Counselor Chat Podcast

156. Spring Fever Is Real: Managing Big Energy & Bigger Behaviors

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:15:00 -0400

Episode Title:

156. Spring Fever Is Real: Managing Big Energy & Bigger Behaviors

🌱 Episode Overview

April is here—and with it comes big energy, distracted students, and behaviors that can leave teachers feeling overwhelmed.

But what if those behaviors aren’t defiance…

What if they’re communication?

In this episode, I’m sharing a powerful reframe that will shift how you see student behavior this time of year—plus simple, practical strategies you can use immediately to support regulation, connection, and readiness to learn.

💡 What You’ll Learn

Why “spring fever” is really a perfect storm of unmet needs
How to reframe behavior from frustration to understanding
The connection between regulation, belonging, and behavior
Why community and purpose matter for both staff and students

🛠️ Quick Tier 1 Strategies You Can Use Right Away

1. Brain Breaks with Purpose

Cross-body movements to support focus
60-second resets for breathing + attention
Intentional movement (not just “random wiggle time”)

2. Reset Routines After Transitions

Build in a 1–2 minute reset after lunch, recess, or specials
Use simple check-ins or grounding exercises
Don’t expect instant regulation—teach it

3. Calm Down Spaces That Actually Work

Focus on regulation—not punishment
Include tools students already know how to use
Practice when students are calm (not just overwhelmed)
Consider portable calm down kits for smaller classrooms

✨ Key Takeaway

“They’re not just acting out… they’re overwhelmed.”

When we shift from asking

“How do I stop this behavior?”

to asking

“What does this student need right now?”

…that’s where real change happens.

Resources Mentioned

Behavior Toolkit

Calm Down Kit

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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155. How Long Is a Lifetime? (And What Are You Going to Do With Yours?)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

Episode 155. How Long Is a Lifetime?

This week on Counselor Chat, I’m zooming out.

Over the past few weeks we’ve talked about college exploration, career research, brackets, and future possibilities. But in this episode I wanted to step back and ask a bigger question — one I ask my upper elementary and middle school students every year:

How long is a lifetime?

To explore that question, I use a simple visual with jellybeans, where each one represents a day of life. When students see them all laid out it feels like forever… until we start sorting them into things like sleeping, working, and everyday routines.

That’s when perspective shifts.

When we do the math together, students realize the average person may spend about 43 years working before retirement. And that leads to one of my favorite questions to ask them:

“If you’re going to spend 43 years working, how do you want those years to feel?”

Instead of focusing only on what job they want someday, students begin thinking about the kind of life they want to build — and how the effort and skills they build now create opportunities later.

In This Episode

• The jellybean lifetime visual and why it resonates with students

• How I help students see the value of their time and future choices

• Why asking students how they want life to feel changes the conversation

• The connection between effort today and opportunities later

• The transferable skills that prepare students for any career path

Sometimes the most powerful lessons aren’t about choosing a career yet.

They’re about helping students understand that their time matters.

Because when you see your life represented by jellybeans, it becomes real.

Resource Mentioned

Future Plans Lesson (How Long Is A Lifetime?)

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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154. March Madness and School Counseling

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

154. March Madness and School Counseling

March Madness already brings energy into our school buildings.

Students are talking about brackets.

There’s excitement.

Competition.

Predictions about who will win.

In this episode, I share how I take that same excitement and turn it into a college and career exploration experience that students find engaging and meaningful.

Because if there’s one thing I want students to feel about their futures, it’s this:

I want their future to feel exciting, not overwhelming.

So instead of basketball teams…

I create a Future Bracket Challenge.

As I tell my students during this lesson:

“What if your future had its own bracket?”

What if colleges competed for you?

What if careers battled it out?

And what if you got to decide what makes it to your Final Four?

In This Episode

• How to turn March Madness energy into meaningful college and career exploration

• The College Research Pennant Project and how it makes research feel celebratory instead of overwhelming

• The Career Research Pennant Project that helps students connect education pathways to real careers

• A Career Cluster Bracket Challenge that encourages critical thinking and reflection

• A Sweet 16 Skills Bracket that explores essential future workplace skills

• Reflection questions that help students identify what matters most in their future

These activities help students begin to see their future not as something distant or intimidating…

But something they can start exploring right now.

Resources Mentioned

Career Research Pennant Project

College Research Pennant Project

These ready-to-use templates include structured research sections and resource links, so students can focus on exploration rather than teachers building materials from scratch.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

153. Shamrocks, Rainbows and Gold: St. Patrick’s Day SEL That Actually Works

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

153. Shamrocks, Rainbows, and Gold: St. Patrick’s Day SEL That Actually Works

March in an elementary school often comes with a little extra magic.

Leprechaun footprints.

Construction paper rainbows.

Gold coins hidden in classrooms.

But seasonal fun doesn’t have to mean fluffy lessons.

In this episode, I'm sharing creative ways to turn St. Patrick’s Day excitement into meaningful social-emotional learning experiences that students will actually remember.

You’ll hear simple strategies you can use right away to teach growth mindset, resilience, goal setting, impulse control, and emotional regulation — all while leaning into the fun of the season.

As I remind students during one of these lessons:

“Some people think leprechauns bring the gold… but what if the real gold comes from effort?”

In This Episode

• A Luck vs Effort growth mindset lesson students love

• How to use rainbows to teach goal setting

• Turning leprechaun traps into problem-solving activities

• A character traits treasure hunt with gold coins

• A gratitude shift from “I’m lucky because…” to “I worked hard for…”

• A playful impulse control lesson: Leprechaun Trick or Think

• Rainbow Regulation coping strategies for younger students

These activities help students understand that success isn’t about luck.

It’s about effort, perseverance, and learning along the way.

Seasonal lessons can absolutely be fun.

But when you add purpose, reflection, and conversation, they become something much more powerful.

Because when students are laughing, engaged, and thinking…

That’s when the learning sticks.

And that might just be the real pot of gold.

Resources Mentioned

Luck vs Effort Lesson

Lucky Day Icebreakers

Being Golden with your Cyber Smarts

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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152. MTSS-B Made Simple: How Teams Decide What Students Really Need

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

Behavior concerns often land squarely on the school counselor’s shoulders, leaving counselors feeling overwhelmed, reactive, and stretched thin.

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm breaking down MTSS for Behavior (MTSSB) in a clear, practical way that centers teamwork, intentional decision-making, and counselor sustainability.

This conversation moves away from compliance and paperwork and toward systems that actually work for students and the adults who support them.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

What MTSSB really means and why it matters
The difference between reacting to behavior and responding intentionally
Why behavior decisions should always be team-based
How to think about Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 supports without overwhelm
What data-informed decisions look like in real school settings
How a clear intervention menu reduces emotional decision-making and burnout

Key Quote

“MTSSB isn’t about reacting faster. It’s about responding smarter.”

Reflection Questions from the Episode:

Who is currently making Tier 2 behavior decisions in your building?
What data are you actually using, and is it useful?
Do you have a clear intervention menu, or are you reinventing the wheel each time?

Resources Mentioned:

MTSS Behavior Toolkit

Behavior Choice Survey Bundle

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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151. The Words Matter: Small Language Shifts That Make a Big Difference

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0400

Episode 151: The Words Matter: Small Language Shifts That Make a Big Difference

The words we use as school counselors matter more than we sometimes realize.

In this practical episode, I talk about everyday phrases we often say automatically and how small shifts in language can create more safety, validation, and trust for students, parents, staff, and ourselves.

This isn’t about doing things wrong. It’s about becoming more intentional with our words, especially when we’re tired, rushed, or navigating emotional situations.

In this episode, we explore:

Why phrases like “It’s going to be okay” or “At least…” don’t always land as intended
Language shifts that validate emotions without escalating them
How curiosity-based phrasing changes the tone of conversations
Ways to reduce defensiveness when working with parents and teachers
Why scripts are a helpful support during high-emotion moments
How the language we use with ourselves impacts burnout and longevity

As you move through your week, I invite you to notice your language without judging it. Just notice where a small shift might help someone feel more seen, heard, and supported.

You don’t need to change everything. One intentional change can make a real difference.

Thank you for the heart you bring to this work every single day.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

150. Not Every Week Is a Highlight Reel

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0400

Episode 150: Not Every Week Is a Highlight Reel

Not every National School Counseling Week looks like a highlight reel, and that’s okay.

In this reflective episode, I share a personal experience from my own school where carefully made plans for National School Counseling Week were replaced by grief, crisis response, and the need to simply be present for students and staff.

This episode is for counselors who felt exhausted, unseen, or overwhelmed, and for anyone who needed permission to let something go.

In this episode, I cover:

Why National School Counseling Week can feel complicated and emotional
How unexpected events can shift even the best-laid plans
What it means to truly “do enough” as a school counselor
Why quiet work still matters, even when it isn’t celebrated

A moment from the episode that I hope stays with you:

“Sometimes doing what we can with what we have is the most realistic and compassionate choice.”

