At St. John Paul II Catholic High School, counseling services are designed to support the intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual development of every student. Rooted in the dignity of the human person, our approach seeks to form confident, resilient young men and women prepared to lead lives of purpose and integrity.

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Individual Counseling

The student counselor is available for one-on-one meetings with students to address personal, academic, and social concerns. These sessions provide a safe and supportive space where students can develop healthy coping strategies, strengthen decision-making skills, build confidence and resilience, and navigate academic or relational challenges. Our goal is to help students grow in self-awareness, responsibility, and virtue.

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Group Counseling

The student counselor facilitates small-group sessions on topics such as:

• Self-esteem and identity
• Healthy friendships
• Stress management
• Resilience and emotional regulation

Group counseling fosters connection, mutual support, and a sense of belonging within our school community.

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Classroom Guidance

In collaboration with faculty, the school counselor provides classroom-based guidance lessons that address important developmental topics, including:

• Conflict resolution
• Bullying prevention
• Digital responsibility
• Academic planning and college readiness

These lessons reinforce essential life skills while supporting our broader mission of student formation.

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Parent Partnership & Support

Recognizing parents as the primary educators of their children, our student counselor partners with families by:

• Providing guidance and practical resources
• Offering insight into adolescent development
• Supporting families during times of challenge

Open communication and collaboration ensure that students receive consistent care both at school and at home.

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At St. John Paul II Catholic High School, we strive to make counseling services accessible while maintaining an orderly academic environment. Students may meet with the student counselor through scheduled appointments, walk-ins (when appropriate), or emergency referrals.

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Scheduled Appointments

Scheduled appointments are encouraged for non-urgent matters to ensure dedicated time and minimal disruption to instruction.

Request forms are available outside the counselor’s office door.

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Walk-In Visits

Students may stop by between classes if they need brief assistance or have an immediate concern.

*Walk-ins are subject to availability (besides emergencies), especially if another student meeting is in progress.

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Teacher-Initiated Referrals

If a teacher has an immediate concern about a student, the teacher should email the counselor with a brief description of the concern or meet with the counselor in person.

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Emergency Protocol: Students in Crisis

If a student is experiencing an emotional or mental health crisis, the teacher should call or email the counselor immediately to confirm availability. If the counselor is unavailable, an administrator should be contacted to handle the situation.

Student safety is always the highest priority. In crisis situations, students will be attended to immediately and appropriate follow-up procedures will be initiated.

At St. John Paul II Catholic High School, the safety, dignity, and well-being of every student are our highest priorities. A trusting relationship is essential to effective counseling, and confidentiality is a cornerstone of that trust.

What Is Kept Private

Conversations between a student and the school counselor are kept confidential. Information shared during counseling sessions is not disclosed to peers, teachers, or others without a legitimate educational or safety reason.

Because we are a Catholic high school, we also view confidentiality through the lens of human dignity and moral responsibility. Students are encouraged to speak openly, knowing they will be treated with respect, compassion, and discretion.

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Limits of Confidentiality

While we uphold confidentiality to the greatest extent possible, there are circumstances in which disclosure is required to protect the student or others.

Confidentiality may be limited in the following situations:

Risk of Harm to Self or Others

If a student expresses thoughts or intentions of harming themselves or another person, the counselor is obligated to act to prevent imminent danger. This may include notifying parents/guardians, administration, or appropriate authorities.

Abuse or Neglect

If a student discloses abuse or neglect, the school is legally required to report this information to the appropriate child protection authorities in accordance with Florida law.

Consultation for Student Support

At times, it may be necessary to consult with school administration or other professionals to ensure appropriate academic, social, or emotional support. Information is shared responsibly and only with those who have a legitimate need to know, always prioritizing the student’s best interests.

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Our Commitment

We are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and faith-filled environment where students feel supported and heard. While confidentiality is fundamental to our counseling services, we also recognize our moral and legal responsibility to act when a student’s safety is at risk.