Theme – Nuts and bolts of school psychology & counselling – The practical and everyday work
- Evidence-based and practical approaches for common school referrals
- Core tools and techniques for everyday school practice
- Ask Me Anything – Term 3, 2026 – Michelle and Matt
Being a school psychologist or counsellor often means responding to complex issues with limited time and competing demands. This term’s sessions are designed to sharpen the tools you use most often. The Deep Dive sessions walk through practical, evidence-based approaches to some of the most common school-based referrals and essential core skills that help psychologists and counsellors work efficiently and ethically in school settings. Whether it’s anxiety, self-harm, classroom behaviour, or documentation for funding, you’ll gain quick-reference frameworks, real-world strategies, and confidence in navigating these everyday challenges. The Practice Toolbox then zooms in on highly practical tips—things you can literally do next week—like writing letters to external providers or documenting observations effectively.
Evidence-based and practical approaches for common school referrals
(Deep dive session – 1hr)
Session description
This session offers a practical and fast-paced walkthrough of evidence-based approaches for the presentations school psychologists and counsellors encounter most frequently. Designed as a “quick reference” deep dive, it blends conceptual clarity with day-to-day applicability. We’ll explore effective strategies and process pathways for common concerns such as school refusal, emotional regulation difficulties (“meltdowns”), self-harm and low self-esteem, family changes (divorce and bereavement), social challenges, exam stress and classmate illness or injury. This session will help you feel equipped to respond quickly, use your time efficiently, and offer support that is both compassionate and grounded in evidence.
Learning outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify effective, evidence-based approaches for common referral concerns in schools
- Confidently respond to school refusal, exam stress, emotional regulation, and social conflict
- Use quick reference frameworks to guide fast decision-making in day-to-day practice
- Integrate strategies that balance efficiency with compassion in time-limited school contexts
- Strengthen collaboration with staff and families when supporting students through social and emotional challenges
Core tools and techniques for everyday school practice
(Practice toolbox – ½ hr)
Session overview
This fast-moving session dives straight into the practicalities of school-based documentation and communication. From writing clear letters to external providers to capturing useful observations and preparing for meetings, this toolbox session is packed with small strategies that can make a big difference. You’ll walk away with real examples, editable templates, and ideas that help you collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
Key takeaways:
In this toolbox session, we will cover:
- How to write succinct, purposeful letters to external professionals
- Strategies for documenting classroom and playground observations
- Time-saving documentation tips for busy school days
- Examples of language that maintains clarity and professionalism
This course includes:
- 3 PD sessions (2hrs of content)
- Slides + resources
- Access at any time
Who is it for?
- School Psychologist
- School Counsellors
Presented by:
- Dr Matt O'Connor
- Michelle Pullen