If National School Counseling Week didn’t look the way you hoped, if you stayed quiet, or if you focused on crisis instead of celebration, I want you to know this: you didn’t fail. You’re human. And the work you do every day still makes a difference.

Thank you for being here and for all you give to this profession.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

149. Lives Worth Living with Steve Sharp and Perri Rosen

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:30:00 -0400

Episode 148: Lives Worth Living with Steve Sharp and Perri Rosen

In this episode, I’m joined by Steve Sharp (a middle school counselor in Pennsylvania) and Dr. Perri Rosen (a nationally certified school psychologist and former special educator) to talk about their new book, Lives Worth Living: Applying the Zero Suicide Approach in Schools.

We have an honest, practical conversation about how suicide prevention in schools has often been treated as “crisis response only”—and why the work we do before a crisis (SEL, belonging, school climate, connection) is a critical part of prevention too.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Why suicide prevention is often seen as “its own box” in schools—and how to broaden that mindset
What the Zero Suicide framework is and why it can be adapted for school systems
How SEL, belonging, and school climate function as real protective factors
What school counselors may need to unlearn about suicide prevention
Why “refer out and hope it resolves” isn’t the full picture—and how schools still play a role in recovery
Why re-entry and connection matter so much after a suicide-related crisis
How data and continuous improvement can strengthen a school-wide prevention system over time

“You don’t have to layer on all of these other things… it’s many of the things you’re already doing. It’s just making those connections.”

Key Takeaway:

Suicide prevention isn’t just a training or a risk assessment—it’s the systems we build, the connections we create, and the culture of belonging we protect, so students can truly live lives worth living.

If this episode encouraged you, I’d love for you to follow the podcast and leave a review—it helps other school counselors find support, resources, and reminders that they’re not alone in this work.

Resources Mentioned:

Lives Worth Living

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

148. Amplifying Student Success Through Stories

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I celebrate the powerful connection between National School Counseling Week and World Read Aloud Day, and why stories play such a meaningful role in student success.

I share how read-alouds create emotional safety, help students name their feelings, and open doors for conversations that might otherwise feel too hard to start. I also read an excerpt from my children’s book, Sammy’s Sad Day, and walked through simple, practical ways counselors can use storytelling as a Tier 1 support in classrooms, small groups, and beyond.

This episode is a reminder that success isn’t just measured in data — it’s felt in connection.

In This Episode, I Talk About:

Why student success starts with emotional safety, not just academics
How stories create shared emotional language for students
Why read-alouds work so well as low-pressure counseling tools
Using books as Tier 1 support for whole-class and school-wide impact
Simple reflection questions that build emotional literacy
How connection changes behavior and learning outcomes

“You amplify student success when a student feels seen, a teacher uses language you modeled, and a child realizes they’re not alone.

Links Mentioned

Sammy's Sad Day

Perks National School Counseling Week Free Month Deal

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

147. Midyear School Counseling Data Check (Without the Stress)

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 05:15:00 -0400

January has a way of sneaking up on me—and usually bringing one big question with it: How’s your data looking?

In this episode, I’m sharing a realistic, no-pressure approach to doing a midyear data check, without the guilt, the overwhelm, or the unrealistic expectation of having “perfect” charts and reports. This conversation is all about using what you already have to guide meaningful next steps for your students, instead of stressing over what you didn’t collect.

In This Episode, I Talk About:

Why “real data” doesn’t always live in spreadsheets and graphs
What actually counts as meaningful data in a real school setting
Simple reflection questions I use to spot trends and changing needs
How I know when it’s time to adjust groups, lessons, or interventions
Why January is more about course correction than evaluation
How my own energy and workload often point to important patterns

Reflection Questions I Share:

What feels heavier than it did in the fall?
What feels lighter?
Who am I seeing more often—and who am I seeing less?
What has surprised me so far this year?

“You don’t need more data to prove you’re doing meaningful work. You just need enough information to guide your next steps.”

Key Takeaway:

Midyear data isn’t about proving everything worked—it’s about asking one powerful question:

What do students need now?

If this episode encouraged you, I’d love for you to follow the podcast and leave a review—it helps other counselors find support, ideas, and practical strategies too.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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146. How School Counselors Can Help With Attendance, Motivation, and Engagement

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:15:00 -0400

January is often when attendance challenges start to feel impossible (for students and for counselors). In this episode, I break down why attendance dips during the winter months, how to reframe attendance as a support issue rather than a compliance issue, and what counselors can realistically do to help students re-engage with school.

This episode focuses on compassion, collaboration, and practical strategies that honor what students are really experiencing.

You’ll Learn:

Common reasons attendance declines in January (illness, anxiety, routine changes, weather, and more)
Why framing attendance as a symptom changes how students respond
Language counselors can use to talk about attendance without blame
Layered counseling supports for students with chronic absences
How small wins (fewer tardies, staying longer, asking for help) matter more than perfect data
Engagement strategies that increase motivation and belonging

Quote from the Episode

“Students don’t avoid school because they don’t care. They avoid school because something feels really hard.”

Resources Mentioned:

Attendance Small Group

Middle School Attendance Lesson (grades 6-7)

Barriers To Attendance Lesson (grades K-1)

Academic Success Attendance Lesson (grades 2-3)

Barriers to Attendance (grades 4-5)

Chronic Attendance Intervention Lesson (grade 8)

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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145. How School Counselors Can Support Big Feelings in the New Year

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:15:00 -0400

January can feel especially tough in schools. Big emotions, increased anxiety, mood changes, and shutdown behaviors often show up as students transition back from break. In this episode, I’m breaking down why January feels so hard, and what school counselors can do to support students in ways that are compassionate, practical, and sustainable.

In this episode, I discuss:

Why January creates emotional and behavioral shifts for students
How anxiety shows up differently across age groups
The difference between behavior problems and regulation problems
Why predictability is essential for reducing anxiety
Counselor strategies to restore safety and routine
Low-pressure Tier 1 lesson ideas for January
Small group supports for anxiety, coping skills, and transitions
Trauma-informed practices that prioritize connection before correction

Key Quote from the Episode

“Anxiety increases when predictability decreases.”

Counselor Takeaway

January isn’t about fixing feelings or pushing through. It’s about regrounding, rebuilding routines, and helping students feel safe enough to learn again. Small supports matter—and they add up.

Thank you for showing up for your students and for yourself. Your work matters more than you know.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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144. New Year, Same Counselor

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:15:00 -0400

January has a way of making counselors feel like they should start over with new systems, new routines, new everything. But what if that pressure is actually working against your effectiveness?

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm offering a grounded reframe for the new year: you don’t need to become a brand-new counselor just because the calendar changed.

Instead, this episode invites you to slow down, protect your energy, and focus on what already works.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

Why January pressure can lead to burnout instead of clarity
A simple explanation of the law of diminishing returns in school counseling
How “doing more” can actually reduce your impact
Why small tweaks matter more than big overhauls
Practical ways to carry fall systems into the spring
Three gentle reflection prompts to guide your January planning

“Sometimes less truly is more — especially when it comes to protecting your energy and sustaining your impact.”

January Reflection Prompts:

What is one counseling routine that felt manageable in the fall?
What is one lesson, group, or system I don’t need to reinvent?
What is one thing I can stop doing to protect my energy?

This episode is a reminder that:

You are not starting over
Your relationships still matter
Your systems didn’t disappear
And sustainability is what carries you through March, April, and May

✨ New year. Same counselor. Stronger boundaries. Smarter focus.

Thanks for being here, counselor friend.

You’re doing important work — even when it doesn’t feel loud or new.

⭐ If this episode helped you, a quick review means more than you know

Until next time — I hope you have a really great week.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Episode 83

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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143. What If I Don't Feel Motivated To Go Back To Work (ICYMI)

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 05:15:00 -0400

As the calendar turns to a new year, many school counselors find themselves holding a mix of emotions about heading back to work. Motivation might feel low, energy might feel scattered, and that sense of readiness may not be there yet.

In this New Year’s Eve re-listen, I'm revisiting Episode 41 of Counselor Chat Podcast, a conversation counselors return to again and again when break comes to an end.

This episode is a reminder that feeling unmotivated, heavy, or unsure about returning to school is normal. Motivation does not magically appear on January 1st, and you do not need to have everything figured out before heading back.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

Why mixed emotions after a break are completely normal
How different breaks can bring different feelings from year to year
The importance of acknowledging your emotions instead of pushing through them
How reconnecting with your “why” can ground you when motivation feels low
Simple strategies to ease back into work, including building white space into your calendar
Why prioritizing tasks and letting go of doing everything at once matters
The power of reconnecting with colleagues for support and perspective
Gentle reminders about self care and protecting your energy

You are not alone, and you are allowed to take this transition one step at a time.

