What role does a school counselor play?
Many people do not know what school counselors do. In the past, they were called “guidance counselors’ and mainly worked in high schools preparing students for college and work. Times have changed! Now schools have Professional School Counselors and implement Comprehensive School Counseling Programs. These school counseling programs have structure but adapt to the needs of the school, students, and the community.
Our comprehensive school counseling program provides classroom instruction to all the students in areas of academic, career,and personal/social development. These classes include character education, life skills and programs of safety and prevention. Group and individual counseling services are available and deal with a variety of issues including divorce, grief, anger, self esteem, etc. The school counselor provides systems support, immediate support during crisis and advocates for all students. School counselors provide collaboration, consultations, and referrals to outside agencies. The school counselor is an integral part of the school team and assists with helping students be the best they can be.
What might a student talk about while in the counseling office?
- feelings about him/herself
- difficulty in making or getting along with friend
- a family problem
- a school problem
- a fear or worry
- the need for a little tender loving care
- being bullied
How does a student get to see the counselor?
- student may ask to go to the counselor’s office or fill out a special kid’s referral form
- teacher or principal can send him or her
- Mom, Dad or another care provider can request counseling services
- school friend may invite him or her for a special visit
What does a Professional School Counselor do?
- Helps ALL children
- Teach classroom guidance lessons dealing with understanding of self andothers, communication skills, decision making skills, conflict resolution skills,bullies, personal safety, and career exploration
- Works with children individually and in small groups
- Consults with parents and teachers.
What might a student do in the counselor’s office?
- talk about things that are important to children
- use drawing to help express feelings and problems
- talk about feelings
- work on a plan to reach a goal
- read stories that help students learn and understand more about themselves
- go to a safe place to calm down when feeling upset
- play games to learn ways to relate to others