Counselling
Johnston Heights Counselling Department
| Last Name | First Name | Email Address | Job Title | Section |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Tifenbach | Tracy | Counsellor | A-Dhal | |
Kaila | Anjeet | Counsellor | Dhan-Lad | |
McLean | James | Counsellor | Lak-Re | |
Peterson | Kelly | Counsellor | Rho-Z |
The Johnston Heights Counselling Department is committed to supporting the academic, personal, social, emotional, and career development of every student. High school is a time of growth, exploration, and transition, and our counsellors work collaboratively with students, families, teachers, and community partners to help students navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
We believe that every student deserves to feel connected, supported, and empowered. Whether students are planning for graduation, exploring post-secondary pathways, seeking support for personal concerns, or developing strategies for success in school, our counselling team is here to help.
Through a student-centered and strengths-based approach, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where all students feel valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Our Mission
The mission of the JH Counselling Department is to foster student well-being, belonging, resilience, and achievement by providing equitable, compassionate, and responsive support for all learners.
We are committed to:
- Supporting the academic success and graduation goals of every student.
- Promoting positive mental health, wellness, and social-emotional development.
- Empowering students to make informed decisions about their education, careers, and future pathways.
- Advocating for equity, inclusion, and access to support for all learners.
- Building meaningful partnerships with families, school staff, and community agencies.
- Encouraging students to develop the confidence, skills, and self-awareness needed to thrive in school and beyond.
Together, we work to ensure that every student feels connected, supported, and prepared for a successful future.
Connecting with Your Counsellor
Students and families are encouraged to reach out whenever they have questions, concerns, or require support. Our counselling team is committed to providing timely assistance and helping students access the resources they need to be successful.
Students can connect directly with their counsellor through:
- School email
- A private Microsoft Teams message
- In-person appointments arranged through the Counselling Centre, before classes, at lunch or after school
Families are welcome to contact counsellors by email to discuss academic planning, graduation requirements, post-secondary pathways, attendance concerns, student well-being, or other school-related matters.
When contacting a counsellor, please include the student's full name and grade to help us respond as efficiently as possible.
The Counselling Department values open communication and collaborative partnerships with students and families. We encourage you to reach out whenever support, guidance, or information is needed.
Our Services
The Counselling Department provides support in the following areas:
- Academic planning and course selection
- Graduation requirements and post-secondary planning
- Scholarship and bursary information
- Career exploration and pathway planning
- Social-emotional and mental health support
- Conflict resolution and problem-solving
- Referrals to school and community resources
- Transition planning for new and graduating students
- Family consultation and support
Students are encouraged to connect with their counsellor whenever they need guidance, support, or someone to talk to. We are here to help.
Useful Resources and Links:
- Kids Help Phone https://kidshelpphone.ca/ (24/7 service via text, phone or live chat)
- Anxiety Canada https://www.anxietycanada.com/
- Foundry (Counselling Services) https://foundrybc.ca/
- Here to Help https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/
- Erase https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/erase
- Mindfulness for Teens https://www.mindfulnessforteens.com/guided-meditations
- Suicide Crisis Prevention Line (toll free) 1-800-784-2433 or (604) 872-3311 (24/7 confidential, non-judgemental, free emotional support for people; experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide. Available in 140 languages)
- Mental Health Support line open for all ages 24/7 (604-310-6789)
- Child and Youth Mental Health Clinics https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/mental-health-substance-use/child-teen-mental-health
Post-Secondary Links:
- Education Planner BC https://educationplannerbc.ca/
- Student Transcript Service (STS) https://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/exams/tsw/tsw/student/
- Graduation Requirement information https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/support/graduation
- Graduation Assessments – Literacy and Numeracy https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/administration/program-management/assessment/graduation