Mentioned in the Episode:

Energy Inventory: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eXT5jXvwueU39AGvkFYq7-wvom9TiSns/view?usp=sharing

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

142. Advice from Counselors to Counselors (ICYMI)

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:15:00 -0400

As the holiday season arrives, we’re revisiting one of the most meaningful episodes of Counselor Chat — a conversation filled with honest advice, encouragement, and reminders from counselors who truly understand the work.

In this episode, counselors from across the country share the wisdom they wish they had when they were new to the profession — advice that’s just as powerful for seasoned counselors navigating full plates, shifting priorities, and year-end reflection.

You’ll hear thoughtful insights on:

The importance of visibility and relationship-building
Giving yourself grace and letting go of perfection
Asking for help and leaning on your support system
Balancing heart work with realistic expectations
Caring for yourself while caring for others
Remembering that even the smallest moments matter

This episode feels like sitting down with colleagues who get it — the challenges, the joy, the exhaustion, and the purpose behind the work you do every day.

Whether you’re listening on a walk, at the gym, or during a quiet moment of rest, my hope is that this re-listen meets you exactly where you are and reminds you that you are not alone.

Ready to share your tips and advice on a upcoming episode? Just hit this link, and then press record on your phone or device. Easy peasy! https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/325646/26/h0ldegvcaj9roa3k

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

141. The School Counselor’s Holiday Survival Guide

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:15:00 -0400

December in schools hits different.

The schedules are off. The kids are buzzing. The teachers are exhausted. And counselors are somehow expected to be part Santa, part therapist, and part crisis manager… all before lunch.

If your December feels especially full, you are not imagining it.

In this week’s episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing The School Counselor’s Holiday Survival Guide. It’s a realistic, no-pressure conversation about how to get through this season without losing your sanity or your joy.

In this episode, we talk about:

Why December feels so intense for school counselors
How to simplify lessons and expectations without guilt
What to do when plans constantly change
Setting boundaries that protect your energy and still support your school
Supporting students who struggle emotionally during the holidays
Finding small moments of calm and joy for yourself

One of my favorite reminders from this episode is this:

“Your goal right now is not to win Counselor of the Season. Your goal is to get to winter break in one piece.”

If you’ve been feeling tired, stretched thin, or like you’re barely keeping up, this episode is your permission slip to simplify and take care of yourself, too.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

140. Finding Calm in the Counselor Chaos

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Episode 140: Finding Calm in the Counselor Chaos

December brings a special kind of school chaos. Schedules shift. Energy skyrockets. Teachers and students feel stretched. And counselors often find themselves trying to hold it all together.

In this episode, I am sharing simple ways to stay grounded, centered, and calm during one of the busiest months of the school year.

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

• Common early signs of counselor burnout

• Why noticing burnout is an act of wisdom, not weakness

• Easy micro practices that take 30 seconds to 2 minutes

• A guided one-minute breathing reset you can use anytime

• How to let go of perfection and choose simplicity

• Ways to weave calm moments into your day without adding tasks

Quote From the Episode

"You are doing enough. You are enough, and you are allowed to rest."

Encouragement for the Week

December may be busy, but you do not have to absorb all the chaos around you. Take a pause, take a breath, and give yourself permission to rest. You are doing more good than you know.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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139. Growing Gratitude in Your Counseling Program

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:30:00 -0400

December can feel like a whirlwind in schools, which makes it the perfect time to slow down and center students in one of the most grounding SEL themes we have: gratitude.

In this episode, I am sharing simple, meaningful ways to introduce gratitude to students of all ages, plus ideas for weaving it into your counseling program throughout the whole month.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why gratitude boosts mood, relationships, and academic outcomes

• How gratitude connects to all five CASEL competencies

• How I use the book Last Stop on Market Street to introduce perspective and meaning

• Reflection questions that help deepen student understanding

• My daily Witness Moment practice and how students can create gratitude snapshots

• A gratitude acorn activity that helps younger students understand growth

• A powerful gratitude cross the line lesson for older students

• Schoolwide ideas: gratitude walls, gratitude grams, morning announcements

• How to track simple Tier 1 data when implementing gratitude centered lessons

Quote From the Episode

"It can start off tiny, just like an acorn, but gratitude has a way of growing into something great."

Encouragement for the Week

As we close out the year, gratitude becomes a beautiful reminder of why we do this work. Whether it is an acorn on the wall, a hallway display, or a quiet moment in your office, I hope you always find ways to grow gratitude in your school this season.

Resources Mentioned:

Last Stop On Market Street

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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138. The Gratitude Circle for Counselors: Finding Joy in the Work You Do

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Right before Thanksgiving, in the middle of progress reports, last-minute meetings, and all the pumpkin spice in the world, it can be easy to miss the small moments that actually fuel us.

This episode is a gentle pause.

A breath.

A circle of gratitude created for you.

I asked counselors in my Facebook groups what they are most grateful for, and their answers were pure joy, connection, and heart. Today I am sharing their stories, along with a few of my own, as a reminder that even in the chaos, the work you do every day truly matters.

✨ What You Will Hear in This Episode:

Why the weeks before Thanksgiving feel especially heavy
The power of stopping to notice the good
A collective gratitude circle filled with counselor shared moments
Students choosing time with their counselor as their reward
Kids using calm down strategies and repeating your words back to you
When a student calls you their trusted adult
Why small wins often matter the most
Real stories of connection from counselors across the country
A quick 30 second gratitude practice you can do anytime
Simple ideas to keep the gratitude going at school

💬 Quote from the Episode

“Emotional safety is such a quiet form of love, and when kids choose to show up in your space, that is gratitude in motion.”

💛 Encouragement for the Week

Take a moment today to name one thing you are grateful for in your work, with no posting or documenting, just a quiet acknowledgment of a meaningful moment.

You are the safe space.

You are the trusted adult.

You are the calm in the storm.

And that is something to be profoundly grateful for.

Happy Thanksgiving, counselor friends. I appreciate you more than you know. 💛

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

137. Reframing Behavior: From Punishment to Problem-Solving

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this week's podcast we look at pre-holiday behavior spikes through a problem-solving lens. Instead of “How do we punish this?” we ask, “What skill is missing?” She models restorative conversations, shares reflection tools that build self-awareness, and walks through calm-down strategies that help students regulate before you problem-solve.

Key takeaways

Behavior = communication. Shift from “what’s wrong with the student?” to “what’s happening for the student?”
Use restorative approaches: understand harm, take responsibility, repair relationships, restore trust.
Reflection > reaction: guided behavior reflection sheets connect thoughts, feelings, needs, and next steps.
Regulation first: you can’t consequence a child into calm; teach calming tools, then problem-solve.
Mindset shift: connection before correction; growth over guilt.

Try-it-now tools

Restorative questions:

What happened? • What were you thinking/feeling? • Who was affected & how? • What makes it right? • What will you do next time?

Behavior Reflection prompts:

Trigger • Feeling • Need • Better choice next time • Who to repair with & how (what a real apology looks/sounds like).

Calm-down strategies:

Square/5-finger breathing, grounding (5–4–3–2–1), movement/water break, sensory tools (rings, stress balls), feelings check-ins/thermometers.

Scenario highlight

“Jayden in the line”: Instead of office + lecture, Carol uses a brief restorative chat/circle + reflection sheet to move from guilt to growth and repair.

Counselor moves to start this week

Model restorative conversations (skip “Why did you do that?”).
Teach emotion language (feeling wheels, visuals, daily check-ins).
Build a Behavior Reflection Toolkit for you and teachers.

Quote to remember

“Punishment might stop the behavior, but it doesn’t heal what’s underneath. Problem-solving does.”

Connect

Follow Carol on IG: @counselingessentials
Share what’s in your calm-down kit and tag the show!

Think Sheets

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

136. Values in Action: Helping Students Navigate Moral Dilemmas

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:15:00 -0400

How do we help students stand by their values even when doing so might cost them friends?

In this week’s episode, I'm sharing how a simple story—The Fall Festival Dilemma—sparked powerful conversations about honesty, belonging, and integrity.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to use moral dilemmas to help students reflect on their values
Ways to move from “teaching right and wrong” to helping kids live their beliefs
Discussion prompts that build empathy, courage, and critical thinking
How to connect values lessons to ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors and CASEL’s Responsible Decision-Making competency
Why standing up for what’s right helps students develop confidence and character

💡 Quote of the Episode:

“Values aren’t just beliefs—they’re actions. Real values show up when they cost you something.”

Resources Mentioned:

The Fall Festival Dilemma

Perks Content Club

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

135. Restorative Practices: Building a Culture of Kindness That Lasts

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:15:00 -0400

October might be over, but kindness shouldn’t be. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing how restorative practices can take your school from reactive to relational — and how simple daily routines can build a culture where students feel safe, seen, and supported.

