Small guidance groups are mini-fun detours in our academic journey. If a student struggles to make it through their academic day then a small guidance group might be an avenue to pursue. Small guidance groups are geared towards guiding students with “coping” skills so they can take care of themselves through life’s struggles. The role of a school counselor is to assist in keeping the students in class as much as possible. Small guidance groups are skill and focused based, not therapy–processing based groups. Skills in small guidance groups are taught through activities, games, books, discussions, etc. The goal is to have students in a group setting; however, there can be exceptions. If you feel that your child may need to have individual guidance meetings with me, please call me.
Topics being offered: dealing with feelings: ex. anxiety & anger, social skills, school performance, or special needs as they arise (call Mrs. Garwacki to discuss). Several groups will be specific objective based-see permission slip link at the bottom of this page if you are interested in exploring the topics more in depth. Groups meet 4-6 times for 15-30 minutes. The groups/individual times pulled can vary; however, I do my best to work with your child's teacher on the best time as well as we try to meet during lunch times when possible.
These topics are offered based on parent, teacher, or student referral. A signed parent permission slip is required for participation. Only one parent needs to sign the permission slip. Group permission forms are available from your child's teacher or by contacting Mrs. Garwacki at 469-633-2604.
If you feel that your child needs more of a one-on-one clinical therapy setting you may request a district therapy referral list by signing a permission slip asking for the referral list (FISD referral counseling request form). Frisco ISD does not advocate or recommend a specific agency, program or service. This information is supplied as a reference if you choose to use it.
If at anytime you realize that your child could benefit from one of the small guidance groups please fill out the permission slip and turn the form either to your child's teacher or to Mrs. Garwacki. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 469-633-2604 or www.garwackL@friscoisd.org.
My primary goal is to be an adjunct assistant to the teachers in helping to provide needed support to our students so they can be successful here at school.
Smiles,
Mrs. Garwacki