-How can I refer my child for counseling services?
You are more than welcome to contact your grade level school counselor at  757-421-0468, email your grade level counselor, or send a note through your child. We would be glad to answer any questions about the counseling services at our school.

-Can you see my child for counseling all year?
Since the counselors must be available for all students, we can provide short-term counseling (3-5 sessions).  We will be glad to assist you with finding outside agencies  for your child.

-What kinds of issues do you see children for?
We are here to assist with any issue that may can interfere with their education.  We see students with friendship issues, academic concerns, dealing with death or divorce,  handling feelings, and how to use coping skills.

-Will my child be embarrassed to leave the classroom with the school counselor?
No!  We 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.  We always tell the students that the counselor is here to help whenever necessary.  

-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 situation.   Never tell your child to ignore the bullying, this often leads to the problem 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 to school officials, but bullying may not stop without the help of adults.  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.

 

-When should I contact my child’s school counselor?

To discuss academic concerns, social/emotional concerns, or behavioral    issues. To set up a parent/teacher meeting. To discuss a family issue or concern. To discuss individual student needs. To obtain resources or community referrals.