Every day, all over NSW, school counsellors and school psychologists work to support the social, emotional and academic development of public school students.

Through counselling, assessment and intervention services, they play a critical role in understanding and connecting to ensure students thrive.

For Daisy Collins, a school counsellor based in Far West NSW with therapy dog Basil, there is no job that could suit her interests more perfectly.

“I'd always enjoyed working with children and I always loved studying psychology, and thought, how do I combine those two interests?” Ms Collins said.

“When the role of school counsellor came up, it just made immediate sense to me.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding job. We are able to help students realise that it’s not as scary as it may seem to talk to somebody about their feelings and what is going on for them.

“I would say to anybody considering a career in school counselling or school psychology, just do it.”

Today is School Counsellor and School Psychologist Recognition Day. The theme for 2024, ‘Little Moments, Lasting Change’, fittingly describes the impact they have on students’ wellbeing and development.

NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar paid tribute to counsellors at all schools.

“Our School Counselling Service helps students across a vast range of services, making a vital difference when it matters most,” he said.

“They change the lives of young people for the better every day. Happy School Counsellor and School Psychologist Recognition Day all.”

For more information about becoming a school counsellor, visit School Counselling Service careers.