Meet the Laytonsville Elementary School Counselor
Ms. Cherie Ward

Counselor's Corner

What Does a Counselor Do?

• Talks to students individually or in groups

• Visits classrooms and participates in classroom activities

• Helps identify needs of students

• Helps students learn how to get along together

• Works together with teachers and parents to help students

• Coordinates efforts with other school specialists

From Whom Does the Counselor Get Help?

• Teachers and parents

• Principals

• Pupil personnel workers

• Doctors, psychologists and other health professionals

A Counselor Is...

• A certified, trained, caring person

• A resource person, a coordinator, a consultant, and a group leader

• A person who helps people understand children

• A person who helps children understand themsevles

Where Can You See the Counselor?

• In the counselor's office

• In the classroom

• In the cafeteria

• In the hallway

• Outside the school

How Can a Student See the Counselor?

• Self referral

• Parent referral

• Teacher or principal referral

A Counselor Counsels Students Individually and in Groups to...

• Help students develop self understanding and self awareness

• Help students increase self-confidence and self-esteem

• Help students recognize and use their capabilities

• Give students a chance to talk about education and social concerns

• Help students recognize, understand and work through learning differences

• Help students adjust to their school and home environments

• Help students in the decision making process

How Does a Counselor Know About Current Ideas In Counseling?

• In service training sessions

• Workshops and seminars

• Conventions and conferences

• Regular counselor meetings

• Continuing education classes

• County, state, and national meetings

A Counselor's Job Requires These Qualifications

• Graduate degree in counseling from an approved college program

• Maryland state certification

• A caring, sensitive personality

• A love of children