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Individual Counseling

Individual Counseling is by student, teacher or parental request.  My goal is to develop a relationship with the student to facilitate a positive change in the student’s world.  School counseling is not therapy, but it is a learning process where a student can begin to understand how to solve/work through individual issues. Sessions may occur once or on an ongoing basis and are coordinated with the classroom teacher to minimize academic disruption. Topics most often discussed include Organization/Study Skills, Dealing with Divorce, Coming to terms with Death/Grief, Forming Friendships/Positive Relationships, Impulse Control, Creation of or Support with Behavioral Plans, or as a supportive component of a multi-disciplinary 504 Plan. 

 

Small Group Counseling

Small Group Counseling occurs based on school and student needs and are by invitation or recommendation. I have found that the positive peer interaction found in a supportive group environment serves as a catalyst for positive change. These groups vary in content and generally meet once/week over a 4-6 week period, though some are longer in duration.  A variety of techniques based on grade level are used to maintain an energized session: role play, games, drawing, skits, journaling, crafts.  Topics include Sportsmanship, Positive Attitude, Responsibility and Respect Refreshers. I have found that small groups are a wonderfully efficient venue for getting to know our students while providing them with optimal attention and topic reinforcement.

 

Additional Guidance Supports

LUNCH BUNCHES: In addition, to the structured counseling sessions and lessons, I enjoy sharing lunch time with students during our very popular, informal ‘lunch bunches.’ I have several games that students enjoy playing during their lunch break – including Connect Four – which is a great foundation for good sportsmanship, being a gracious winner and a supportive loser! We  have also had lunch bunches where we create unique friendship bracelets that we then “gift” to one another.  Students give compliments to each other on their creations while maintaining person-to-person eye contact... perhaps a lost art in this age of texting!

 

MONTHLY CHARACTER CALENDAR: Each month I contribute a Character Calendar that is shared with all classes focusing on a 'thought' for each day focusing on positive character.

 

PARENT CONFERENCES: I am available to discuss individual parental concerns at any time either by phone or in person.  I will work with you to assess your student’s situation and advise whether in school counseling is warranted or would be beneficial.  I can also provide you with outside resources that might suit your student’s needs more fully. I work closely with the Child Study Team and with our Social Worker who has additional community resources available.

 

ANTI-BULLYING COORDINATOR: As part of Governor Chris Christie’s Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights, each school district has appointed an anti-bullying coordinator and an anti-bullying specialist effective September 2011. I am the coordinator for Washington Township School District and Jenn McKenna, School Psychologist is the Specialist for Port Colden and Brass Castle Schools.