Restorative practices aren’t about punishment; they’re about connection. When we focus on building relationships first, we prevent harm — and when harm does happen, we know how to repair it with empathy and understanding.

I’ll walk you through what this looks like at each tier — from morning greetings and check-ins to community circles and peer mediation programs — so you can start building a stronger sense of belonging right where you are.

✨ In this episode, I share:

Simple ways to weave restorative practices into your daily routines
How to use greetings, check-ins, and circles to strengthen relationships
What each tier of restorative practice looks like in action
Why reflection, not punishment, leads to lasting behavior change
How connection and accountability go hand in hand

If you’ve been looking for a way to take your anti-bullying work beyond October, this episode will help you do just that — one greeting, one circle, one conversation at a time.

Because when we build connection into every day, kindness becomes who we are, not just what we do. 💛

Links Mentioned:

Community Circles Beginning Bundle

Community Circles Self-Awareness Bundle

Community Circles Self-Management Bundle

Community Circles Social-Awareness Bundle

Think Sheets

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

134. How to Build an Anti-Bullying Culture That Lasts Beyond October

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:15:00 -0400

October is packed—Red Ribbon Week, conferences, spirit days, and of course, Bullying Prevention Month. But if we really want to create schools where students feel safe, seen, and supported, our work has to go deeper than themed t-shirts and hashtag campaigns.

In this episode, I’m sharing how to build an anti-bullying culture that lasts long after October ends — one rooted in empathy, connection, and consistency.

Here’s what I’ll walk you through:

🌱 What a real anti-bullying culture looks like
🧭 How to weave kindness and empathy into Tier 1 classroom lessons
💬 Creative Tier 2 ideas like Kindness Clubs and leadership groups
🏫 Whole-school strategies that make kindness part of your school’s DNA
📊 Why data matters—and how to show that kindness work truly changes climate

Because awareness is great, but awareness alone doesn’t change behavior. Culture does.

My favorite reminder from this episode:

“Awareness is just the spark. But culture change? That’s the flame that keeps you burning all year long.”

So grab your coffee (and maybe a donut if you have one), and let’s talk about how to make kindness stick all year long.

Links Mentioned:

Building Champions Small Group

Top Secret Kindness Club Small Group

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Perks Membership

133. The Candy Corn Principle: Why You Can’t Please Everyone

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing one of my favorite fall-inspired lessons — what I like to call The Candy Corn Principle.

You know how people either love or hate candy corn? Well, the same goes for our work as school counselors. No matter how much heart, effort, or intention we pour into our programs, not everyone is going to love what we do — and that’s okay.

In this episode, I’m talking about why trying to please everyone can leave you burned out and how to stay focused on what truly matters: making a difference for your students.

Here’s what I’ll walk you through:

🎯 The real reason people-pleasing feels so natural (and so exhausting)
🧭 How to protect your time and purpose with healthy boundaries
💬 Calm, professional ways to say “no” without guilt
💡 Why consistency earns respect faster than trying to please everyone
❤️ How to shift from seeking approval to staying aligned with your mission

My favorite reminder from this episode:

“You’re not here to make everyone happy. You’re here to make a difference. And those two things are not the same.”

So grab your coffee (and maybe a handful of candy corn), and join me for a sweet little reminder that your value isn’t defined by how many people approve — it’s measured by the difference you make every single day.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

132. Empathy in Action: Kindness Lessons for October

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In honor of Bullying Prevention Month, I'm exploring how counselors can help students move beyond “Don’t be a bully” to living empathy through meaningful, collaborative kindness projects.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

The difference between teaching empathy and practicing it
Simple schoolwide projects that create a culture of kindness:
Classroom extensions like kindness tickets, secret kindness agents, and gratitude postcards

Lead with empathy — not just awareness. Don’t just define kindness. Show it. Celebrate it. Let it grow.

Resources mentioned:

Where Oliver Fits Lesson

Books Mentioned:

The Kindness Quilt

Kindness Grows

Where Oliver Fits

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

131. It’s All Coming In: Managing Referrals Like a Pro

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:15:00 -0400

The first few weeks of school are often a blur of class schedules, new faces, and back-to-school energy—but they’re also the time when every referral seems to come in at once.

In this episode, I'm breaking down how to handle that wave of requests without losing your mind (or your lunch break). You’ll learn how to triage like a pro, set healthy boundaries with staff, and create systems that save your future self a ton of time and stress.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why referral overload is actually a good sign (and how to manage it)
Carol’s 3-T Triage System: Time-Sensitive, Tiered, and Transparent
How to streamline referrals with a Google Form
What to say instead of “That’s not my job” (without burning bridges)
Why your language matters when setting boundaries
A simple way to track referrals for data and advocacy

Encouragement for Counselors:

You don’t have to do it all at once. You just need a system, a plan, and permission to pause. Triage your time. Lead with heart. And remember—you’re not behind, you’re building something sustainable.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

130. Recognizing the Signs: Early Indicators of Student Struggle

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:15:00 -0400

The first few weeks of school aren’t just about bulletin boards and icebreakers. They’re the perfect time to notice the small shifts in our students that tell us something deeper might be going on.

In this episode, I'm sharing practical ways to recognize red flags early, along with strategies to check in without making students feel called out.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

How to spot withdrawal in a student who used to be engaged
Why perfectionism may really be anxiety in disguise
When humor turns from fun to a red flag
The patterns behind frequent nurse visits
How to check in with “everything’s fine” students
The top “early warning radar” signs to watch for weeks 1–4

Encouragement for Counselors:

Your instincts matter. Be curious, not judgmental. A small check-in today can redirect the entire course of a student’s year, and sometimes, their life.

Links Mentioned:

Forced Choice Behavioral Surveys

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

129. Your First Counselor Newsletter of the Year

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:15:00 -0400

“What do you do again?” If you’ve ever heard this question, you already know why visibility matters. In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into how a simple monthly newsletter can help you advocate for your role, connect with staff and families, and showcase the true impact of school counseling.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

The 5 essential pieces every counselor newsletter should include
Practical ways to share updates, events, and tips without overwhelming yourself
How newsletters shift the perception of counselors from “crisis response” to essential leadership
Why visibility = value when it comes to your program
A shortcut resource if you’re too busy to design from scratch

Links & Resources:

Counselor Newsletter Templates

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

128. Collaborating with Admin Without Feeling Like the “Other” Team

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Do you ever feel like you and your principal are speaking two different languages? Maybe you’ve been asked to cover lunch duty, sit in on last-minute student issues, or explain (again) why your role matters. You’re not alone—and you’re not powerless.

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re talking about how to collaborate with administrators without feeling like you’re constantly on defense. You’ll learn how to reset your mindset, swap your language, and use strategy that strengthens your working relationships.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

How to shift your mindset from undervalued to essential leader
Language swaps that turn “ASCA says…” into solutions your admin wants to say yes to
Why aligning your work with schoolwide goals (attendance, achievement, behavior) is a game-changer
Practical scripts for saying no without confrontation
How data makes your advocacy more compelling than feelings ever could

If you’ve ever wondered how to stop being seen as “the other team” and start being seen as an essential member of the leadership team, this one’s for you.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

127. Suicide Prevention in Schools: What Counselors Need to Know

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Suicide prevention isn’t easy to talk about—but it’s a conversation we can’t afford to avoid. In this episode of Counselor Chat, I share strategies, stories, and resources to help school counselors navigate this difficult but critical topic.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

How to have age-appropriate conversations with students about suicide and mental health.
Practical steps for creating student safety plans that are clear, collaborative, and effective.
The role teachers play as gatekeepers, and how training can help them recognize signs and take appropriate action.
Why we need to set expectations with staff about reporting concerns immediately—not at the end of the day.
How we as counselors can support not just students, but also teachers, staff, and families in this work.

💡 Remember: suicide prevention isn’t only about stopping a crisis—it’s about building hope, creating systems of support, and reminding students that they matter.

🔗 Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grades 6-7 Suicide Prevention Lesson

Suicide Prevention Grades 8 and up Lesson

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

126. The High 5 Habit: Start the School Year with a Boost

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Sometimes the smallest gestures hold the biggest power. In this episode, we’re talking about how the High Five Habit can transform your energy, your relationships, and your school year.

What you’ll discover in this episode:

How high fives activate your brain’s reward center and lift your mood.
Simple ways to use high fives with students, colleagues, and even yourself.
The importance of celebrating presence and effort—not just performance.
Ideas like high five rituals and creating a school-wide high five wall.
Why giving yourself a high five in the mirror can shift your confidence and outlook.

