Episodi

  • In today’s episode, I’m diving into something that I know so many of us struggle with—how to fit everything into our school counseling program. With all the different awareness months, SEL lessons, and building needs, it can feel like we’re being pulled in a million different directions. And let's be honest, sometimes it just feels like too much.

    Key Takeaways:

    It’s okay to not cover everything: You don’t need to feel pressured to address every awareness month. Focus on what’s most relevant to your school community.Prioritize what matters most: Identify your building’s needs and let that guide your focus—whether it’s SEL lessons, attendance goals, or conflict resolution.Get creative with incorporating awareness topics: Bulletin boards, morning announcements, and collaborating with other staff can help weave these themes into your program without overwhelming you.Collaborate with others: You don’t have to do it all alone! Engage your principal, teachers, and other staff to help carry out school-wide initiatives.Set realistic goals: Use your calendar to map out non-negotiables and figure out where you have space to introduce additional topics or activities.

    I’d love to hear how you’re prioritizing your program! If you have questions or want to share your strategies, feel free to reach out. Don’t forget—you’re making a difference, one student at a time.

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most important topics we face as school counselors—suicide prevention. As someone who has experienced the heartbreaking reality of losing students to suicide, this topic is very personal for me. But it’s also a call to action for all of us.

    Here’s what you can expect from today’s episode:

    I share my own experiences as a school counselor and how suicide has impacted the schools I’ve worked in.We’ll talk about how September is Suicide Prevention Month and why it’s the perfect time to raise awareness with your students.I walk you through simple, effective strategies like classroom presentations, partnering with teachers, and creating safe spaces for students to talk about mental health.You’ll hear about real ways to make a difference with events like mental health fairs, anonymous drop boxes, and even role-playing scenarios to teach kids how to support their peers.Plus, I’m sharing a freebie! Download your 988 posters to hang up in your schools to help promote the suicide prevention hotline in a student-friendly way.

    Grades 6-7 Suicide Prevention Lesson

    Grades 8+ Suicide Prevention Lesson

    Free 988 School Posters

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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  • In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into a fun and insightful activity that can be a game-changer for your next faculty meeting or even for use with students—The Leadership Compass.

    This activity helps individuals identify their leadership style based on four compass directions: North, South, East, and West. Whether you’re a “take charge” North, a “big picture” East, a “detail-oriented” West, or a “relationship-building” South, this exercise fosters a deeper understanding of how each style contributes to effective teamwork.

    You’ll learn how to use this tool to boost collaboration, appreciate the diversity of leadership approaches, and build stronger connections with your colleagues.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Fable of the Blind Men and the Elephant: A powerful story to illustrate the importance of understanding different perspectives.Leadership Compass Breakdown:North: Action-oriented, loves to get things done.East: Big picture thinkers who work with the end in mind.West: Detail-focused and question everything to ensure clarity.South: Relationship-focused and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.How to Use the Leadership Compass: Tips for facilitating the activity with faculty and students, including creating a visual compass in your room.The Power of Diverse Leadership Styles: Why you need all four directions on your team for true collaboration and success.

    Links Mentioned:

    The Leadership Compass Activity

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode, I’m sharing my top ten strategies for school counselors to start the school year successfully. Whether you’re returning to a familiar school or stepping into a new one, these tips will help you build strong relationships, organize your counseling program, and set up a solid foundation for the year.

    Episode Highlights:

    Build Relationships: Start the year by connecting with both returning and new staff and students. Building strong relationships is the key to effective counseling and creating a supportive school environment.Review and Update Your Counseling Program: Take time to review your counseling program to ensure it meets current student needs and aligns with school goals. This includes setting measurable goals, such as improving attendance.Set Up Your Office: Make your office a welcoming and organized space where students feel comfortable. Clear out old materials, refresh your resources, and create an environment that’s inviting but not overwhelming.Create an Organized Counseling Schedule: Develop a flexible yet structured schedule for your counseling sessions, including classroom lessons, small groups, and individual sessions. Remember to leave some white space for unexpected issues that may arise.Communicate Your Role: It’s crucial to educate staff, students, and parents about your role as a school counselor. Use brochures and open house events to explain what services you offer and how to access them.Plan Your SEL Curriculum: Outline your SEL topics for each month, aligning them with school-wide events and goals, like bullying prevention week, to provide consistent and relevant support to students.Participate in Professional Development: Stay on top of the latest counseling techniques and practices by engaging in ongoing professional development. This helps you keep up with the evolving needs of your students.

