Episodes
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⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind to finally feel supported in your career
In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the unrealistic expectations set by comprehensive school counseling programs and offers practical advice on how to find peace and redefine success in the field.
By focusing on what is within their control, embracing small victories, and finding joy in their daily tasks, school counselors can better manage the pressures of their role.00:00 Introduction: The Struggles of School Counselors
00:34 Welcome Back: Revisiting a Popular Episode
00:52 The Holiday Pressure and Unrealistic Expectations
04:49 Making Peace with a Non-Comprehensive Program
09:15 The Circle of Control: Focusing on What You Can Change
13:05 The Reality of Comprehensive Programs
19:06 RAMP Status: Putting Things in Perspective
27:16 Final Thoughts
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
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Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind to build a "stress-less" career
In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses an issue many school counselors face: the overwhelming number of "urgent" student requests.
She argues that constantly "saving the day" might actually hurt student development and introduces a framework for triaging student concerns.
Drawing on research by Ryan and Deci on self-determination theory, she emphasizes the importance of fostering student autonomy for psychological well-being.
Steph outlines key questions counselors can use to decide when to intervene or step back, aiming to balance immediate support needs with opportunities for student growth.
The episode also touches on strategies for explaining this approach to school staff, keeping professional fluency, and joining the School for School Counselors Mastermind group to discuss and refine these practices.00:00 Introduction: The Overwhelmed School Counselor
00:49 Welcome to the Podcast
01:48 The Problem with Being a Superhero Counselor
07:13 The Importance of Student Autonomy
13:03 A Framework for Triage in School Counseling
20:15 Implementing Autonomy Supportive Strategies
28:45 Building Professional Fluency
30:37 Conclusion and Resources
Link to Decision-Making Question List
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Resources:
Eagle, J. W., Dowd-Eagle, S. E., Snyder, A., & Holtzman, E. G. (2015). Implementing a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS): Collaboration between school psychologists and administrators to promote systems-level change. Journal of Educational and Psychological Consultation, 25(2-3), 160-177.Epstein, J. L. (2018). School, family, and community partnerships: Preparing educators and improving schools (2nd ed.). Routledge.
Friend, M., & Cook, L. (2017). Interactions: Collaboration skills for school professionals (8th ed.). Pearson.
Reeve, J. (2009). Why teachers adopt a controlling motivating style toward students and how they can become more autonomy supportive. Educational Psychologist, 44(3), 159-175.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Press.
Su, Y. L., & Reeve, J. (2011). A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of intervention programs designed to support autonomy. Educational Psychology Review, 23(1), 159-188.
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of the 'School for School Counselors' podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses a major misstep she nearly made by trying to follow someone else's advice rather than staying true to her authentic style.
She explores the unrealistic expectations placed on school counselors, scrutinizing the ideal ASCA model and encouraging listeners to focus on meaningful change rather than unattainable perfection.
Steph highlights the significance of becoming an expert in areas that create real impact instead of adhering to scripted tasks, and urges school counselors to pursue authenticity and connection in their professional roles.
00:00 Introduction: A Near Miss and a Lesson Learned
00:47 Welcome to the School for School Counselors Podcast
01:59 The Misstep: Following Someone Else's Plan
03:06 The Importance of Authenticity
06:45 Rethinking School Counseling Goals
07:20 The Reality of School Counseling Standards
14:59 Becoming an Expert and Making a Difference
19:15 Conclusion: Embracing Change and Staying Motivated
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GET YOUR FREE ROLE-PLAY TECHNIQUE GUIDE HERE*******
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Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you! -
In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson talks through the unique challenges faced by gifted and twice exceptional students. Despite their abilities, these students often struggle with perfectionism, social isolation, and managing dual needs. Steph discusses practical strategies for school counselors to support these students.
