Small group counseling is offered to students to support and enhance the development of personal, social skills and to support and promote educational success. Small groups provide not only additional social-emotional learning experiences but also allows the students a chance to belong, a chance to express themselves, and a chance to benefit from the support of group members.
Groups are offered on an "as needed" basis. Children may be referred to certain groups by parents, teachers, or themselves. While students are encouraged to share with their parents about group and what they are doing and learning, they agree to keep confidential personal information shared by other students.
Below is a list of some of the small groups that may be offered during the school year based on student needs:
Anger Control - intended for students who need or would like to work on dealing and managing their angry feelings in a positive way. Group will explore the triggers of our anger and then build the skills to handle that area more effectively.
Changing Families - This group is for students whose family structure is in a state of change due to separation, divorce, or remarriage. Students will gain support from other students dealing with the same issues, and learn how to mange the “roller coaster ride” of feelings they may have due to the change.
Feelings - This group is a great way for students to learn more about their feelings, the feelings of others, and identifying and expressing their feelings appropriately.
Friendship - Children need the acceptance and the support of their peers. The friendship group is intended for students who need or would like to work on strengthening their friendship skills. The group will focus on acknowledging and strengthen our friendship qualities we have to offer others, how to connect and communicate with others, building friendly behaviors and dealing with friendship problems.
Grief and Loss - This group is for students who have experienced the death and/or serious illness of a loved one within the past few years and whose grief may be interfering with his or her life.
School Success Skills - Being successful in school is the foundation to a student's future. School Success Skills group will explore and strengthen the skills for school success. Depending on the specific needs of the group, the group may focus on listening and attending skills, organization, study tips, homework tips, test taking tips, and attitude.
Self-Concept - Building and maintaining a positive self-concept is important in being a happy, productive person. In group we will focus on appreciating our strengths and the things we can do well, and then developing positive thoughts and skills to handle when things don't go right.