    Links Mentioned:

    Counseling Brochures Bundle

    Get a Year of Perks for 25% off!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • As school counselors, we often rely on data to prove our effectiveness.

    But here's the reality: not everything we do can be measured. Some of the most impactful moments we create with students are those that can't be quantified, yet they leave a lasting impression.

    In this episode, we dive into:

    The Importance of Counselor Habits: Discover why the small, daily actions we take can have a big impact on our students and our school community.Creating Lollipop Moments: Learn about the profound, unmeasurable effects we have through simple acts of kindness and being present for our students.And more...

    If you haven’t tuned in to the earlier episodes in our back-to-school series, I highly encourage you to start from the beginning. Each episode builds on the last, offering insights and tips that are especially valuable as we prepare for a new school year.

    Let’s band together to make this school year one filled with meaningful connections and unforgettable moments.

    Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this episode!

    Links Mentioned:

    Lolipop Moments YouTube Video

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode of Counselor Chat, we explore leadership through the lens of the "Leadership from a Dancing Guy" video. This simple yet powerful video can be a tool for school counselors to ignite movements within their school communities. By embracing the role of a leader, even when it feels like dancing alone, school counselors can inspire students, teachers, and parents to create a positive, inclusive environment.

    Key Takeaways:

    Leadership from a Lone Nut: The "Leadership from a Dancing Guy" video illustrates how one person's actions can inspire a movement.Creating Momentum: As school counselors, it's essential to be that first dancer, leading by example and encouraging others to join in.Inspiring Positive Change: Your consistent and courageous actions as a counselor can have a lasting impact on your school community.

    Call to Action:

    Reflect on new ideas or initiatives you want to introduce this school year.Think about how you can be the first dancer in your school community, inspiring others to take part in creating positive change.

    Links Mentioned:

    Leadership From A Dancing Guy YouTube VideoBlog Post: Are You A Lone Nut? A Lesson To Develop Leadership

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this second episode of our Back to School series, I’m diving into a topic that’s incredibly important for us as school counselors—how to make sure the vital work we do doesn’t go unnoticed.

    Too often, despite the significant impact we have, our efforts can go unseen by those around us.

    In this episode, I emphasize the importance of:

    Advocating for Our Role: Ensuring that the value of our work is communicated so it doesn’t get overlooked.Sharing Successes: Highlighting the progress of our students with colleagues and administrators to build awareness and appreciation for the counseling role.Collaboration is Key: Being seen as integral members of the school team by actively participating in and contributing to the broader educational environment.Impactful Interventions: Recognizing the power of empathy and understanding in counseling.Building a Supportive Environment: Advocating for ourselves to help create a school culture where our contributions are respected and supported.

    Join me as we explore how to ensure our work is visible, valued, and celebrated as we head into what I hope will be our best school year yet!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • Episode Summary:

    This episode kicks off a special series dedicated to sharing valuable lessons and advice to help school counselors have their best year ever. Drawing inspiration from James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, Carol discusses the profound impact of habits on personal identity and professional effectiveness. She shares practical strategies for habit formation, such as habit stacking and the two-minute rule, and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in developing habits that support wellness and work-life balance.

    Key Points:

    Introduction to the Atomic Habits book by James Clear.The concept of habits reflecting identity.Practical examples of habit formation in personal and professional life.Strategies like habit stacking and the two-minute rule.Importance of self-awareness in habit development.

    Actionable Tips:

    Identify and reflect on your current habits.Use habit stacking to create new routines.Implement the two-minute rule to gradually build new habits.Foster habits that support your wellness and work-life balance.

    Resources Mentioned:

    Atomic Habits by James Clear

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • Key Points Covered:

    The Role of Data in School Counseling:

    Data as a tool for informed decision-making.The significance of proactive interventions in student support.

    Types of Data School Counselors Can Collect:

    Academic performance data (grades, test scores, attendance).Behavioral data (disciplinary incidents, attendance patterns, social-emotional skills).Surveys and assessments (career interests, mental health, school climate).

    Using Data to Create Responsive Programs: 

    Importance of analyzing data to identify trends and underlying issues.Communicating Data Findings to Stakeholders

    Strategies for sharing data effectively: 

    Data dashboards.Presentations.Written reports.

