Counseling

In general, a school counselor focuses on the following areas of development:

• Academic
• Career
• Social/Emotional

Why Middle School Counselors? 

Middle school students are characterized by rapid physical growth, curiosity about their world and an emerging self-identity. Middle school counselors have an impact on these years by implementing a school counseling program and collaborating with school staff, parents and the community to create a safe, respectful learning environment whereby young adolescents can maximize personal and academic achievement. 

Middle school counselors enhance the learning process and promote academic, career and social/emotional development. School counseling programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set informed career goals and realize full academic potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community. 

Middle school counselors hold a master’s degree and required state certification in school counseling. Maintaining certification includes ongoing professional development to stay current with education reform and challenges facing today’s students. Professional association membership enhances the school counselor’s knowledge and effectiveness.

(https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/7ed7a427-a87a-4609-a4e1-ee8e5358df29/Why-Middle.pdf)

Small groups are formed from students experiencing common concerns or need such as: stress/anxiety, friendship, decision making, study skills, grief or organizational skills. Students may refer themselves or be recommended by a teacher or parent. Student participation is based on need and group availability. 

The counselor will also work with students who are self-referred, teacher/staff referred, or parent-referred. Therapy services are not provided, but we can assist with short term problem solving or crisis support. A resource list for local agencies and outside counselors is available under our mental health page.

The counselor will deliver school counseling lessons throughout the school year. Depending on grade level, these lessons might include bullying/harassment, problem solving, suicide prevention, or career exploration.