Meet our Counsellors

Steve Ayling, originally from Birmingham, UK, earned his B.Ed. (Hons) in 1999 from Exeter University and his Masters (MSc) from the State University of New York in 2010.

He earned his Certification of International School Counselling through the Counsellor Training Center (CTC) Program and spent fifteen years at IS Manila, Philippines in both ES and MS classrooms prior to successfully transitioning into High School and then Junior School counselling.

As a seasoned educator, I bring nearly 20 years of extensive experience in the field of education. Originally from Michigan, USA, I have spent the last 17 years abroad, gaining valuable experience in diverse educational settings. I hold a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree in Education, as well as a Counseling Certification. My time at International School Manila spanned 13 years, where I served as a Classroom Teacher, Grade Level Program Leader, certified EAL Teacher, and Wellbeing Teacher. Driven by my passion for student wellbeing, I transitioned into counselling and have been a dedicated part-time member of the Junior School Counselling Team at ISB for the past two years.

I am committed to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for students, parents, and teachers at ISB. Please feel free to contact me or visit my office to introduce yourself. I look forward to building meaningful relationships and providing support to individuals throughout our community.

Emma is a qualified psychologist and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist. She has worked at the University of Basel psychotherapy clinic for the last 10 years, supporting adolescents and their families from international communities in the area. Emma has recently graduated with a PhD in psychological interventions. Her research focuses on TCK well-being.

Emma is established with her family which includes her husband, three children and two dogs, just across the border in France.

Hayley Milner has been working for the past fifteen years in schools across Australia, Thailand and Switzerland. Her education background includes a BA in Applied Theatre, a graduate degree in Education (Secondary Drama & English) and Masters in Counselling. 

Her passion lies in the development of the whole child ensuring their health and well-being in and outside of the classroom. She is looking forward to building relationships with students, parents and community while collaborating with Steve Ayling to support our middle school students. 

I am originally from New Zealand and moved to Switzerland with my wife in October, 2023. I studied educational psychology at the University of Otago, Wellington and in the US. I have been fortunate to have diverse and international experiences working as a psychologist, researcher counsellor in New Zealand, England, Canada and now Switzerland.  While my PhD focused on digital mental health during COVID-19, I am interested in helping children expand their repertoire of skills so that they are best prepared for their future. I am very excited to be part of such an experienced and friendly team.

Jo is a Child and Adolescent Psychologist who brings over 12 years of experience working in community mental health services (CAMHS) in Scotland. She has a solid reputation of building relationships with young people and their families and is trained in many therapeutic interventions and international parenting programmes. She has lectured at a number of Scottish Universities on child and adolescent development and psychological theory.

Additionally, Jo is a yoga teacher and fitness instructor, passionate about considering individuals holistically and contributing to their overall resilience and well-being.