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Counseling

OUR ROLES

School counselors are educators uniquely trained in child development, learning strategies, self-management, and social skills, who understand and promote success for today’s diverse students. They implement a school counseling program to support students through this important developmental period. The program provides education, prevention, and intervention activities, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives.

OUR POLICY

The school counseling program at The Wesley School is designed to support the academic, social-emotional, and personal growth of all students in grades K–8. Our counselor works with students, families, teachers, and administrators to create a safe and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive.

Services Provided:

  • Classroom Lessons: Working with administration/staff to develop appropriate lessons on topics such as friendship, problem-solving, emotional regulation, inclusivity, and career awareness.

  • Small Groups: Short-term groups to support skills such as managing anxiety, building self-confidence, and improving peer relationships.

  • Individual Support: Brief, solution-focused counseling to help students with personal, academic, or social challenges. If ongoing therapy is needed, the counselor can provide outside referrals.

  • Collaboration: Partnering with families, teachers, outside support and staff to best support each child’s growth and well-being.

Confidentiality:
Conversations between the counselor and student are kept private unless there is a safety concern (such as harm to self, harm to others, or being harmed by someone else). Parents and guardians are informed when follow-up or additional support may be beneficial.

Accessing Counseling Services:
Students may request to meet with the counselor, or referrals can be made by parents/guardians, teachers, or administrators. Parents are always welcome to reach out directly to the counselor to discuss concerns, seek resources, or request support for their child.

Goal of the Program:
The goal of the school counseling program is to help all students build the skills and confidence they need to be successful learners, caring friends, and responsible community members.

***School counselors DO NOT provide therapy or long-term counseling in schools. However, school counselors are prepared to recognize and respond to student mental health needs and assist students and families seeking resources.

TIERING SYSTEM SERVICES

Tier 1: For all students
Students receive classroom instruction and school- wide social and emotional learning (SEL) programs and activities. Our core curriculum is developmental in nature, preventative and proactive by design, and comprehensive in scope.

Tier 2: For some students
Small group intervention for short term progress monitoring and collaboration among teachers, parents/guardians, and the school counselor until improvement and/or referral to appropriate services can be identified and implemented.

Tier 3: 1:1
Short-term individual consultation in collaboration among teachers, families, administrators, outside agencies or resources, and the school counselor.