Define

The DEFINE section of the ASCA Nation Model has been influential in my approach to school counseling by understanding gaps and improving student academic outcome. My development in the DEFINE section has assisted in my comprehension of the ASCA Student Standards to provide effective interventions and preventative methods with the use of evidence-based data.

With hands on experience and feedback from my site supervisor they were able to guide me through my struggles on ASCA Student Standards practices. One of the most impactful experiences involves working with students that struggle with behavioral issues and being removed from class. While working with these students I was able to utilize standards B-SMS 7 effective coping skills and M 4: self confidence in ability to succeed to assist in interventions. With the use of individual sessions, we were able to focus on coping skills and self-advocacy. I also collaborated with the Vice Principal to create a behavior plan for a student that incorporated direct counseling services and indirect support, such as teacher communication and parent involvement. This experience strengthened my understanding of the importance of interventions with standards that can be measurable outcomes to promote equity.

At the beginning of my practicum, I found it challenging to implement techniques that were tailored to each student’s needs. With that being the case my growth in using evidence-based strategies has helped in my development of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into sessions. Using CBT with students experiencing emotional behaviors to develop problem solving skills. This method helps students to empower them in their progress. Another level of growth was in prevention, which is just as important. This area allowed me to collaborate with teachers to discuss strategies to incorporate in the room that coincides with the Vice Principal with a behavior plan that may include access to a different area to utilize coping skills before students escalate.

By observing my site supervisor’s ability to remain neutral and validate both teachers and students it has inspired me to adopt a similar approach in my counseling approach. My practicum experience has shown me that counseling is an ongoing field that requires continuous learning and evolving. I plan to deepen my knowledge of evidence-based strategies by exploring additional methods and tailoring my approach to the diverse needs of students. 

American School Counselor Association. (2021b). The ASCA mindsets & behaviors for student success: K-12 college-and career readiness for every student (pp. 1–6). https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/7428a787-a452-4abb-afec-d78ec77870cd/Mindsets-Behaviors.pdf