She also introduces the new "Technique of the Week" segment as well as insights into the goings-on in her own school counseling program.00:00 Introduction: The Struggles of Gifted Students
01:34 Understanding Gifted and Twice Exceptional Students
05:14 Diving Deeper into Gifted Students' Challenges
07:44 Strategies for Supporting Gifted Students
13:59 Technique of the Week
GET THE FREE OUTREACH PLANNING GUIDE HERE
GET THE FREE ROLE-PLAY TECHNIQUE GUIDE HERE
References/Resources:
Assouline, S. G., & Whiteman, C. S. (2011). Twice-exceptional learners: Psychological and educational perspectives. Psychology in the Schools, 48(3), 205-214.
Baum, S. M., & Owen, S. V. (2004). To be gifted and learning disabled: Strength-based strategies for helping twice-exceptional students achieve success in school and life. Prufrock Press.
Foley Nicpon, M., Allmon, A., Sieck, B., & Stinson, R. D. (2011). Empirical investigation of twice-exceptionality: Where have we been and where are we going? Gifted Child Quarterly, 55(1), 3-17.
Reis, S. M., Baum, S. M., & Burke, E. (2014). An operational definition of twice-exceptional learners. Gifted Child Quarterly, 58(3), 217-230.*******
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Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you! -
How can we create holiday outreach programs that truly lift up our students, without compromising their dignity? Join me, Steph Johnson, and let's discuss the heart of compassionate holiday outreach. We'll explore practical, ethical strategies that make a real impact, especially for students facing economic challenges or homelessness. Together, we’ll look at what works (and what doesn’t) with programs like coat drives and gift trees, and how we can avoid the common pitfalls that sometimes reinforce the very barriers we're trying to break.
It takes more than just good intentions to plan a successful holiday outreach program: it takes foresight, collaboration, and a solid game plan. We’ll walk through the essential steps for organizing an initiative that hits home, from early planning and community buy-in to volunteer coordination and mindful promotion. With a little strategic thinking and support from resources like the School for School Counselors Mastermind Initiatives, even the smallest contributions can make a huge difference. Let's make this holiday season not just a warm memory for our students, but a meaningful experience for the whole school community.
GET THE FREE OUTREACH PLANNING GUIDE HERE
Start planning now to ensure a rewarding holiday outreach effort.00:00 Introduction: Are Your Holiday Outreach Efforts Effective?
03:18 Empowering vs. Reinforcing Challenges
04:24 Special Populations and Holiday Stress
07:51 Coordinating Outreach Efforts
09:41 Aligning Outreach with Ethical Guidelines
10:49 Inclusive Giving: Everyone Can Contribute
13:12 Creating a Successful Holiday Outreach Program
21:14 Sharing Success and Impact
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References/Resources:
American School Counselor Association (2016). Ethical standards for school counselors. ASCA. Retrieved from ASCA Ethical StandardsEvans, G.W. and Kim, P. (2013), Childhood Poverty, Chronic Stress, Self-Regulation, and Coping. Child Dev Perspect, 7: 43-48. https://doi.org/10.1111/cdep.12013
Gershoff, E. T., Aber, J. L., Raver, C. C., & Lennon, M. C. (2007). Income is not enough: Incorporating material hardship into models of income associations with parenting and child development. Child Development, 78(1), 70-95. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2007.00986.x
McNeely, C., & Falci, C. (2004). School connectedness and the transition into and out of health-risk behavior among adolescents: A comparison of social belonging and teacher support. Journal of School Health, 74(7), 284-292. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ743601
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Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you! -
This episode is a comprehensive guide for school counselors aiming to improve their engagement with students. Moving beyond traditional worksheets, it provides information about evidence-based, individualized strategies and innovative interventions, particularly those with special needs.
