Who Are the
School Counselors?

A school counselor has a master's degree in school counseling and is certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).

He or she is trained in human behavior, relationships, career development, and child development. 

The goal of a school counselor is to help students meet academic, career, social, emotional, and personal needs AND to help remove barriers to success.

There are counselors at the Elementary, Middle, and High School Levels.

School counselors follow the standards set by American School Counselors Association (ASCA) and PDE.

Individual Counseling - Meeting with students one-on-one to talk about thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and problems. School Counselors DO NOT provide long-term counseling, but are happy to refer families to a therapist.

Group Counseling - Working with 2 or more students that share similar concerns. Groups have discussions and structured activities for students to learn and practice new skills.

Guidance Lessons - Teaching lessons to classes of students based on the developmental level and the needs of students. Lessons focus on social, emotional, behavioral, and career skills and growth. Topics include problem solving, developing coping skills, feelings, conflict resolution, diversity, and communication.

Consultation - Meeting with parents, teachers, staff, administrators, and representatives from outside agencies to support students. 

Referral - Referring families to outside agencies for support outside school.

Help students with issues related to:

• Strong Emotions (such as sadness, anger, anxiety, and worry)

• Family Concerns

• Grief and Loss

• Self-Esteem

• Social Skills

• Academic Concerns (motivation, study skills, stress management, etc.)

• Conflict Resolution

• Behavior Problems

• Crisis or Traumatic Events

• Other Mental Health Concerns

Questions and Concerns Regarding the following: 

• 504 (Chapter 15) agreements

• The Special Education and Gifted Referral Process

• Rostering Requests

• PSSAs

• Small Groups run by Caron Counselor

• Request by parent/guardian via email or phone call

• Referred by teacher, staff, or administrator

• Self-Referral: students can fill out a referral slip outside the counselors' doors or use the virtual referral form

  • • Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center Student Self-Referral Form - Mrs. Stem-Zmoda (Grades 3 & 4)

    • West Reading Elementary Student Self-Referral Form - Ms. Kramer (Grades 5 & 6)

• Appointments made by the school counselor

• Family Concerns

• Academic Achievement Concerns

• Crisis or Traumatic Event

• Students' Social or Emotional Difficulties

• Parenting Information

• Referrals for Resources and Support