Whether it’s literal, symbolic, or metaphorical, high fives are a powerful reminder that we see each other, we’re not alone, and we’re worth cheering for.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

125. Crisis Prep for the New School Year

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Crisis isn’t on your calendar—but it will find its way into your school year. From grief to suicide risk to behavioral outbursts, these moments change everything in an instant. In this episode, I share how to build a Crisis Toolkit so you’re ready to respond with care, structure, and sanity when the unexpected comes knocking.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to approach student grief with honesty, check-ins, and healing resources.
What protocols and tools to have ready when a student expresses suicidal thoughts.
The must-have elements of a behavioral crisis communication and de-escalation plan.
What to include in your crisis go-bag and why post-crisis support matters as much as the response itself.

Motivation to Take With You:

The best time to prepare for a storm is before the clouds roll in. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to be prepared. Because you, counselor friend, are the calm in the chaos, the heartbeat in the hard stuff, and the soft landing for students who need it most.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

124. Blueberries, Butterfat, and the Beautiful Mess of School Counseling

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Episode Summary:

What does ice cream have to do with school counseling? More than you might think. In this episode, I share the famous Blueberry Story—a tale that perfectly captures the heart of what we do as counselors. While businesses can send back “bad batches,” schools take every child who walks through the doors—gifted, anxious, angry, brilliant, frightened, and everything in between.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The surprising connection between ice cream and education.
Why schools can’t—and shouldn’t—be run like businesses.
How school counselors act as cultivators of every “blueberry” who enters their care.
Why small, messy, and unmeasurable moments with students matter more than any spreadsheet.

Motivation to Take With You:

You don’t need perfect ingredients to create transformation. Every day, you’re doing life-changing work—not with butterfat percentages or flawless blueberries, but with patience, empathy, and heart. You’re cultivating growth in a patch that’s sometimes messy, sometimes wild, but always worth it.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

Bulletproof Your Schedule: Time-Blocking for School Counselors

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:15:00 -0400

If you’ve ever felt like your day is one giant interruption, this episode is for you.

In this week’s Counselor Chat, I'm sharing my go-to strategies for using time-blocking to create structure, reduce chaos, and make room for what matters most in your school counseling program.

Inside this episode, you’ll discover:

What time-blocking is really about (hint: it’s not rigid—it’s freeing!)
The 5 key “Counselor Buckets” to organize your time effectively
How to plan for flexibility with daily crisis buffers and walk-in time
The tools Carol uses (Google Calendar, a printed planner, and color-coding)
How to communicate your availability and reduce unnecessary interruptions
Tips for reviewing, adjusting, and staying consistent—without guilt

Whether you’re a sticky-note scheduler or a digital calendar pro, this episode will help you manage your time with intention—and protect your peace in the process.

Links Mentioned:

Perfect Counselor Planner-

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

Team Up! Collaborating with Teachers from Day One

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Let’s be honest—back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind. But there’s one move that can make the whole year smoother: teaming up with teachers from the start.

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm walking you through simple and creative ways to build trust and connection with your teaching staff—without adding more stress to your plate.

You’ll learn:

Why visibility and approachability are your superpowers
What to include in a 1-page Counselor Cheat Sheet 📝
How to use small gestures (like hand sanitizer and chocolate 🍫) to open big doors
The power of asking, “What do your students need right now?”
Creative ways to co-create lessons and build classroom calm corners
Quick wins for consistent collaboration (hello, Coffee on a Cart ☕)

Whether you’re brand new or just ready for a fresh approach, this episode will leave you feeling equipped and encouraged to be the kind of teammate teachers rely on—and students benefit from most.

Links Mentioned:

Counselor Brochure Bundle

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

121. Podcast Takeover: with Carey Hughes

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:45:00 -0400

In this inspiring guest episode of Counselor Chat, Carey Hughes and Rachel Haglin take the mic to share how a simple shift in mindset — and one powerful administrative conference — led to real advocacy and real results.

They didn’t just talk about change. They led it. And it’s already transforming their district.

🔑 In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why “It’s a program, not a position” is more than a mantra — it’s a movement
How Carey and Rachel used the ASCA Annual Administrative Conference to align with school goals
What happened when they presented data and needs directly to district leadership
The behind-the-scenes story of becoming lead counselors — and how it started with a letter
What to do when advocacy doesn’t work right away (hint: it’s a marathon, not a sprint)

This episode is your reminder that small steps — when led with heart, data, and courage — can lead to powerful, lasting change.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

120. Things I'm Doing Now So August Isn't A Dumpster Fire!

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:15:00 -0400

August doesn’t have to feel like a whirlwind of late nights, unlaminated posters, and cold cups of coffee. I'll share the 10 intentional steps I'm taking this summer to avoid the dreaded back-to-school chaos—and how you can do the same.

From organizing your counseling office (yes, both paper files and those prehistoric Google Docs) to prepping data tools, small group plans, and even your go-to “counselor tote,” Carol walks through the exact systems and routines she’s setting up now to make the start of the school year smoother and calmer.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to organize your office and digital files so everything’s easy to find in September.
Why building a counseling calendar template now helps you feel grounded before the school year begins.
The value of printing your most-used materials—like referral forms and coping tools—in bulk before the rush hits.
How to map out small groups, classroom lessons, and SEL initiatives for the year in advance.
What to pack in your Counselor Go Bag so you’re ready for anything.
Why updating your bulletin boards, décor, and intro lessons early makes your life so much easier.
And most importantly, how to fill your own cup first so you’re not running on empty when the students return.

Plus, I'm sharing details about my upcoming session, “Putting Out Fires All Day: From Crisis Response to Proactive Programming,” at the 2025 Summer Counselor Conference—the perfect chance to fill your cup with inspiration and practical tools.

Because a little prep now? It equals a lot more peace later.

Links I mentioned:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

119. Smart Ways to Split a Counseling Caseload

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Are you navigating a new caseload structure this year? Wondering how to divide the work with a co-counselor without splitting the heart of your program? In this episode, I'm sharing practical strategies and real-life examples of caseload division that works—plus the bumps to avoid.

You’ll learn:

📚 The most common caseload split models (Alphabet, Grade-Level, MTSS, and more)
🧠 The benefits—and drawbacks—of each
🤝 Pro tips for dividing responsibilities beyond the caseload
🔄 Why it’s okay to try, tweak, and test different models

Whether you’re brand new to a team or refining what’s already in place, this episode will help you rethink what’s possible with collaboration, creativity, and a plan.

Encouragement from the episode:

“At the end of the day, there really is no perfect way to split a caseload. The goal isn’t just fairness—it’s functionality and support. What matters most is that students know who to go to, staff knows how to get help, and counselors support each other.”

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

118. Counselor Catch-Up: What I’m Reading, Learning, and Loving This Summer

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:15:00 -0400

This week on Counselor Chat, we’re taking a break from the heavy stuff and diving into a little mid-summer magic. It’s a personal episode full of recommendations, reflections, and fun finds that are keeping me grounded, growing, and even a little more organized during these sunny months.

Here’s what I’m sharing:

📚 What I’m Reading

🎧 What I’m Listening To

📺 What I’m Watching

🥗 What I’m Cooking

✨ What’s Coming Up:

I’ll be at the ASCA Conference in Long Beach! Stop by the Perks booth and say hi!
Registration is open for the 2025 Summer Counselor Conference — where I’ll be presenting “Putting Out Fires All Day” to help you shift from reactive to proactive in your school counseling practice.

💛 Inspiration to close your day with:

"Whether it’s a new book to read, a show to chill with, or a way to get back into your groove before August creeps in—remember to rest without guilt, learn with joy, and always, always take care of you."

Links Mentioned:

Atomic Habits

The Anxious Generation

MealBoard App

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

117. Red, White, and Burned Out: Signs You Need More Summer Recharge

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 23:38:00 -0400

In this candid solo episode, I get real about mid-summer counselor burnout. If you’ve been feeling tired, guilty for not “doing more,” or wondering why you’re not excited for back-to-school season—this conversation is your permission slip to hit pause and actually recharge. I'm sharing personal stories, actionable reflection questions, and why summer isn’t a competition for productivity—it’s a chance to reconnect with who you are and why you started this work in the first place.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:

Sneaky signs of burnout you may not recognize
How to know whether your "recharging" is really working
A new lens to view your summer: the 8 dimensions of wellness
How to reflect on what fills your cup outside of school
When to say no, when to lean in, and when to rest
How connecting with other counselors can reignite your passion

💬 Quote to Remember:

“We are making a difference—even if we don’t always see it. Sometimes we’re just planting the seeds.”

👟 Whether you're reorganizing your spice cabinet or wondering if you should go back to school just to “check in” on things… this episode will remind you that rest is a requirement, not a reward.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

116. Podcast Takeover Edition: Cassie Good on The Power of a School Counseling Advisory

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this inspiring guest takeover, Kansas-based counselor Cassie Good shares how starting an Advisory Council changed everything—from how her role was viewed to how she spent her time.

