Individual and Group Counseling

Individual and Group Counseling is provided for students who are in a state of transition and in need of support of someone who stands outside the situation. Students may be referred for counseling by a parent, a teacher or themselves. Typically, individual school counseling is short-term with a problem solving focus. Issues that a counselor might address with students: peer relations, school performance, anxiety, family change, grief, self-esteem, anger management, conflict resolution, new students or middle and high school transition.

Many times, students will request a visit with the counselor regarding a situation at school and we will meet briefly to try to resolve the situation, particularly if there has been a problem on the playground in the classroom, lunchroom, etc. with another student(s). These types of visits do not require prior permission from a parent, however I encourage students to go home and share with their family that we spoke and explain why we met. If the problem situation resulted in some type of consequence, the student will meet with the focus facilitator or principal. The counselor does not see students for discipline, but rather to assist in conflict resolution so that the student may return to class and have productive work time. If a student requires on-going counseling, the counselor will contact the parent to discuss the issues. Should students need more intense counseling; your counselor can assist you with information about resources in the community.

Group Counseling is an effective part of the guidance program for some children who have specialized needs but their concerns are similar to those of other students. These children come together to work through their common concerns. These groups require parental permission and groups are formed based on student need. Opportunities to participate in small groups, covering a variety of topics such as family change/divorce, grief, self-esteem, friendship, etc. are offered as the need arises throughout the school year. Students may be referred by teachers and parents who see a need.

Confidentiality is an important part of small group work, but it can be a difficult concept for kids. In order to avoid the problems that arise when students go home and tell their parents they can't share anything about group because "it's a secret," I usually explain it like this: each student can feel free to share what the topic was in group or what he or she said in group but not what other students have shared. Small groups are for sharing and problem-solving and all students should feel safe in their group.