The discussion emphasizes the critical evaluation of widely-used resources like those from Teachers Pay Teachers, the necessity of culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices, and aligning interventions with students' IEPs and behavior plans.00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Worksheets
00:43 Rethinking Tools for Special Needs Students
02:17 The Appeal and Pitfalls of Worksheets
04:36 Personal Story: The Backpack Exercise
07:51 The Convenience vs. Effectiveness Debate
10:53 Concerns About Unvetted Resources
16:13 Focus on Special Student Populations
18:29 Individualized Approaches for Special Populations
20:21 Culturally Responsive and Trauma-Informed Practices
21:40 Practical Sensory-Based Interventions
23:27 Art and Movement-Based Techniques
27:10 Role-Playing and Therapeutic Games
30:22 Recap and Final Thoughts
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References/Resources:
Cook, B. G., & Odom, S. L. (2013). Evidence-based practices and implementation science in special education. Exceptional Children, 79(2), 135-144. doi:10.1177/001440291307900201Dunn, W. (2001). The sensations of everyday life: Empirical, theoretical, and pragmatic considerations. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 55(6), 608-620. doi:10.5014/ajot.55.6.608
Hammond, Z. (2015). Culturally responsive teaching and the brain: Promoting authentic engagement and rigor among culturally and linguistically diverse students. Corwin Press.
Morgan, P. L., Farkas, G., Tufis, P. A., & Sperling, R. A. (2008). Are reading and behavior problems risk factors for each other? Journal of Learning Disabilities, 41(5), 417-436. doi:10.1177/0022219408321123
Reinke, W. M., Herman, K. C., & Sprick, R. (2011). Motivational interviewing for effective classroom management: The classroom check-up. Guilford Press.
Rimm-Kaufman, S. E., & Hulleman, C. S. (2015). SEL in the classroom: Identifying and disseminating strategies. The Future of Children, 27(1), 149-172. doi:10.1353/foc.2017.0003
Scarpa, A., Williams White, S., & Attwood, T. (2013). CBT for children and adolescents with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders. Guilford Press.
Shaywitz, S. E., & Shaywitz, B. A. (2005). Dyslexia (specific reading disability). Biological Psychiatry, 57(11), 1301-1309. doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2005.01.043
Shelton, C., & Archambault, L. (2019). Lessons learned from Teachers Pay Teachers: Exploring the educational value of online marketplaces. Journal of Online Learning Research, 5(1), 35-56. Available from: ResearchGate.
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Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you! -
Ever feel like juggling the needs of special populations is pushing you to the brink? It doesn’t have to be that way! Join me, Steph Johnson, as we break down the often overwhelming world of school counseling and dive into real, evidence-based strategies for advocating for your students without burning out. We’ll talk about your ethical and legal responsibilities under ASCA standards, IDEA, and Section 504, and I’ll share ideas on how to lighten the load. Whether you're supporting students in special education, 504 plans, gifted programs, or English language learners, this episode will help you take care of your students and yourself.
00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Serving Every Student01:50 Understanding Special Populations
04:53 Ethical and Legal Responsibilities
08:12 Challenges Faced by School Counselors
14:51 Strategies for Effective Support
24:18 Conclusion and Encouragement
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Resources:
As mentioned in the episode, the resources list for this episode is too lengthy to post here. Email the show for a detailed list.
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
Ready to Tame the School Year Chaos? In this episode of School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson dives into the power of building habits that stick—even in the whirlwind of school counseling life.
Discover how to manage your ever-growing to-do list using James Clear’s proven habit loop framework: cue, craving, response, and reward.
Steph’s got you covered with practical tips for mastering new habits (without chasing perfection) and shows how small wins can lead to big changes.
Grab your free Habit Planner here00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:59 The Importance of Developing Habits
01:40 Listener Review and Personal Introduction
02:57 Balancing Responsibilities and Habits
07:24 Understanding the Habit Loop
16:41 Implementing Habit Stacking
23:08 Consistency Over Perfection
26:37 Upcoming Topics and Action Plan
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Resources:
Clear, J. (2018). Atomic habits: An easy & proven way to build good habits & break bad ones. Avery.
Harkin, B., Webb, T. L., Chang, B. P. I., Prestwich, A., Conner, M., Kellar, I., & Sheeran, P. (2016). *Does monitoring goal progress promote goal attainment? A meta-analysis of the experimental evidence.* Psychological Bulletin, 142(2), 198-229.Lally, P., Van Jaarsveld, C. H., Potts, H. W., & Wardle, J. (2010). *How are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world.* European Journal of Social Psychology, 40(6), 998-1009.
Neal, D. T., Wood, W., & Quinn, J. M. (2006). *Habits—A repeat performance.* Current Directions in Psychological Science, 15(4), 198-202.
