03/09/2026
Supporting Student Wellbeing: Incidental Counsellor Workshop
How do we respond when we notice that a fellow student may be struggling?
We were delighted to have Sarah Boomer, Student Wellbeing Consultant and Jamie Ball, Sports and Recreation Manager at Murdoch University, join our Singapore team for an engaging and practical Incidental Counsellor Workshop.
The session explored how staff and students, even in non-clinical roles, can play an important part in supporting wellbeing. We discussed how to recognise signs of distress, approach difficult conversations with empathy, understand our own professional boundaries, and connect students with appropriate support when needed.
One particularly valuable takeaway was that supporting someone does not mean having all the answers. Sometimes it begins simply by noticing a change, asking if someone is okay, listening without judgement and showing genuine empathy.
The workshop also highlighted the importance of knowing when to refer students for further support and, where possible, providing a warm handover rather than simply directing them elsewhere.
And just as importantly, Sarah reminded us that those supporting others also need to look after themselves, with self-care helping to build resilience, manage stress and reduce burnout.
Thank you, Sarah, for such an insightful and interactive session, and for creating a safe space for thoughtful discussion and learning.
Murdoch University Kaplan Singapore Kaplan Campus Life