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

    Perks Membership

  • Today's episode we talk about 10 creative ways to use a plain piece of paper as a powerful school counseling tool

    Creative Paper Activities:

    1. Mind Mapping:

    - Visual representation of thoughts and feelings

    - Great for brainstorming and organizing ideas


    2. Goal Setting:

    - Fold paper into sections for short-term and long-term goals

    - Create a roadmap to visualize progress


    3. Art Therapy:

    - Encourage self-expression and emotional articulation

    - Activities like "I am" statements with watercolors


    4. Scribble Drawing:

    - Eyes-closed scribbling turned into a masterpiece

    - Promotes creativity and finding beauty in the unexpected


    5. What If Scenarios:

    - List and analyze "what if" thoughts

    - Differentiate realistic concerns from exaggerated fears


    6. Journaling Prompts:

    - Use prompts or quotes for reflection and emotional processing

    - Option to draw responses


    7. Collage Creation:

    - Reflect interests, values, and aspirations with cut-out images

    - Enhances self-awareness and pride


    8. Origami:

    - Therapeutic activity promoting mindfulness and relaxation

    - Simple projects like paper boats and cootie catchers


    9. Letter Writing:

    - Write letters to themselves to express thoughts and hopes

    - Revisit letters to track personal growth


    10. Timelines:

    - Chart significant life events or future goals

    - Explore identity and experiences


    Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor Chat


    Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy counseling!

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • Join me today as we talk all about how to use mind mapping as a school counselor to enhance your school counseling program.

    Mind Mapping is a visual technique to organize thoughts, information, and ideas. The benefits of using mind mapping is that it enhances creativity, helps with critical thinking, and eases problem-solving skills.

    Steps to Create a Mind Map:

    1. Start with a blank paper or whiteboard

    2. Place the central thought in the middle

    3. Branch out with related ideas and subtopics

    4. Avoid judging ideas initially, just brainstorm freely

    5. Link and structure thoughts to create a cohesive map


    Benefits for School Counseling:

    Program Development: Outline goals, strategies, and evaluation methodsExample: Planning a career fair using mind mapping to brainstorm contacts, logistics, and activitiesStudent Support: Identify needs and design targeted interventionsCategorize support services: academic assistance, mental health resources, career guidance

    Effective Mind Mapping Tips:

    Begin with a clear central theme or objectiveUse keywords or images for ideasKeep it simple and conciseEmbrace creativity and unconventional connectionsKeep and revisit the mind map for ongoing revisions

    Contact Information:

    Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor ChatEmail me at [email protected]

    Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy mind mapping!

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • Tips for Attending the ASCA Conference & Exciting Updates!

    Join Brandy Thompson as she takes over the Counselor Chat podcast for this episode! Brandy shares valuable tips for making the most of your ASCA conference experience. Get ready for essential packing advice, networking strategies, and must-see sessions.

    **Key Points:**

    ASCA Conference Tips:

    - Wear comfortable shoes and pack light.

    - Bring a sweater for cold conference rooms.

    - Download the conference app for updates and schedules.

    - Don’t miss the exhibit hall for networking and discovering new resources.

    - Participate in social events and mixers to meet fellow counselors.

    - Utilize social media and follow the hashtag #ASCA24 for real-time updates.

    Exploring Kansas City:

    - Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National WWI Museum, Kansas City Zoo, and more.

    - Enjoy local BBQ at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Arthur Bryant’s.

    Booth 506: Visit Carol and Brandi at the exhibit hall for the Perks Counseling Content Club. Get exclusive swag and learn about their comprehensive counseling resources.

    Links and Resources:

    - 2024 Summer Counselor Conference Registration

    Follow Brandy at:

    The Counseling Teacher

    The Counseling Teacher Brandy on TpT

    Perks Content Club

    Subscribe & Review:

    - Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others find the show!

    Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, enjoy your ASCA conference and happy conferencing!

    ---

    Feel free to make adjustments to fit your style and specific needs!

    Resources Mentioned:Summer Counselor Conference

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode:

    I am thrilled to have my friend Leslie from Informed Decisions join us. Leslie is a fantastic social worker based in Brooklyn, New York, with a wealth of experience working with diverse groups, including court-involved youth, LGBTQ+ individuals, teen mothers, special needs populations, and fellow educators.

    Leslie shares her invaluable insights on advisories and SEL (Social Emotional Learning) programs, providing practical advice and real-world examples to help school counselors effectively engage their students and create impactful programs.

