Counselor’s Role
What does the school counselor do?
Individual Counseling
- Students can meet individually with the counselor on a weekly-basis when needed. Students can be referred for individual counseling by parents, teachers, students, or by the counselor.
Group Counseling
- Groups are developed to help target student development of skills such as self-esteem, team building, social skills, anger management, friendship, coping with grief, or organizational skills. Group topics rotate throughout the school year.
- Groups are run by the school counselor and are available to all students. Students may be referred to groups by teachers, parents, or the counselor.
Classroom Guidance Curriculum
- The school counselor will go into the classrooms multiple times a year to deliver preventative or informative curriculum to all students; for example, delivering a guidance lesson on information about the high school application process, or on cyber bullying.
Systems Support
- The school counselor is available for consultation with teachers, parents, and other professionals as needed. Collaboration can take place through individual conferences, group meetings, or professional development. Counselors may also make referrals to outside resources for additional student assistance. The counselor also supports the teachers’ implementation of Second Step, which is our social/emotional curriculum that focuses on empathy building, problem-solving skills, and anger management.
Responsive Services
- The school counselor is available to assist students with the experience of a crisis. The counselor is also available to respond to any immediate issues or student concerns that happen during the school hours that prevent the student from actively participating and engaging in the classroom.
