Congratulations, Mr. Webster!

A. Yes, I just obtained my master's from UBC (all 54 credits!) and presented my thesis to a panel of CCPA academics and students. My thesis, “What Boys Say: Forming Bonds with Others,” is about how boys form relationships. The more counsellors know about this process, the better able they are to establish strong connections, which leads to better therapeutic outcomes.

A. I can’t say anything truly surprised me, but one interesting thing is that boys form relationships over time and in multiple contexts, which are usually activity based. Boys do have a tougher time expressing their feelings, with others and in a counselling environment; the stereotype that boys don’t cry or seek counselling is still perpetuated.  

A. Unfortunately, yes, for both students and parents. Counselling is often perceived—even today—as reactive and as a sign of weakness, when in fact the opposite is true. Enlisting a professional counsellor to bounce ideas off of, to help you work through problems, and to explore solutions is a very proactive, preventative process.

A. They can call or email us or swing by our office or grab us in the hall. I also get referrals from teachers and parents. Peer referrals are common, too. Junior school families are encouraged to contact my colleagues Ms. Krista Scaligine and Ms. Kirsten Bowles.

A. It’s a huge privilege to work with our students and their families. I also feel fortunate to work in a school where counselling is valued as a department—many schools have only part-time or district counsellors.

A. Anxiety and depression are the most common issues among teens, and research shows they go hand in hand. Prevention is key. Families need to sit down and examine their child’s work and activity load on a regular basis—work-life balance applies to students, too! Ask whether the activities are realistic, purposeful, and most importantly, enjoyable! If not, it's okay to decide not to continue with an activity. It's also okay--in fact, it’s healthy—to fail. Allowing kids to fail (or at the very least not to excel in everything they do) builds character, a sense of self, and resilience.

A. Exercise, a nutritious diet and quality sleep are essential. In particular, deep REM sleep is critical to physical and emotional wellbeing.  

A: Photography is a big escape for me, and I enjoy cycling (I’ve done two bike trips through France) and snowboarding. I also love to travel and spend time with my wife and daughter Èlia, who is 18 months.

A. Yes, we often make paella, and always have Spanish red wine and manchego cheese on hand!