Small Group Counseling

As part of the comprehensive counseling program, small group counseling sessions are offered for those students who need extra support in academic and/or personal social development.  Group counseling is a positive way for students who share common difficulties to learn from one another, as well as the group  facilitator, in a safe environment.  Sessions are typically 30 minutes long, run for 6-8 weeks and consist of 3-6 students per group.  Sessions focus on assisting children with exploring and expressing feelings, problem solving, goal-setting, making good choices, acquiring coping skills and enhancing self-esteem.  Group topics may include:

• self-esteem

• friendship skills

• social skills

• grief

• family changes

• managing emotions

• anger management

• worry/anxiety

• self-control/impulsivity

Typically, students are referred to counseling by administrators and teachers. However, parents are welcome  to refer their child for a check in with the counselor.  If you would like to refer your child to counseling, please complete a referral form and submit it to the school counselor through the main office or your child's teacher.

Please keep in mind that students are selected for groups based on need and referral, and a group setting is not always appropriate for every student.  Students will be selected for groups based on need and referral.

Individual Counseling

Individual counseling can be requested by teachers, parents, and/or administration. We do not offer continuous individual counseling. Sessions typically run for 4-6 weeks. If there is a need for continuous counseling, the counselor will meet with the parent for a referral in the community. If you would  like your child to meet with the school counselor for a  "check-in" or meeting regarding a specific issue, please contact me so we can discuss further options and possibly schedule a time for a meeting.

CLASSROOM GUIDANCE LESSONS

Throughout the year, all students will have access to counseling curriculum through counseling guidance lessons.  The lessons will be provided during library time. A communication will always be sent home to let parents know that the counselor has visited their child's classroom. The communication home will include information about the lesson that was presented, as well as some follow up steps that might be helpful for you at home.

All students at each grade level (2nd-5th) will receive a welcome lesson from the school counselor during the first few weeks of school and an age-appropriate college and career readiness lesson throughout the year.