Wood, W., & Neal, D. T. (2007). *A new look at habits and the habit-goal interface.* Psychological Review, 114(4), 843-863.
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
Can trying to solve every student problem actually hold them back? Join us as we explore this provocative question, inspired by Donald Winnicott's concept of the "good enough parent.” We'll dissect the instinct to "fix" and consider how stepping back can empower students, helping them build resilience, self-advocacy, and problem-solving skills, ultimately fostering their independence and emotional strength while lightening your workload.
We'll also challenge the unrealistic standards set by the ASCA National Model, questioning whether the relentless pursuit of perfection is truly beneficial. With only 1.1% of schools achieving RAMP status, it's clear that these high bars can create an unsustainable work environment. Instead, we advocate for "good enough school counseling," embracing imperfection and focusing on meaningful, manageable impacts.
00:00 Introduction: The Well-Meaning Instinct of School Counselors00:41 Empowering Students by Doing Less
01:06 Listener Reviews and Feedback
02:55 The Urge to Fix: A Common Challenge
04:25 The Concept of 'Good Enough' Counseling
07:54 Statistics and Realities of School Counseling
10:45 Sustainable Practices for School Counselors
21:54 The Importance of Empowering Students
22:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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References/Resources:
Clemens, E. V., & Milsom, A. (2008). The school counselor’s role in addressing the mental health needs of students: A model for prevention, intervention, and crisis intervention. Journal of School Counseling, 6(23).
Winnicott, D. W. (1953). Transitional objects and transitional phenomena: A study of the first not-me possession. International Journal of Psychoanalysis, 34, 89–97.
Winnicott, D. W. (1965). The maturational processes and the facilitating environment. London: Hogarth Press.**********************************
Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
Can adopting a positive mindset inadvertently lead to dismissing genuine struggles?
How can we balance a healthy stress mindset without falling into the trap of toxic positivity?
In this episode of the 'School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the complexities of stress management for school counselors. The episode delves into recognizing the difference between a constructive stress mindset and falling into the trap of toxic positivity.
Steph shares strategies for identifying warning signs of burnout, maintaining realistic expectations, and balancing professional efforts with emotional well-being. Listeners are encouraged to adopt mindful self-reflection, understand contextual limits, and seek peer support to sustain a healthy professional mindset.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:33 Understanding Stress Mindset vs. Toxic Positivity
01:45 Listener Reviews and Reflections
03:19 Reinterpreting Stress: A Deeper Dive
05:03 Growth Mindset and Its Pitfalls
08:12 Warning Signs of Toxic Positivity
08:59 Personal Experience with Hustle Culture
19:35 Strategies to Maintain a Healthy Mindset
26:10 Conclusion
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References/Resources:
American School Counselor Association. (2019). The ASCA national model: A framework for school counseling programs (4th ed.). American School Counselor Association.
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.Tao W, Zhao D, Yue H, Horton I, Tian X, Xu Z and Sun H-J (2022) The Influence of Growth Mindset on the Mental Health and Life Events of College Students. Front. Psychol. 13:821206. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.821206
Tsai, Min-Ying. 2023. Comparing Perfectionism, Cognitive Mindset, Constructive Thinking, and Emotional Intelligence in Gifted Students by Grade and Gender. Social Sciences 12: 233. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/socsci12040233
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
What if stress wasn't your enemy, but your secret weapon? In this enlightening episode, Steph Johnson reveals how school counselors can transform stress from a debilitating burden into a powerful strength. We tackle the overwhelming caseloads, emotional toll, and resource scarcity head-on, offering a fresh perspective supported by robust, peer-reviewed research. Discover how your mindset about stress can radically alter your health outcomes, boost resilience, and promote professional growth. Sound too good to be true? The research says otherwise.
