Counseling Referral Process

PARENT PERMISSION FORMS

Ways to refer a child to counseling: 

• A teacher or other adult at school may refer a student to see the counselor

• A parent may refer their child to see the counselor by talking to the teacher or the administrator, or contacting the school counselor directly

• A student may refer themselves by talking to their teacher, parent or school counselor.  Parental permission is needed for any child to meet with the counselor unless it is a one time emergency situation.

How to set up an appointment with the school counselor:

• Call the school and ask to talk to Ms. Jana  (Central Elementary 801-610-8104 OR Trailside Elementary 801-610-8125)

• Email Ms. Jana at janawiltbank@alpinedistrict.org

What is the process for a child to meet with the counselor?

• A parent permission form needs to be filled out (see link at the top of this page)

• Typically, counselor visits are planned in advance. However, if there is an incident where the student unexpectedly requires counselor support, a student may legally visit with the counselor one time before a parent permission form is signed

• The counselor typically works with students 6-8 times. If further help is needed, appropriate referrals will be shared

Reasons for a child to visit with the school counselor:

• If  your child is worried about something at home or at school that may affect his/her ability to learn

• If your child is having trouble with relationships with peers at school

• If you are concerned about your child's personal development

• If your child is struggling with big changes in his/her life (divorce, death, moving etc.)

• If your child is aware of someone getting hurt

• If someone is hurting your child

• If your child has any thoughts of hurting himself/herself in any way

• If your child needs another good cheerleader in their life! :)

What does the school counselor do?

• The counselor teaches monthly social-emotional wellness lessons in every classroom

• The counselor works on targeted skills with individual students and small groups as needed (6-8 weeks) - the counselor is NOT a therapist. 

• The counselor provides referrals for outside services for students who may need a little extra support

• The counselor helps every child feel safe, connected and confident at school - that is the goal of every adult in our school!

When should a child see the school counselor?

• When a student requires more support than the teacher can reasonably give in the classroom

• When a student needs individual help learning specific social-emotional skills that will help him/her have a positive experience at school 

• When he/she does not know who to turn to for support