    Key Highlights:

    Leslie’s Background: Get to know Leslie and her extensive experience working with various populations and settings.Starting from Scratch: Leslie offers actionable tips for counselors who are new to advisories and SEL programs or need to start from scratch.Importance of Space and Resources: Learn how understanding your space and available resources can significantly impact the success of your programs.Using Existing Resources: Discover the value of connecting with existing programs and curriculums to avoid reinventing the wheel and save time.Collecting and Using Data: Leslie emphasizes the importance of data collection in demonstrating the impact of your programs to administration and stakeholders.Favorite Groups and Programs: Leslie shares her favorite types of groups and programs to run, and why advisory programs hold a special place in her heart.Practical Tips: From over-planning to the magic of lamination, Leslie and I share our top tips for staying organized and prepared.

    Special Mention: Leslie will also be one of our esteemed presenters at the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference!

    Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from her extensive experience and practical advice.

    Connect with Leslie:

    Informed DecisionsTpTIG

    Links Leslie mentioned:

    Youth to Youth- This is the program that models alternatives to using drugs and/or alcohol Social Emotional Learning and Advisory Survey -This resources allows students to provide their input. Which helps you form connections and see what topics they are interested in discussing. The resource includes both a handout and digital survey10 simple Tips for Forming Connections in an Advisory or SEL Class - Getting student buy-in9 easy ways of getting principal buy-in for anadvisory and sel program
    Resources Mentioned:Summer Counselor ConferenceLaminator

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes:...

  • In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm diving into the importance of establishing a balanced summer routine for school counselors.

    I should forewarn you—this episode might stir some debate about summer routines for school counselors, but it’s important to talk about.

    Key Takeaways:

    Rest and Relaxation:

    Importance of taking time to rest and rejuvenateEnjoying quality moments with family and friends

    Reflect and Plan:

    Reflecting on the past school yearSetting goals for the upcoming school year

    Professional Development:

    Engaging in workshops and online coursesHighlights of the Summer Counselor Conference

    Organization:

    Tips for decluttering and organizing personal and professional spaces

    Connect and Collaborate:

    Building and maintaining a professional network

    Self-Care:

    Focusing on overall wellness, including physical and mental health
    Resources Mentioned:Summer Counselor Conference

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode of Counselor Chat, I sit down with Jenice Lee. a youth development consultant and the voice behind the podcast School After Hours. Jenice shares her extensive experience and insights on the importance of after-school programs, their benefits, and how school counselors can effectively collaborate with these programs to create a cohesive and supportive school culture.

    Topics Discussed:

    The 2024 Summer Counselor Conference details and how to registerBenefits of after-school programs for student growth and engagementStrategies for building successful after-school programsThe role of school counselors in supporting and partnering with after-school programsTips for starting your own after-school sessions, including research and community partnershipsExamples of successful after-school programs and their impact on studentsHow to secure funding and resources for long-term program sustainability
    Connect With Jenice:Website:  https://www.schoolafterhours.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/schoolafterhoursInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/schoolafterhours/

    Join the conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/ND9oBmLW

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode of Counselor Chat, we dive into:

    An inspiring conversation with Jordan Tatom, a high school counselor from Tennessee, who shares his unique journey from K-8 to high school counseling.Insights into the challenges and rewards of transitioning between different educational levels.Practical advice for school counselors considering a change in their career paths.The differences in responsibilities and interactions when working with elementary, middle, and high school students.Details about the 2024 Summer Counselor ConferenceHighlights of Jordan's session at the upcoming conference, where he will dive deeper into the differences between educational levels and what to expect when transitioning.

    Tune in to learn more about navigating these changes and enhancing your impact on student growth and success.

    Links Mentioned:

    Meet Jordan:

    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/counselortatom/ 

    Join the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/2aGE2efT

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode, we have a special guest, John Burnett, a middle school counselor from Houston, Texas.

    John's journey into education is nothing short of inspiring and serves as a great reminder that our paths can be as unique as the students we serve.

    Episode Highlights:John Burnett's Journey: Discover how John transitioned from being a bank teller to a middle school Spanish teacher and ultimately found his passion in school counseling.Real-Life Experience: John shares the humorous and unexpected start to his teaching career and how it shaped his approach to education.Counseling Transition: Learn about John's move from teaching to counseling and the experiences that influenced his decision.Middle School Focus: Insights into why John loves working with middle school students and the unique challenges and rewards of this age group.Professional Development: John discusses his session at the upcoming Summer Counselor Conference, focusing on nurturing resilience and supporting middle school mental health.
    Key Takeaways:Unconventional Paths: Embrace the unique and sometimes unexpected journeys that lead us to our passions.Student Engagement: Strategies for maintaining effective classroom management and lesson planning.Supporting Mental Health: The importance of understanding and addressing trauma, anxiety, and other mental health issues in students.Continuous Learning: The value of professional development and staying current with new strategies and ideas in school counseling.
    Connect with John:Website: https://counselingwithmrb.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselingwithmrb/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCihZmtjPKVmN88g6j45Ew0wTwitter:  https://twitter.com/mrbcounseling7

    Join the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/GKCowpvT

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode, I dive into the unpredictable nature of school counseling and share strategies to navigate the daily chaos effectively.