What You’ll Learn:

Why advisory councils aren’t optional—they’re transformational
Real-world examples of using data to advocate for your time and impact
How Cassie reduced non-counseling tasks with support from admin
Ways to create buy-in from teachers, parents, and district leaders
Practical steps to start your own council (yes, even with limited time!)

Cassie’s advice: You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin.

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.

🌞 Inspired? Be sure to check out the 2025 Summer Counselor Conference to keep learning, growing, and connecting with counselors who get it.

💛 Because we’re better together.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

115. That One Student – Ending the Year with Impact

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 05:15:00 -0400

🎙️ Episode Title: That One Student – Ending the Year with Impact

In this powerful episode of Counselor Chat, Carol shares the emotional story of “that one student” — or in her case, an entire family — who made a lasting impact during the school year. From crisis to resilience, you'll hear how four siblings reminded her why school counselors do this work, even when it’s messy, hard, and uncertain.

You'll walk away with:

A reminder of the life-changing power of your presence
An invitation to reflect on your own “one student” story
A renewed sense of hope and connection

💌 Carol encourages you to write about the student who impacted you this year—and maybe even share it with her!

🖇️ Links + Resources:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Visit counselingessentials.org/podcast for more.

📲 Connect with Carol on Instagram or Facebook @counselingessentials

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

114. Conference Confidential: The backstage tour of the Summer Counselor Conference

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 05:15:00 -0400

This week on Counselor Chat, we’re getting personal—and a little behind-the-scenes.

🎧 Episode 114: Conference Confidential – The Backstage Tour of the Summer Counselor Conference

In this episode, I’m sharing how the Summer Counselor Conference came to life—from the spark of an idea to a community of thousands of counselors learning together from the comfort of their homes.

✨ Inside this episode:

The heart behind the conference (and yes, it includes yoga in your PJs!)
Sneak peeks into this year’s lineup: Robin Zorn, Jessica Sinarski, Reagan Norris, Bob Pincus, and more!
Why access lasts until June 2026 (because we know life gets busy)
What past attendees had to say about the impact
How to earn 45 PD hours and up to 3 graduate credits with zero extra work
VIP perks, giveaways, and the early bird deadline you don’t want to miss (hint: June 16!)

🎟️ Register now for the 2025 Summer Counselor Conference:

www.summercounselorconference.com

Whether you’re new to the profession or have years of wisdom, this conference was built to meet you where you are.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

113. Dear Future Me: An End-of-the-Year Letter from Your School Counselor Self

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 05:45:00 -0400

In this heartfelt episode, I'm sharing a mix of laughter, encouragement, and reflection for school counselors wrapping up the year. Drawing from letters written by real counselors, this episode offers wisdom to tuck away for the tough days ahead—and a reminder that your work truly matters.

Highlights:

💌 “Dear Future Me…” letters full of humor, heart, and hard-earned advice
📢 The importance of advocating for your role (and inviting yourself to the meeting)
🧠 What to remember when you're overwhelmed next fall
👀 Why checking work emails at home is a big nope
✨ A challenge to write your own end-of-year letter

Words of Wisdom from the Episode:

“You’ve walked through hard things and you’re still standing. Your value isn’t determined by someone else’s words.” – Michelle F.

“You are the right person for this job—even when the to-do list says otherwise.” – Darcy C.

Challenge of the Week:

Write your own "Dear Future Me" letter. Include a reminder of your growth, the wins worth celebrating, and advice for when things get heavy again. Then, save it somewhere to reopen next fall. 💛

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

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112. Podcast Takeover Edition: Carol Colao on Counseling Grief with Hope

Wed, 28 May 2025 05:15:00 -0400

What happens when grief becomes your unexpected companion—but also your teacher?

In this heartfelt Podcast Takeover, guest host Carol Colao opens up about guiding children through grief in her school counseling role, sharing signs, stories, and a reminder that children grieve differently--and deeply. She’s joined by Julie Riga, a leadership coach and author, who turned her grief into purpose by completing her late father’s memoir and discovering “authentic grieving” in the process.

This episode is a touching blend of personal story and professional wisdom—and a reminder that hope can grow even in the hardest seasons.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

How grief manifests in children vs. adults
Signs of “sad attacks” and how to support students through them
Why grief extends beyond death: divorce, incarceration, and more
What it means to “authentically grieve” and set your own pace
How storytelling and honoring “the firsts” after loss can lead to healing
Why it’s okay to cry, celebrate, and remember—in your own way

💛 Encouragement from this episode:

You don’t need to have all the answers to start healing. Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. There is hope in the hurt—and healing in remembering.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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111. Small Wins, Big Impact: Celebrating the Tiny Victories of Your School Year

Wed, 21 May 2025 05:15:00 -0400

As school counselors, we tend to spotlight the big moments—graduations, awards, and final grades. But what about the small wins? The quiet growth, the subtle progress, and the unseen impact?

In this uplifting episode, I'm sharing why those “little things” might just be the most important part of our work—and how you can start recognizing and celebrating them today.

You'll hear:

Why small wins matter (backed by behavioral science!)
Simple celebration strategies for students, staff, and yourself
How creating a culture of gratitude fuels connection and morale

“Those tiny victories build momentum, boost morale, and create a positive environment for everyone… You are making an impact every single day.”

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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110. The 5 Non-Negotiables Every School Counselor Needs to Thrive

Wed, 14 May 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Surviving school counseling? Sure, it’s doable. But thriving in it? That takes intention. In this episode, Carol shares the 5 non-negotiables that help counselors stay grounded, confident, and impactful—no matter what time of year it is.

Whether you're wrapping up the school year or planning ahead, these five foundational pillars will support your work (and your wellness).

What You’ll Learn:

How building relationships—yes, even the tough ones—is the key to everything
What setting strong boundaries really looks like in a school setting
How to use data to fuel your advocacy and prove your impact
Why learning never stops (and where to find support that actually fits your schedule)
Ways to confidently advocate for yourself and your program

🎓 Bonus Spotlight: The 2025 Summer Counselor Conference

Virtual, on-demand, and designed for real school counselors
40 sessions + 2 keynote speakers
Graduate credit available
Zoom meetups, giveaways, and easy access
Registration opens May 15—grab your spot early!

Resources Mentioned:

www.summercounselorconference.com

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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109. Mental Health Matters: Small Moves, Big Impact for Counselors This May

Wed, 07 May 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Between testing, field trips, and students bouncing off the walls, May can be chaotic. But even during the busiest weeks of the school year, you can make meaningful moves for Mental Health Awareness Month—without adding more to your calendar.

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing quick, creative, and practical ways to promote mental wellness at school without burning yourself out.

What You’ll Learn:

How to use morning announcements to plant positive mental health messages
Ideas for a low-effort Mental Health Spirit Week
Visual strategies like “Take What You Need” walls and student-made posters
Fast and effective class check-ins and coping skill moments
Ways to partner with teachers and engage parents
How to model mental wellness for your school community

💡 Bonus Reminders:

🗓️ First round of Counselor Planners is at the printer—order now for Round 2
⏰ TpT Bonus Day Sale ends at MIDNIGHT—don’t miss it!

🎧 Listen now and let’s make mental health awareness doable this May.

Resources Mentioned:

Blog post: How Post-it Notes Can Change School Climate

Affirmation Posters Set 1

Affirmation Posters Set 2

Positive Posties

Spring Meditation Craft and Activity

Coping Skills Meditation and A-Z Posters

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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108. Promoting Student Self-Discovery

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re exploring one of the most important (and exciting!) aspects of school counseling: promoting self-discovery.

Forget the "find yourself in a forest" narrative — we're talking about real, practical strategies to help students uncover who they are, what they're great at, and how to channel that into meaningful goals.

What You’ll Learn:

Fun and effective ways to help students spot their strengths
Activities to ignite passions and tap into hidden interests
How to turn discovery into direction with goal setting that sticks
Why embracing the "messy middle" of self-exploration matters more than you think
Quick wins like strengths scavenger hunts, compliment tag, perfect day activities, and counselor mini coaching sessions

Favorite Moment:

"Your job isn't to hand students a roadmap — it’s to give them the tools to explore, reflect, and dream big."

Resources Mentioned:

Values Auction

5th Grade Career Lesson

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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107. Rebuilding Relationships with Students You’ve Lost Touch With: How to Reconnect and Re-Engage

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this heartfelt episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into something every school counselor faces: when a student you once saw regularly suddenly fades from view. Whether it's due to schedules, emotions, or avoidance, reconnection is possible—and often starts with something small.

🧠 Here’s what we’ll explore:

Common reasons students stop checking in—and why it’s not about you
How to send a low-pressure “Hey, I missed you” message
Creative ways to re-engage through lunch bunches, hallway greetings, and purposeful invitations
Why micro-moments (like sticky notes or memes) rebuild trust
What to say when a student isn’t ready to reconnect

✨ Pro Tip: Don’t assume silence means they’re not thinking of you. Sometimes students are testing if you really meant it when you said you care.

