Are You Still Not Sure About School Counseling Services?
FrequentlyAskedQuestions
How can I refer my child for counseling services?
You are more than welcome to call me at 919-496-4015 ext. 229, email me, send a note through your child, or complete the online contact form below. I will be glad to answer any questions about the counseling services at our school.
How can my child complete a self-referral?
Located outside of my room door (Room #221) is a black mailbox. There are referral slips available for students to fill out and put in the mailbox. I will then contact students individually through their homeroom teacher and schedule a time to meet with him or her. There is also an online contact form below for students.
Can you see my child for counseling all year?
It is important to be available for all students, but I am here to assist with short-term counseling (4-6 sessions). I will be glad to assist you with finding outside counseling services for you and your child.
What kinds of issues do you see children for?
I am here to assist with any issue that may be interfering with their education. I see students with friendship issues, academic concerns, dealing with the death of a family member, how to handle feelings and how to develop/use coping skills.
Will my child be embarrassed to leave the classroom with the school counselor?
No! I believe in being very visible throughout the school. Because of this, the counselor is seen as a normal part of the school atmosphere and students are usually excited/not nervous about seeing the counselor. I always tell the students that the counselor is their friend and not to be afraid when coming to see the counselor.
Will you contact me if my child comes to talk with you?
When a student comes to speak with an adult it is important for that he or she feels comfortable and trusts that what is discussed is remained confidential. This means I will not contact you unless I believe that you're child is in danger and/or a danger to him/herself or others.
What should I do if I suspect my child is being bullied?
1.) Focus on your child. Be supportive and gather information about the bullying. Never tell your child to ignore the bullying, this often leads to it becoming more serious. Don't blame the child being bullied, don't assume your child did something to provoke the bullying. Listen carefully to what your child tells you about the bullying. Ask him or her to describe who was involved, and how and where each bullying episode happened. Empathize with your child, tell them that bullying is wrong, not their fault and that you are glad they had the courage to tell you all about it. Ask your child what they think can be done to help.
2.) Contact your child's Teacher, Counselor or Administrator. Parents are often reluctant to report bullying o school officials, but bullying may not stop without the help of adults. Mrs. Carter, Assistant Principal, leads all suspected bullying investigations. Please feel free to contact her if you suspect your child or a child you know is a victim of bullying. Do not contact the parents of the student who bullied your child. This is usually a parent's first response but sometimes it makes matters worse.
3.) Help your child become more resilient to bullying. Help to develop talents or positive attributes of your child. Suggest and facilitate music, athletics and art activities. Doing so may help your child be more confident among their peers. Encourage your child to make contact with friendly students in his or her class. Your child's teacher may be able to suggest students with whom your child can make friends, spend time, or collaborate on work.