    I'm thrilled to be joined by my good friend Laura Filtness from Positive School Counselor, an experienced elementary school counselor from Tennessee.

    Episode Highlights:Introduction to Laura Filtness: Learn about Laura’s background, her journey in school counseling, and her unique approach to integrating therapy dogs into her program.Navigating Unpredictability: Practical tips and strategies for managing the ever-changing and chaotic nature of a school counselor’s day.Mindfulness in Counseling: Insights into how mindfulness can help school counselors stay responsive rather than reactive.School Year Chaos: Discussing the challenges of planning and executing programs amidst the unpredictability of the school year.Parent Workshops & Community Engagement: Effective ways to engage parents and the community in your school counseling program.Professional Development: The importance of attending conferences like ASCA and the Summer Counselor Conference for ongoing learning and inspiration.
    Key Takeaways:The importance of flexibility and adaptability in school counseling.How to implement mindfulness practices to enhance your effectiveness.Strategies to stay organized and prioritize tasks amidst a busy schedule.Engaging parents and the community to support your counseling initiatives.The value of professional development and continuous learning.

    Until next time, keep making a positive impact!

    Resources Mentioned:

    Meet Laura:

    Website:  https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.com/TpT Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Pawsitive-School-CounselorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/

    Join the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/QP9uoz93

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • In this episode of Counselor Chat:

    We dive into the transformative technique of mind mapping and how it can elevate your school counseling programs.

    Whether you're familiar with mind mapping or it's a new concept for you, this episode will provide practical insights and tips to help you harness its full potential.

    Here's what we cover:

    Introduction to Mind MappingExplanation of mind mapping as a powerful visual techniqueHow it helps organize thoughts, ideas, and informationPersonal experiences using mind mapping with students and in program developmentBenefits of Mind MappingEnhances creativity and critical thinking skillsPromotes holistic thinking and problem-solvingEncourages brainstorming without judgmentPractical Applications in School CounselingProgram Development:Outlining program goals, strategies, and evaluation methodsCareer Fair Planning:Steps from initial brainstorming to detailed organizationExamples from our career fair planning processStudent Support Services:Identifying student needs and designing targeted interventionsCategorizing support services and available resourcesUpcoming EventDetails about the 2024 Summer Counselor ConferenceDates: July 26-28Over 40 sessions covering a variety of relevant topicsPre-recorded sessions are available until June 2025Opportunities to earn three graduate credits through the University of the PacificRegister Here

    I hope this episode inspires you to incorporate mind mapping into your counseling practice.

    The possibilities are endless, and it's a fantastic tool to help structure and enhance your programs.

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks...

  • In this episode of Counselor Chat, I dive into your questions about navigating some of the common challenges we face as school counselors. Whether you're preparing for an upcoming interview or trying to optimize your time with students, I've got some tips and stories to help you through. Here's what we covered:

    Episode Highlights:

    Interview Preparation: I share essential advice on how to prepare for job interviews in the educational sector. From choosing the right outfit to preparing answers for typical interview questions, these tips are designed to help you enter your next interview with confidence.Managing Specials Rotation: Many of you have asked how to manage counseling duties when you're part of a specials rotation. I discuss strategies for fitting small group sessions into a packed schedule and ensuring you can provide meaningful support to your students.Participation in IEP Meetings: I tackle the often controversial topic of school counselors' involvement in IEP meetings, offering both legal insights and practical advice to navigate these responsibilities effectively.Engaging Games for Lunch Bunch: Discover fun and engaging games to play during lunch bunch sessions that not only entertain but also facilitate important discussions. From Uno to Apples to Apples, these games help reinforce social skills and build camaraderie among students.Counselor Planner: I also talk about the benefits of using a specialized counselor planner to stay organized and effective throughout the school year.

    Thank you for tuning in and being a part of our counseling community. Your feedback and participation make our conversation richer and more impactful. I look forward to tackling more of your questions in our next episode!

    Links Mentioned:

    Pick A Card Bundle Question PromptsCreate Your Own Counseling GameCoping Skills Card GamePerfect Counselor PlannerSummer Counselor Conference

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

    Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT Store