The Role of a Middle School Counselor

Classroom Guidance

The School Counselor will go to each classroom and co-facilitate a lesson with the homeroom teacher.  Topics may include friendship skills, problem solving, feelings recognition, coping strategies, career exploration, academic confidence, and similar concepts. 

Small Group Counseling

Students may be invited to participate in a small group with the School Counselor at school.  Small groups can be formed from teacher referrals, parent referrals or if the School Counselor has noticed a need for group instruction.  Parents and/or caregivers will be notified before your child is involved in a small group. Small group topics may include, new students, changing families, grief, self-control, testing preparation, leadership, etc.

Individual Counseling

Students can meet with the School Counselor for individual needs during the school day as well.  Individual counseling may be one conversation or it may be a regular part of a student’s weekly schedule at school.  Students may be referred for individual counseling from a teacher or parent/guardian. To speak to the School Counselor about individual counseling for your child, please contact your School Counselor.

Statement of Confidentiality

It is a priority of the WCVMS School Counselor to practice excellent communication with parents/guardians regarding conversations that take place between the School Counselor and your child.  The WCVMS School Counselor fully understands the importance of teamwork when raising children and strives to make the correct decisions in informing parents of counseling conversations without breaking a trusting relationship that allows your child to open up and grow emotionally.

There are circumstances in which a confidential conversation is necessary.  If the WCVMS School Counselor feels that your child is in danger, is hurting himself or herself or someone else, or exhibiting signs of neglect, then they are legally bound to report their concerns to the Department of Human Services.