What does an elementary school counselor do?

• Helps ALL children
• Teaches classroom guidance lesson
• Works with children individually and in small group
• Consults with parents and teachers
• Conducts parent workshops
• Assists with crisis intervention

How does a student get to see the counselor?

• The student may ask to go to the counselor’s office
• A parent, teacher and/or administrator can refer a student
• A school friend may invite him or her for a special visit

What might a student talk about while in the counseling office?

• Feelings about him/herself
• Difficulty in making or getting along with friends
• A family problem
• A school problem
• A fear or worry
• A physical concern
• The need for a little tender loving care

What might a student do in the counselor’s office?

• Talk about things that are important to children
• Use puppets to help express feelings and problems
• Talk about feelings
• Work on a plan to reach a goal
• Read stories
• Go to a safe place to calm down when feeling upset
• Play games to learn ways to relate to others

In any counseling situation, confidentiality is maintained except:

1. In cases of suspected abuse or neglect.
2. If a child poses a danger to self or others.
3. The child and/or parent/guardian gives permission to share information.