What is an Elementary School Counselor?

· A trained counselor who helps all children “unlock” their potential.

· A resource person for teachers and parents.

· A liaison with outside agencies.

· A consultant and coordinator.

An Elementary Counselor . . . 

· Talks with children individually

· Leads small support groups for children with common concerns such as family changes, loss, self-concept, and social skills.

· Conducts developmental lessons in each classroom, such as peer pressure, self-concept, feelings, communication, friendship, personal safety, study skills, career awareness, responsibility, and other FIS Lifeskills.

Confidentiality

Trust is the most important aspect of the counseling relationship.  Parental permission is required for small group counseling.

How does a student see the Counselor?

· Self-referral– puts notes in the counselor’s mailbox

· Teacher or administrator referral

· Parent referral

· Friend referral

 Other Counseling Services at Fayetteville Intermediate:

· New Kids On the Block– helps new students with school adjustment

· School Friends Program

· Mentor Program

· Reading Literacy Action Program

· RAINBOWS Program

· Peer Mediation Program

· Parent Resource Center– offers materials for parents to check out

· Classes for parents- Includes S.T.E.P. and Love and Logic

What are the qualifications of a Professional School Counselor?

· Georgia Department of Education Certification in School Counseling

· Master’s Degree or higher in School Counseling

· Internship Experience in the field

Developmental Guidance Focuses on . . .

· Preventive plus crisis counseling

· Being proactive

· Planned daily activities

· ALL students, including those experiencing problems

· Developmental needs of students

What are developmental needs?

Children commonly have some of the following developmental tasks to face:

· Building wholesome attitudes towards oneself

· Learning to get along with peers

· Developing an understanding of the needs of others

· Developing habits contributing to  the learning of basic skills

A student may see the Counselor for . . .

· Academic Matters– information, motivation, study skills, test taking skills, and goal setting

· Personal Issues– developmental concerns, self-awareness, decision-making, problem solving, and interpersonal relationships

· Conflict Resolution– personal conflicts, family and school relationships, and school related trauma.

Career Orientation– information, identifying interests, choice awareness, problem solving, and decision-making processes