Response Services

Response services generally should take up the least amount of time for school counselors however, COVID has increased the need for response services. Response services are considered a Tier 3 and 4 intervention. Identifying the appropriate means to providing intervention at this level is dependent on the individual student's need. The following are examples of strategies for meeting student needs within response services.


Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)

is a short term and goal focused evidence based therapeutic approach. This approach focuses on finding the solution rather than focusing on the problem and focuses on the future rather than the past.


Dialect Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

focuses more on mindfulness and the present rather than the future. DBT is most helpful with adolescents who may be suffering from trauma. This theory also promotes the acceptance of what one is feeling while also accepting that the emotion does not have to control them.

BEING TRAUMA INFORMED - Big "T" vs Little "t" Trauma

One of the core needs of humans is the need to feel safe. The limbic system is a part of the body that responds to threats as in fight or flight. The limbic system also manages how we experience attachment with others and how emotions are evoked. When the brain is in fight or flight the prefrontal cortex can not function and therefore, it leaves the individual unable to think about their thinking. Trauma has been a hot topic and the definition of trauma has increased beyond PTSD and war veterans. Many Psychologist have coined the difference between little "t" trauma and big "T" trauma. The diagram below gives and example of the various traumas that students on campus may experience. It is important to be aware of this as we seek to respond to students in various situations.


SMALL GROUPS

During my Fall 2021 Internship I led a small group focused on relational aggression. The topics discussed included:

  • Friendship characteristics

  • Cycle of Revenge

  • Appropriate and inappropriate language

I find that students need time and space to process inter-relational issues and conflicts. It is also a way for students to establish trust and build rapport. The key to having a successful group is to have well established guidelines that create a safe place for students to share. Small groups can be considered a Tier 2 or 3 intervention and a way for students to get additional support and encouragement. Groups are also helpful for allowing students to see different perspectives and learn from one another.