Counseling Services & Programs

What happens in a counseling session?

Counselors use a variety of approaches depending on the need. We do age-appropriate activities with students to help give them the coping skills that they need. Some examples of activities are bibliotherapy (reading and talking about a book covering the topic the child is dealing with--divorce, anxiety, social skills, etc.), teaching the student to use self-talk (things they can tell themselves or think when they have strong feelings), art therapy (such as drawing a picture of their worries), and helping them understand and cope with feelings. Counselors do not provide  intensive psychotherapy or long-term counseling. We simply help students learn the skills to cope with whatever their needs are.

Individual Counseling

Short term individual and crisis counseling for students who have a need that is better suited for one on one support. Individual meetings with students consist of brief, solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to assist children with needs that affect them during the school day. Sessions are limited and referrals to outside providers/agencies can be given upon request when more in-depth, longer term counseling is appropriate. 

Group Counseling

Group Counseling is available to students for a variety of needs. Some small groups may be more general to develop friendship, resiliency, social skills, etc. However, other small groups may be more specific for students experiencing family changes, grief, or needing help with anxiety, self esteem, or anger management. 

Classroom Counseling (Guidance) Lessons

Classroom Counseling lessons are meant to further develop students' self awareness, emotional intelligence, interpersonal/relationship skills, social awareness, and responsible decision making skills. Lesson topics and activities are age appropriate and occur regularly in students' classrooms throughout the year. 

Collaboration & Consultation

Collaboration and consultation with parents/guardians and staff is available to assist with planning and problem solving to better meet students' academic and social-emotional needs. 

• Second Step SEL Curriculum 

• Character Club

• College and Career Readiness

• Middle School Transition

• HS PALs (Peer Assistance and Leadership) and student mentors

• Weekend Food Bags

• Connection to community resources and agencies