Bellarmine’s Personal Counseling Department is dedicated to fostering the holistic development of each student, embodying our philosophy of cura personalis, or "care for the whole person." Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, this approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of every student, recognizing that academic success is intertwined with emotional, social, and personal well-being.
Upon entering Bellarmine, all students are assigned to a Personal Counselor at the beginning of their freshman year, affording our counselors maximum time to get to know their students on a more personal level. In the second semester of the junior year, students are assigned to a college counselor who guides them through the college application process.
Comprehensive Counseling Program
- Academic Counseling: Our counselors work closely with students to set and achieve academic goals, guiding them through course selection, study skills, and time management. We provide resources and support for those facing academic challenges, ensuring that every student has the tools they need to succeed.
- Social-Emotional Counseling: Recognizing the importance of mental health, our social-emotional counseling services focus on helping students navigate the complexities of adolescence. We offer individual and group sessions that address issues such as stress management, anxiety, and interpersonal relationships. Our counselors are trained to create a safe and supportive environment where students can explore their feelings and develop coping strategies.
- Personal Counseling: The personal counseling aspect of our department is dedicated to helping students with life skills and personal development. Whether it's dealing with family issues, self-esteem challenges, or planning, our counselors provide confidential guidance and support tailored to each student's circumstances. We also facilitate discussions on topics such as conflict resolution, decision-making, and healthy relationships.
- Bellarmine counselors teach 10th – 12th Grade CURA. Once a month, during “CURA period,” students will attend their CURA session, led by their Personal Counselor. CURA is a safe venue for discussion of a variety of topics ranging from developing social-emotional skills, fostering healthy personal growth, to preparing for college. On non-scheduled CURA days, students can use the time to work on homework or take a break during a busy day.
Overall, Bellarmine’s Personal Counseling services strive to empower students to make informed decisions about their educational paths, ensuring they develop a balanced, enriching, and fulfilling high school experience.