Counseling Corner

A school counseling program:

• Follows ASCA (American School Counselor Association) guidelines.
• Is part of the total school program.
• Complements learning in the classroom.
• Is child centered, preventative, and developmental.
• Encourages students’ social, emotional, and personal growth.
• Helps students maximize their potential.

OCS’s program also includes:

Individual Counseling: Individual counseling is provided to students who are referred by parents, teachers, administrators or the counselor. Parental permission is required and services are confidential.

Small Group Counseling: Small group counseling is offered throughout the school year on various topics such as divorce, grief, friendship skills, self-esteem and social skills. Student participation in group is confidential and requires parental permission.

Developmental Classroom Guidance Lessons: Lessons are designed to assist students with their personal/social, academic and career development.

Family Counseling: Meetings are available upon parent request.

Consultations: Assisting staff, families, and community to work with students.

Referrals: Assisting families in identifying and accessing community resources.

The benefits of a School Counseling Program include assisting the student with:

• Understanding self and developing a positive self-image.
• Showing respect for the feelings of others.
• Understanding the decision making process.
• Maintaining effective relationships with peers and adults.
• Developing effective study skills.
• Being prepared to make the transition to the intermediate, middle or high school.
• Becoming responsible for their own behavior.
• Receiving crisis intervention when necessary.

Qualifications include:

• A Master’s Degree
• A state certification as a school guidance counselor

Additionally, special preparation in the following areas:

• Child growth and development
• Individual counseling skills
• Group counseling and guidance skills
• Communication skills
• Elements of career development
• Educational and psychological measurement
• Theory and practice of counseling including exceptional and culturally diverse children
• Philosophy and principles of guidance
• Research and evaluation