00:00 Understanding School Counseling Stressors00:39 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
01:01 Exploring Stress Solutions
02:35 Challenging Traditional Views on Stress
03:05 Listener Reviews and Feedback
04:44 Rethinking Stress in School Counseling
07:31 Harnessing Stress for Positive Outcomes
11:59 Practical Strategies for Stress Management
14:40 Research Insights on Stress Mindsets
25:54 Final Thoughts
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References/Resources:
Crum, A. J., Akinola, M., Martin, A., & Fath, S. (2017). The role of stress mindset in shaping cognitive, emotional, and physiological responses to challenging and threatening stress. Anxiety, stress, & coping, 30(4), 379-395.Crum, A.J., Jamieson, J.P., & Akinola, M. (2020). Optimizing stress: An integrated intervention for regulating stress responses. Emotion, 20(1), 120-125. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/emo0000670
Crum, A. J., Salovey, P., & Achor, S. (2013). Rethinking stress: The role of mindsets in determining the stress response. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 104(4), 716–733. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0031201
Jamieson, J.P., Crum, A.J., Goyer, J.P., Marotta, M.E. & Akinola, M. (2018). Optimizing stress responses with reappraisal and mindset interventions: an integrated model, Anxiety, Stress, & Coping, 31(3), 245-261. DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2018.1442615
Jamieson, J. P., Mendes, W. B., & Nock, M. K. (2013). Improving acute stress responses: The power of reappraisal. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 22(1), 51-56. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721412461500
Keller, A., Litzelman, K., Wisk, L. E., Maddox, T., Cheng, E. R., Creswell, P. D., & Witt, W. P. (2012). Does the perception that stress affects health matter? The association with health and mortality. Health Psychology, 31(5), 677–684. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0026743
Liu JJW, Ein N, Gervasio J, Vickers K (2019) The efficacy of stress reappraisal interventions on stress responsivity: A meta-analysis and systematic review of existing evidence. PLoS ONE 14(2): e0212854. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0212854
Mind & Body Lab. (n.d.). Stress and performance. Stanford University. https://mbl.stanford.edu/stress
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Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you! -
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and burnt out as a school counselor? Discover game-changing strategies to not only manage- but also thrive- amidst the unique stressors you face daily. Join me, Steph Johnson, on the School for School Counselors Podcast as we navigate the complexities of stress management, especially with the new school year kicking off. We'll discuss the escalating mental health demands post-COVID-19 and how traditional self-care practices may not be cutting it anymore. Learn how to balance your high caseloads with sustainable, actionable measures that protect your well-being and professional effectiveness.
In this episode, we tackle the mismatch between your rising responsibilities and outdated frameworks, highlighting the importance of setting professional boundaries and seeking support. A groundbreaking journal article reshapes our understanding of chronic stress and offers fresh insights into maintaining mental health. This is not just about surviving but thriving in your role as a school counselor—equipped, confident, and ready to meet each day with renewed energy and purpose.
00:00 Welcome Back to the School for School Counselors Podcast00:25 Exciting Updates and New Beginnings
01:06 Addressing Stress in School Counseling
02:40 Behavior Interventions and Mastermind Group
04:53 Understanding Chronic Stress
07:47 The Impact of Chronic Stress on School Counselors
16:17 Strategies to Mitigate Chronic Stress
23:25 The Importance of Professional Consultation
29:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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References/Resources:
Agyapong, B., Obuobi-Donkor, G., Burback, L., & Wei, Y. (2022). Stress, burnout, anxiety and depression among teachers: a scoping review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(17), 10706.Liu, Y. Z., Wang, Y. X., & Jiang, C. L. (2017). Inflammation: the common pathway of stress-related diseases. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 11, 273283.
Niles, J. K., Mullen, P. R., Kitching, E., & Schofield, K. (2024). School Counselors’ Hope, Stress, and Job Satisfaction. Professional School Counseling, 28(1). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X241259487
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
In the 114th episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the critical issue of subpar materials flooding the market, especially with the rise of AI-generated resources. She differentiates between "evidence-based" and "evidence-aligned" materials, emphasizing the importance of using thoroughly vetted, peer-reviewed resources, particularly in high-stakes situations. Steph also offers guidance on where to find reliable, evidence-backed resources and advises on how to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of counseling tools.
