance Counsellor at Vincent Massey Collegiate, students have the right to confidentiality. This means that what is shared during counselling sessions remains private and respectful.
Confidentiality will only be broken with a student’s consent, except in situations where the counsellor is legally required to do so.
Limits to Confidentiality
By law, a Guidance Counsellor must break confidentiality if there is reason to believe that:
- A student is at risk of harming themselves
- A student is at risk of harming others
- A student is being harmed or is at risk of being harmed by someone else
These exceptions exist to ensure student safety and well‑being.
Guidance Counsellors are committed to providing a safe, trusting, and supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking help and guidance.