Lessons, Small Groups, Individual

Students have a guidance lesson in their classroom, taught by Mrs. Pithan, each week for 30 minutes. These lessons focus on various skills and character traits that we all need to be successful learners and citizens. these skills and traits are important for all areas of student's lives as they continue to grow and develop.
Classroom guidance lessons address important preventative and developmental topics to enhance positive character both inside and outside of school.
Lesson topics vary depending on need and may cover concepts such as: bullying, problem solving, teamwork, friendship, emotion management, etc. Some lessons will come from the Second Step curriculum, while others are developed through other means. All lessons meet national counseling standards and are delivered in fun, engaging ways!

Small groups are a great way for multiple students with similar needs to help one another learn skills such as coping with everyday problems, listening in the classroom, or calming down in anxiety-provoking situations. I am able to reach more students at one time and the students can practice social skills and relationship building while simultaneously working on other useful skills. Groups can also be a way for students to bond over similar life experiences such as divorce/changing families or loss. Small groups take place for about 6-8 weeks.
*If you would like your child to participate in any of these groups, please contact me and we can further discuss your concerns and your child's needs!

Throughout the year, students may meet with me, Mrs. Pithan, one-on-one. Students are encouraged to see me if they have a problem that they are having trouble solving and we can work on a solution together. Many students may also have backgrounds or current situations that require more attention. In these sessions, students might draw pictures, play games, write on my white/chalk board, or just talk.
Most of the times I meet with students, I am not counseling them. We are typically building relationships and working together to solve conflicts. In my brief meetings with each student, I strive to help the student remain positive and focus on what they can do vs. cannot do.
*Please note that I do not provide long-term counseling or therapy. When I meet with students, it is brief and not generally intended to last all year.

If you would like to refer your child for individual counseling, please fill out the form in the link below.
- School Counseling Referral