School Counseling Page

Purpose: To support students in developing effective study skills, goal setting, and academic planning.

Services Include:

• Individual academic assessments
• Assistance with course selection and scheduling
• Support for students experiencing academic difficulties
• College and career readiness guidance

Purpose: To promote emotional well-being and positive social interactions among students.

Services Include:

• Confidential individual counseling sessions
• Group sessions on topics like bullying, peer relationships, and self-esteem
• Crisis intervention and support
• Social skills development activities

Purpose: To help students explore career interests and develop future plans.

Services Include:

• Career assessments and interest activities
• Guest speakers on Career Day

Purpose: To assist students in need of additional support in achieving their full potential.

Services Include:

• 504 Plan development
• Accommodations and modifications in the classroom
• Collaboration with teachers and parents
• Transitional planning for secondary education

Purpose: To promote healthy behaviors and prevent issues such as substance abuse, mental health crises, and violence.

Services Include:

• Social Emotional Learning activities
• Anti-bullying campaigns
• Stress management activities
• Mindfulness and resiliency activities

Purpose: To foster a supportive school environment.

Services Include:

• Teacher consultation on student behavioral and emotional needs
• Family counseling referrals when necessary

**Confidentiality** All student information is kept confidential unless safety concerns arise.

Classroom guidance lessons are a very important part of the school setting.  The lessons allow for the counselor to reach students in an effective and time efficient manner. All students participate in classroom guidance lessons once a month.  During this time, students participate in both whole group and small group learning activities to address a variety of social and emotional needs.  Classroom guidance topics include, but are not limited to: responsibility, honesty, empathy/compassion, perseverance, self-discipline/integrity, bullying, anger management, careers, etc.

Small group counseling consists of several students, facilitated by the counselor, who are facing normal developmental issues. The small group setting serves as a way for students to talk about feelings and concerns with other children who have similar needs.  Small group topics include, but are not limited to: friendship and social skills, self-esteem, anger management, etc.

Each session is approximately 15-20 minutes and takes place once a week over 5-6 weeks. Group times are coordinated with classroom teachers so as to disrupt as little instructional time as possible.

Individual counseling is available to all students in need. A request for individual counseling may be made by a parent, teacher, administrator or student. Students are able to express concerns in a safe environment where problem solving can take place. Topics of concern may include: friendship, grief, anger management, anxiety, family changes and school attendance. 

Although we provide a multitude of services for students, intensive, long-term counseling is not available through the school counseling program.

Please fill out the form below to request counseling services for your child.

• Student Counseling Referral Form

Sutherland also implements Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) in students’ everyday learning.  Our PBIS theme is centered around the B.A.R.K. theme, which stands for:

• B – Bring great behavior.
• A – Always show accountability.
• R – Respect yourself and others.
• K – Kindness matters everyday.