What is an elementary school counselor?

• A certified, specially-trained professional
• A special friend when a child needs someone to listen
• A caring person who provides help and guidance to teachers, parents, students, and administrators
• Someone who counsels with students both individually and in groups

What does an elementary school counselor do?

• Conducts a developmental guidance and counseling program that aligns with the American School Counseling Association standards
• Works with classes, groups of children, and individuals
• Conducts staff development for faculty as needed
• Utilizes referral services and community resources
• Conducts parent and teacher conferences
• Coordinates several programs to help our community
• Provides individual counseling to
  • help students develop communication skills
  • help students develop positive interpersonal relationship skills
  • help students set positive goals, exercise responsibility and improve academic success
  • help provide support during a crisis

A child may see the counselor for:

• Review and discussion of academic needs
• Any problems that they may have
• A loss of a family member or close friend
• Decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Improvement and aid in the development of positive self-esteem
• Family concerns or fears
• Developing and increasing social and organizational skills