Comprehensive Guidance and Counseling services are available to all students at R.C. Murphy Middle School. In addition, a specific program emphasis defines each academic year – orientation and successful adjustment in seventh grade; increasing engagement in school activities in order to prepare for the high school transition in eighth grade; ninth grade guidance emphasizes maintaining a good work ethic while preparing for the transition to senior high school. The comprehensive services provided by counselors include academic advisement, scheduling modifications, personal, vocational, and social skills counseling, crisis intervention, parent and teacher consultation, maintenance and interpretation of academic records, information services, and referral to in or out of school resources for student support. 

School social workers provide clinical assessment, crisis intervention, individual and small group counseling, and referral services to outside agencies or therapists for students and/or their families. The social worker monitors student attendance and intervenes when appropriate or necessary. In situations where a student is unable to attend school on a regular basis, the social worker may make home visits. As a member of several committees, including the Committee on Special Education (CSE), the Sub-Committee on Special Education (SCSE), and the Instructional Support Team (IST), the school social worker helps to develop and/or implement programs and policies that enhance a student’s well-being and academic success. Member of Substance Abuse, Anti-Bullying, and Positive Behavior Intervention and Support Committees at the middle school level. 

School psychologists assist students academically, socially, and emotionally through collaboration with educators, parents, and other professionals. Psychological counseling is provided for students who need assistance in resolving social-emotional difficulties that interfere with school performance. When appropriate, Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) are conducted and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) are developed to intervene with behaviors that impede students’ academic functioning. Psychologists conduct psycho-educational evaluations to assess students’ mental health status and aptitude for learning to determine eligibility for special education services. In addition, school psychologists serve as integral members of the Committee on Special Education (CSE), Sub-Committee on Special Education (SCSE), 504 Committee, Instructional Support Team (IST), and Crisis Response Team at the middle school level. The school psychologist strives to establish a safe and supportive learning environment for students while strengthening connections between home and school. 

The Student Assistance Services Social Worker provides district-wide drug prevention and intervention services. This may include alcohol, tobacco, vaping, and other drug-related concerns. The services are offered as individual counseling, group counseling, and working with all students—including those at the middle school level—to build prevention skills and knowledge about concerning topics. The Student Assistance Services Counselor coordinates parent and faculty presentations on prevention strategies and connects students to larger community initiatives to build awareness.