00:00 Welcome and Podcast Celebration
00:50 The Epidemic of Subpar Counseling Materials
03:47 Understanding Evidence-Based vs. Evidence-Aligned
08:56 High Stakes and Tier Two Interventions
11:48 Becoming a Discerning Consumer
18:26 Finding Reliable Resources
24:09 Conclusion and Invitation
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References/Resources:
American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). Professional School Counseling Journal. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/Publications-Research/Professional-School-Counseling-Journal
Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning. (n.d.). SEL programs. CASEL. Retrieved from https://casel.org/
Education Resources Information Center (ERIC). (n.d.). ERIC - Institute of Education Sciences. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/
U.S. Department of Education. (n.d.). What Works Clearinghouse. Retrieved from https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/**********************************
Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses ways to make school counseling more sustainable and enjoyable. Steph explores the importance of understanding your 'why', the benefits of tracking your time, the necessity of delegation, the value of effective systems, and the role of building strong relationships with staff. She emphasizes the need to maintain realistic expectations and provides insights on how school counselors can manage their demanding roles without burning out. Join the conversation and learn practical tips to thrive in your school counseling career.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:28 The Importance of Sustainable School Counseling
04:34 Understanding Your 'Why'
08:13 The Role of Data in School Counseling
14:20 The Power of Delegation
16:44 Building Effective Systems
18:45 Fostering Relationships with Staff
20:55 Setting Realistic Expectations
22:38 Conclusion and Support Resources
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Mentioned in This Episode:
SMART School Counseling Assessment: smartschoolcounseling.com
School for School Counselors Mastermind**********************************
Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the challenges of adhering to the ASCA National Model in imperfect circumstances and introduces the SMART School Counseling Framework. This five-part framework aims to provide actionable steps for school counselors navigating the complexities of real-world school environments.
Additionally, she introduces the free SMART School Counseling Assessment (smartschoolcounseling.com) designed to help counselors identify their next best steps for growth and development. Steph emphasizes the importance of not internalizing program shortfalls and instead endeavoring to do what's best for students within the context of the campus.00:00 Welcome to the New and Improved Podcast
00:40 Celebrating Our Success
01:38 Introducing a New Idea
03:55 Challenges in Implementing the ASCA National Model
08:59 The Smart School Counseling Framework
18:42 The Smart School Counseling Assessment
21:17 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved
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Mentioned in This Episode:
SMART School Counseling Assessment: smartschoolcounseling.com
School for School Counselors Mastermind**********************************
Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, Steph Johnson addresses the evolving role of school counselors in behavior intervention on campuses. Steph highlights the growing need for counselors to assist not only students but also staff members, who may unintentionally exacerbate student behaviors. She discusses common challenges, such as teacher dysregulation and its impact on students, and provides actionable strategies for counselors to model emotional regulation, train staff, and offer support without seeming condescending. Steph also touches on the importance of mindfulness and solution-focused conversations for promoting a healthier school environment.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:25 Behavior Intervention in Schools
01:41 Supporting Your Staff
03:57 Understanding Staff Challenges
05:03 Teacher Interaction Styles
13:35 Promoting Emotional Regulation
23:57 The Importance of Support Systems
26:07 Conclusion and Upcoming Events
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References/Resources:
Gregoire, Simon & Lachance, Lise & Taylor, Geneviève. (2015). Mindfulness, mental health and emotion regulation among workers. International Journal of Wellbeing. 5. 96-119. 10.5502/ijw.v5i4.444.Vollmann M, Schwieren C, Mattern M, Schnell K (2021) Let the team fix it?—Performance and mood of depressed workers and coworkers in different work contexts. PLoS ONE 16(10): e0256553. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0256553
Zerillo, C., & Osterman, K. F. (2011). Teacher perceptions of teacher bullying. Improving schools, 14(3), 239-257.
