Beyond the Lesson Plan: How Incidental Counselling Benefits Everyone in the Classroom

Hello everyone, Tamar Hoffman here, your resident educational consultant and psychotherapist with a passion for empowering teachers and supporting student well-being. Today, I want to talk about a phenomenon sometimes called "incidental counselling" – those moments in the classroom where, quite unintentionally, teachers find themselves navigating emotionally charged situations.

Think about it: a student confides in you about family struggles, another lashes out after a bad grade, a third tearfully shares a personal challenge. These are not planned therapy sessions, but they present opportunities for genuine connection and support.

Here's the truth: teachers often wear many hats – educators, mentors, and sometimes, unintentional counsellors. While this isn't always explicitly part of the job description, these moments can be incredibly impactful for students and teachers alike.

Why does incidental counselling matter?

For Students:

• Provides a safe space to express emotions and concerns

• Feels supported and understood by a trusted adult

• Develops coping mechanisms and healthy communication skills

• Can prevent future conflicts and build positive relationships

For Teachers:

• Deepens connections with students, fostering trust and respect

• Builds emotional intelligence and resilience

• Enhances their ability to handle challenging situations

• Contributes to a more positive and supportive classroom climate

However, navigating these unplanned emotional encounters can be challenging. Teachers often lack formal training in counselling techniques, leaving them feeling unsure of how to respond effectively.

This is where Growth in Education comes in.

We offer NESA priority aligned professional development courses specifically designed for incidental counselling in schools. These courses equip teachers with the knowledge, skills, and tools to:

• Recognise the signs of emotional distress in students

• Create a safe and supportive environment for open communication

• Practice active listening and empathy

• Use de-escalation techniques and guide students towards healthy coping mechanisms

• Know when and how to refer students for further support

Investing in incidental counselling training for teachers is an investment in the well-being of your entire school community. By equipping educators to handle these moments effectively, you create a space where students feel supported, teachers feel empowered, and learning can flourish.

Ready to learn more? Contact Growth in Education today and hear about our comprehensive incidental counselling training programs. Remember, every teacher deserves the confidence and skills to navigate these unplanned moments, and every student deserves the support of a caring adult who can listen and guide them.

P.S. Share this blog with your school leadership and colleagues! Let's work together to equip teachers and empower students through effective incidental counselling practices.