What Is School Counseling?

School counseling is brief, school-based support designed to help students be successful socially, emotionally, and behaviorally during the school day.

Students may meet with the school counselor for help with things such as:

• Friendship and peer concerns

• Managing stress, frustration, or big emotions

• Adjusting to changes at school or home

• Problem-solving and decision-making

• Coping and self-regulation skills

• Communication and social skills

• Other concerns that may affect a student at school

School counseling is not the same as therapy. The school counselor does not diagnose mental health conditions or provide ongoing, intensive psychotherapy. When a student needs support beyond what can appropriately be provided at school, families may be encouraged to connect with an outside mental health professional.

School counseling is intended to provide students with short-term support, practical skills, and a trusted adult at school while partnering with families and other professionals when appropriate.

A Note About Parent Consent: A signed Parent/Guardian Consent Form allows your child to access brief, school-based counseling support when needed; it does not mean your child will meet with the counselor regularly or begin an ongoing therapeutic relationship. Consent must be on file for individual visits after a student's first visit, including brief check-ins and student-initiated drop-ins.