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the expanding role of school counselors in behavior intervention, emphasizing the need for a trauma-informed approach. She discusses common concerns counselors have about behavior intervention, including the misconception of equating it to discipline, time constraints, and the fear of being misutilized. Steph urges counselors to rethink their approach by identifying the origins of problematic behavior and addressing systemic issues rather than relying on one-stop solutions. She also highlights the importance of mindful language use and empowering students as peer mentors to foster a supportive school environment. Finally, she introduces the upcoming topics in the podcast and the resources available in the School for School Counselors mastermind group.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
00:14 The Role of School Counselors in Behavior Intervention
01:29 Challenges and Concerns in Behavior Intervention
02:25 Rethinking Behavior Intervention Strategies
[03:00 Celebrating a Podcast Milestone]
04:02 Addressing the Root Causes of Behavior
08:55 The Power of Language in Behavior Intervention
13:03 Empowering Students as Change Agents
17:27 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Topics
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References/Resources:
McCormick, M. P., Cappella, E., O'Connor, E. E., & McClowry, S. G. (2015). Do Intervention Impacts on Academic Achievement Vary by School Climate? Evidence from a Randomized Trial in Urban Elementary Schools. Society for Research on Educational Effectiveness.
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED562123.pdfPaquette, D. and Ryan, J. (2015). Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. National Dropout Prevention Center. https://dropoutprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/paquetteryanwebquest_20091110.pdf
Wade, L., Leahy, A. A., Babic, M. J., Beauchamp, M. R., Smith, J. J., Kennedy, S. G., ... & Lubans, D. R. (2022). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the benefits of school-based, peer-led interventions for leaders. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 21222.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-25662-9.pdf
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the complex role school counselors play in behavior intervention. She highlights the mixed emotions and challenges that come with the start of a new school year and provides insights into common mistakes counselors make when intervening in student behavior.
Key points include the importance of self-regulation, the benefits of limited involvement, and the necessity of focusing on student strengths. Johnson also emphasizes the value of intentional follow-up and offers practical advice to avoid overwhelm and burnout.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:12 Preparing for the New School Year
00:44 The Role of School Counselors in Behavior Intervention
04:59 Common Mistakes in Behavior Intervention
05:24 Belief Fallacies in Behavior Intervention
12:15 Effective Behavior Intervention Strategies
20:07 Upcoming Mastermind Sessions
20:59 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
Navigating the delicate balance of student confidentiality is crucial but complex. In this episode, we tackle real-life scenarios where transparency becomes a necessity, especially in critical situations involving suicidal ideation, self-harm, or legal mandates. We'll discuss the ethical boundaries school counselors must navigate, stressing the importance of clear communication with students about the limits of confidentiality. Plus, the episode delves into the ethical pitfalls and voyeuristic tendencies that can arise, urging professionals to refine their skills and ensure the best interests of their students are always prioritized.
Managing confidentiality effectively is at the heart of professional school counseling. We'll explore the risks of certain practices and the importance of critically analyzing and communicating confidentiality guidelines to avoid misunderstandings.
Mentioned in this episode:
American School Counselor Association. (2016). ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/44b6a9a9-84ff-47e3-baa7-ccb78c9a6567/Ethical-Standards.pdf
U.S. Department of Education. (2021). Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.
Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)
Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!
Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!! -
Welcome back to the School for School Counselors Podcast! In this episode, Steph Johnson dives deep into the often unrealistic expectations placed on school counselors. After wrapping up the wildly successful "Best Year Ever!" event, Steph shares her heart and wisdom from the final night of the extravaganza, emphasizing the need for a strong foundation rather than more tactics.
Too often, school counselors are bombarded with the ideal of achieving a "perfect" or "comprehensive" program, feeling like failures when they can't meet all the earmarks. Steph passionately argues that this perception is unfair and unrealistic, given the diverse and challenging environments counselors work in. She highlights the importance of recognizing the true value of our work and the significant impacts we make, even without all the accolades.
Tune in to hear about the SMART School Counseling Assessment, a unique tool designed to help you assess and appreciate your progress without the pressure of meeting every benchmark. Discover how you can redefine success in your role and find satisfaction and pride in your daily efforts.
Whether you're struggling with limited resources, lack of administrative support, or just the sheer volume of work, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to navigate these challenges and feel empowered in your career. Join us as we celebrate the meaningful contributions you make every day and remind ourselves that success isn't about perfection—it's about making a difference where we are.
- Montre plus
