Psychologists in schools: Information for school communities

At the primary level a referral to the psychologistwill be discussed with the parents who will be required to sign a consent form agreeing to the service.

In secondary schools, the requirement for parent consent varies between individual schools and state and territory education department guidelines.

Often young people can self-refer to the psychologist.

Access the information for school communities brochure.

Psychologists work at many levels in schools. For example, they support whole school practice by implementing programs to address bullying, violence, personal safety or behaviour.

These programs are designed tohelp schools be safer places that support the wellbeing and resilience of all students.

Psychologists work indirectly with groups within the school and with specific school based issues, for example, they consult with teachers about general mental health issues which affect students (such as anxiety and depression), student learning and behaviour needs and child and adolescent development.

Psychologists also work directly with children or young people who are facing specific challenges.This can involve assessment of learning or behaviour, or assessment of a young person’s coping skills.

They offer counselling and support for problematic life events that can affect all students, for example, grief and loss, bullying, sexuality issues, substance abuse issues, trauma, family breakdown and relationship issues.

Psychologists who are members of the Australian Psychological Society are regulated by the APS Code of Ethics.

They have extensive training in ethical practice that is designed to protect both the integrity of the profession and the rights and safety of the public, including children in schools.

Psychologists are registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Authority which means that they have formal accredited qualifications, they have an obligation to have up to date continuing professional development and they are subject to a formal complaints process.

Many psychologists also have formal teaching qualifications. All of this means that psychologists are specialists who can offer children and young people the best available support for difficulties they might be experiencing at school.