What is a School Counselor?

A School Counselor is an educator who:

• Advocates for the student at school

• Provides individual and small group counseling

• Works with teachers and parents to provide suggestions and support for children’s needs

• Provides classroom guidance for all grade levels

• Helps in identifying academic and social/emotional needs of children

• Helps children understand themselves and others

• Provides information about community resources that would benefit children

• Provides parents with resources and information

Individual Counseling:

The student and School Counselor will work together to establish individual goals related to the student's initial concern. Parents and teachers can make referrals for individual counseling services via email or by contacting the School Counselor directly. When a staff member refers to a student, parents are made aware. A School Counselor provides short-term counseling as needed. This can be done in person or virtually.

Small Group Counseling:

Small group counseling provides a supportive environment for students to express their thoughts and feelings about particular topics with their peers. Parents, the School Counselor, and teachers can refer students for a group experience on topics such as self-regulation, mindfulness strategies, healthy friendships, and study skills. Students can also refer themselves. Parental permission is required for group participation.

Classroom Lessons:

Classroom counseling lessons are provided to all classes K-5 and will focus on academic, emotional, and social well-being. The school counselor will work with classroom teachers to identify particular areas of need for that specific grade level/classroom.

Resources:

The School Counselor is available to consult with parents, school staff, and community agencies in order to best meet the individual needs of all students. Parent consultations can focus upon areas of concern at school or home. Teacher consultations can cover social, emotional, or academic concerns and goals, classroom interventions, behavior management, and community building. Resources are available for teachers to assist in behavior management, personal/social development, and academic interventions.