🎧 Listen now and take one small step toward reconnecting with a student who may still need you more than you know.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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106. The Counseling Game Closet: Easy Group Games for Spring Energy

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re cracking open the (possibly chaotic) game closet to help you survive and thrive this spring with low-prep, high-impact games.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

Why spring is the perfect time for play-based counseling
Go-to games like Feeling Charades, Coping Skills Memory Match, and Compliment Circle
Quick & easy activities for those zero-prep, five-minute-group days (Four Corners, Emotion Detective, Pass the Emoji)
Debriefing questions that deepen student reflection and connection
How to build a portable game kit for on-the-go counseling sessions

🌟 Counselor Tip: Don’t be afraid to end early if the energy gets too wild—sometimes wrapping it up on a good note is the best counseling move of the day.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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105. Spring Cleaning--Counseling Style

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -0400

It’s that time of year again.

The sun is trying to shine, test season is in full swing, and your to-do list just grew its own to-do list. Before the end-of-year whirlwind sweeps you away, it’s time for some spring cleaning—but not just for your desk.

In this episode, we’re talking about:

🧹 How to declutter your calendar by identifying what truly matters
📬 Strategies to clean up your email inbox without losing your mind
🗂 Tips for organizing your Google Drive and files so you can actually find things
🧘 How to create mental breathing room before the end-of-year chaos
✍️ A simple reflection practice to help you leave breadcrumbs for next year

You don’t need a picture-perfect system—you just need one that works for you.

"Even if your files are still a little messy and your calendar has more reschedules than actual sessions... you've got this." 💛

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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104. How to Plan for Small Groups in the Final Months of the School Year

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Feeling like May and June are just a chaotic blur of testing, field trips, and students who’ve forgotten how to sit in chairs? Same. But believe it or not, it’s actually the perfect time to run small groups—and in this episode, I’m sharing exactly why.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

Why spring is secretly the best time for small groups
3 small group themes that make a big impact fast
Quick ideas for activities that keep students engaged (and sane!)
How to keep your groups manageable, meaningful, and even fun
Scheduling tips and tricks that actually work
How to make the most of the time you’ve got (spoiler: short-term groups = big wins!)

Plus, I’ll share why Ritz crackers might just be your group’s MVP.

💡 Whether it’s motivation, friendship skills, or emotional regulation, this episode will help you finish the school year strong—with less chaos and more connection.

📝 Mentioned in this episode:

Card Games:

Coping Skills Card Game

Resolving Conflicts Card Game

Grit and Growth Mindset Card Game

Friendship Skills Card Game

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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103. Mid-Year Check-In: Are You on Track with Your Counseling Goals?

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re doing a mid-year check-in to reflect, reassess, and reframe our approach so we can make the rest of the school year impactful and fulfilling.

What We Cover:

Reflecting on Goals: What were your original goals, and how are they holding up?
Celebrating Your Wins: Why it’s essential to recognize small victories and how to celebrate them.
Addressing What’s Not Working: Practical tips to clean up your calendar, data tracking, and counseling load without the guilt.
Creating an Actionable Game Plan: How to make small, meaningful changes that actually stick.
Mindset Shift: Understanding that adjusting your goals isn’t failure—it’s feedback.

Remember Counseling Friends:

“I am making a difference even when I don't see it. My work matters and I am enough.”

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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102. Self-Harm Awareness Month: How to Support Students

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

March is Self-Harm Awareness Month, and as school counselors, we need to be prepared. In this episode, we cover how to recognize the warning signs, approach students with care, and provide them with real, effective coping strategies.

This is a heavy topic—but you are not alone. By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical steps to confidently support students who self-harm, without feeling overwhelmed.

What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The real reason students self-harm (it’s not for attention)

✔️ How to identify warning signs—even when students try to hide it

✔️ The best way to start the conversation without making them shut down

✔️ Healthy alternatives to self-harm (spoiler: red markers & ice cubes work wonders)

✔️ Why involving parents can be tricky—and how to do it right

✔️ How to create a safety plan that actually helps

✔️ Self-care for you—because this is heavy work

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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101. The Energy You Bring – How to Make Lessons Fun & Engaging

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Want to make your lessons fun and engaging without feeling like a stand-up comedian? The energy you bring into your classroom can make or break student engagement. In this episode, we dive into simple ways to bring enthusiasm, structure, and interaction to your lessons—without adding extra work to your plate.

What You’ll Learn:

✔️ Why your energy sets the tone for engagement

✔️ The easiest way to instantly shift a classroom’s atmosphere

✔️ How movement, tone, and facial expressions keep students engaged

✔️ Simple, no-prep activities to make learning interactive

✔️ Managing your own energy so you don’t feel drained

Resources Mentioned:

Kindergarten Career Lessons Community Helpers and Tools

Grade 1 Career Lesson Community Helpers and Their Skills

Grade 2 Career Lesson Careers and Training Needed

Grade 3 Career Lessons Multiple Intelligences

Grade 4 Career Lessons Careers and Workspaces

Grade 5 Career Lessons Career Interest Inventory and Research

Grade 6 Career Lessons Career Research

The next time you walk into a lesson, be intentional about your energy. Walk in with a smile, bring a little enthusiasm, and make it interactive. The difference? It’s huge!

Until next time, keep bringing the good vibes—you’re making a difference! 💛

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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100. Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Look Back and A Look Ahead

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

🎉 100 episodes! Can you believe it? This milestone is all thanks to YOU—our amazing community of school counselors who tune in, take action, and make a difference every single day. Whether you’ve been listening since episode one or just found Counselor Chat, I’m beyond grateful for your support.

This podcast started as a simple idea—to create a space where school counselors could get practical strategies, feel supported, and be reminded that they’re never alone in this journey. And wow, has it grown! Along the way, we’ve had incredible conversations, deep dives into real challenges, and moments of pure inspiration.

💙 YOU are the reason we’ve made it to 100 episodes. So today, we’re celebrating together!

Inside This Special Episode:

✅ A heartfelt reflection on the journey to 100 episodes

✅ The top 5 most-loved episodes and why they’ve resonated so deeply

✅ A sneak peek into the exciting topics and guests coming your way

Because this is such a big milestone, I want to celebrate you—the amazing listeners who make this podcast possible! To say thank you, I’m doing a special giveaway. One lucky listener will win a $100 Amazon gift card!

Here’s how to enter:

Make sure you’re following this podcast.
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Snap a picture of your review and email it to me at Carol@counselingessentials.org.

That’s it! I’ll pick a winner by March 5th, 2025, and announce it on an upcoming episode.

Some of the episodes you all loved the most include:

🎧 Individual Counseling Like A Pro (Episode 49) – This episode dove into making the most of one-on-one time with students and structuring sessions effectively.

🎧 Finding Grace in Grief: A School Counselor’s Journey (Episode 51) – A deeply moving episode where we talked about grief, loss, and supporting students through tough times.

🎧 What Am I Supposed To Do For National School Counseling Week? (Episode 44) – A fan favorite that broke down how to celebrate and advocate for school counseling in a meaningful way.

🎧 Using Community Circles As SEL Lessons (Episode 47) – A practical and hands-on episode that inspired so many of you to bring community circles into your schools.

🎧 Go Make Some Lollipop Moments: Back To School Motivation (Episode 75) – If you need an instant boost of inspiration, this one’s for you!

What’s Next? Get Ready for Even More!

The best part? We’re just getting started. As we move into the next 100 episodes, expect even more of what you love:

✔️ Solo episodes packed with actionable strategies

✔️ Expert guests bringing fresh insights and game-changing ideas

✔️ Real talk about the challenges we face as school counselors—and how to overcome them

🌟 Upcoming topics include:

🔹 Setting Boundaries as a School Counselor (because yes, you CAN say no!)

🔹 Tier 2 Interventions That Actually Work – No fluff, just real strategies

🔹 The Heart of Difficult Conversations – Navigating tough discussions with confidence

🔹 Creative Ways to Teach SEL Without Another Lesson Plan – Because your plate is already full!

This journey has been incredible, and it’s all because of you. Every day, you show up for your students, your schools, and your communities. You handle the hard conversations, provide the safe spaces, and create the moments of impact that change lives.

And if you ever doubt the difference you’re making—just know this: You are seen. You are valued. You are making a difference.

So here’s to 100 episodes, to you, and to the next chapter of this amazing journey. 💙

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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99. School Counseling Crisis Management 101: Preparing for the Unexpected

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Crisis situations in schools are unpredictable—but your response doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into Crisis Management 101: what to do before, during, and after a crisis to ensure the best possible support for your students, staff, and yourself.

From grief and loss to natural disasters and mental health emergencies, we’ll cover the key steps to handling crises with confidence.

🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The different types of school crises and how to navigate them

✅ The importance of having a crisis response plan before you need it

✅ How to create a strong crisis response team and clearly define roles

✅ Why communication is key—and how to avoid misinformation spreading

✅ How to take care of yourself as a crisis responder

Crisis will happen—but with the right preparation, you can handle it with confidence.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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98. Making Small Changes for Big Impact in Your Counseling Program

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 05:15:00 -0400

What if making your counseling program more effective didn’t require a total overhaul? In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re talking about small, strategic changes that can create major improvements—without adding more to your plate.

From simple check-in boards to five-minute classroom visits, these easy tweaks will help you better connect with students, streamline your work, and make a lasting impact.

🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How a check-in board can give you real-time insight into student emotions

✅ The magic of five-minute classroom visits (and how they build trust)

✅ Why revamping your email signature can make you more accessible

✅ The importance of a “feel-good file” for tough days

✅ How one positive phone call home can strengthen school-home relationships

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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97. When Self-Care Becomes a Chore: Redefining Wellness

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Self-care has been marketed to us as bubble baths, spa days, and green juices—but let’s be real, school counselors don’t always have that kind of time. In this episode, we’re breaking down what self-care really looks like when you’re juggling a full caseload, endless emails, and back-to-back student crises.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The truth about self-care that no one talks about
Why saying no is just as important as saying yes
How to build micro moments of care into your daily routine
The underestimated power of a snack drawer and hydration
How to set emotional boundaries to protect your energy
A simple daily practice to find joy in the ordinary

Let’s embrace real self-care—because you can’t pour from an empty cup. 💛

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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96. Kickstart Your Year With a Vision Board for Your Program

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Happy National School Counseling Week! While we’ve already talked about ways to celebrate (check out Episode 94 if you missed it), today we’re taking it one step further—by creating a vision board for your school counseling program.

A vision board isn’t just a fun craft project; it’s a powerful tool for goal setting, advocacy, and intentionality in your counseling program. Whether you’re focusing on student engagement, SEL initiatives, or data-driven success, having a visual roadmap can help keep you motivated and on track throughout the year.

📌 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Why vision boards actually work (hint: neuroscience backs it up!)
How to create a vision board that aligns with your counseling goals
What to include—mission statements, key goals, student-centered themes, and data tracking
The difference between physical vs. digital vision boards (and which one might be best for you)
How to turn your vision board into action so it’s not just decoration

✨ Ready to Get Started?

Grab some markers, magazines, or your favorite digital tool and start crafting your counseling vision! Don’t forget to share your vision board with me—I’d love to see what you create! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook @CounselingEssentials and let’s celebrate your amazing work together.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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95. Mastering the Art of Small Talk in Counseling Sessions

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Welcome back to Counselor Chat! In this episode, we’re diving into the often-overlooked but incredibly powerful tool of small talk. Whether you’re working with a shy first-grader or a skeptical high schooler, small talk is more than just casual chitchat—it’s a bridge to building trust, setting the tone, and paving the way for meaningful conversations.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Episode Highlights:

🌟 Why small talk matters: Discover how these seemingly trivial conversations create a sense of safety and connection, especially for hesitant students.
🎯 Balancing small talk with therapeutic goals: Learn three practical tips to keep small talk intentional without letting it take over your session.
🛠️ Tips and tricks: Fun icebreakers and creative prompts to break the ice, like “Would you rather eat tacos forever or only pizza forever?”
📝 Real-life example: How inviting first-graders to lunch helped me assess their social skills and build rapport.
🤝 Using small talk to gain insight: How to listen for clues about a student’s hobbies, struggles, and personality.

Links and Resources:

Chit Chat Conversation Starters

Roll and Respond Icebreakers

Icebreakers for Everyone

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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94. National School Counseling Week: Outside-the-Box Ideas

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:15:00 -0400

National School Counseling Week is just around the corner, and this episode of Counselor Chat is all about helping you make it memorable! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, I'm sharing creative ideas, advocacy tips, and time-saving strategies to celebrate your work, engage your school community, and amplify your impact.

From fun activities like counselor coffee chats and student shout-out walls to leveraging social media with themed posts and hashtags, there’s something for every school counselor looking to shine.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why National School Counseling Week is vital for advocacy and education.
Creative celebration ideas like scavenger hunts, mindfulness moments, and career day collaborations.
Simple ways to engage your school community and spread awareness.
Social media strategies to maximize your reach and visibility.
Tips for incorporating pre-made resources to save time and reduce stress.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

ASCA NSCW Materials

Get the free posters I talked about here.

NSCW Activities For Kids

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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93. New Year, New Habits: Time Management Tips for School Counselors

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 05:15:00 -0400

New Year, new resolutions to get organized! In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m tackling one of the biggest challenges we face as school counselors — time management. Between unexpected crises, back-to-back meetings, and never-ending to-do lists, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. But guess what? Time management isn’t about squeezing more into your schedule — it’s about focusing on what truly matters.

I’ll share practical tips to help you:

✅ Prioritize your most important tasks

✅ Batch your work to save time

✅ Set boundaries to protect your schedule

✅ Use tools and strategies to make your life easier

I’m also giving a heartfelt shoutout to my co-counselor Ashley, who recently transitioned to a new role. While I’m holding down the fort solo for now, these time-saving strategies are helping me stay sane — and they can help you too!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ Why time management feels so hard for school counselors

✔️ The truth about multitasking (spoiler: it’s not helping!)

✔️ How to use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize your tasks

✔️ Tips for batching, setting boundaries, and building lasting habits

✔️ Tools and strategies to simplify your workflow

Resources Mentioned

Atomic Habits

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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92. Breaking Up with Overcommitment: Learning to Say No in the New Year

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:15:00 -0400

Are you constantly saying "yes" to everything and feeling overwhelmed? In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re tackling a topic that hits home for many school counselors: overcommitment. As natural helpers, we often feel the urge to take on more, but saying yes to everything can quickly lead to burnout.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🎯 Why overcommitment is so common among school counselors

🎯 The real reason saying no feels uncomfortable — and how to move past it

🎯 How to reframe your no as a yes to what matters most

🎯 Three practical strategies to help you say no with confidence and kindness

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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🎯 Wisdom from Brené Brown and Steve Jobs on boundaries and focus

Mentioned in this episode:

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91. Counseling’s Secret Sauce: The Art of Mentoring New School Counseling Professionals

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Today, we’re diving deep into the power of mentorship in school counseling. Whether you’re a seasoned professional ready to share your expertise or a newbie looking for guidance, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Emotional Phases of Counseling: From the excitement of starting out to the rejuvenation and reflection phases, learn how mentorship can help navigate the ups and downs of this career.
7 Steps to Mentorship Success: Practical tips to foster trust, provide resources, celebrate milestones, and empower growth for both mentors and mentees.
Pro Tips from Seasoned Mentors: Hear valuable advice from experienced counselors who’ve supported new professionals in the field.
Using ASCA Standards: Discover how these guidelines can elevate mentorship and strengthen school counseling programs.

Key Takeaways:

Mentorship isn’t just about giving advice—it’s about listening, validating, and helping others find their way.
Supporting new counselors can make a profound difference, both in their confidence and in the impact they make on students.
Experienced counselors: Take the leap to guide someone new.
New counselors: Don’t be afraid to ask for help—you’re not alone in this journey!

Mentorship is more than guidance—it’s about shaping future leaders and ensuring the longevity of our profession. Whether you’re a mentor or a mentee, your role matters. Together, we can make a difference!

www.summercounselorconference.com

ASCA School Counselor Competencies

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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90. Is That Trash Actually Treasure? A Holiday Reminder For School Counselors

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:30:00 -0400

Welcome to a special holiday episode of Counselor Chat Podcast!

As we head into the festive season, it’s important to remember that the holidays aren’t joyful for everyone.

In this episode, we’re exploring how to foster gratitude, recognize the value of every gift, and support our students and colleagues during this emotionally charged time of year.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

A Meaningful Activity to Share: Discover an engaging group exercise using everyday items to teach the power of perspective and gratitude.
The Power of the Giver’s Eyes: Hear a personal story from me that sheds light on why the intention behind a gift matters more than the gift itself.
Holiday Stress Awareness: Understand how the holidays can affect students and staff differently and how to provide support during this time.
Practical Takeaways: Ideas for implementing gratitude-focused activities in your school or team meetings.

Key Takeaways:

Value is in the eye of the giver—take a moment to appreciate the intention behind every gesture, big or small.
The holiday season is a time to foster connection, gratitude, and reflection, even in the midst of stress.
Small, thoughtful activities can spark meaningful discussions and help your team or students approach the season with empathy and perspective.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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89. School Counseling VS School Social Work: Working together as a collaborative unit with Cayce Batts

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m joined by Dr. Cayce Batts, Social Work Educator and former K-12 School Social Worker in Kentucky, to explore the power of collaboration between school counselors and social workers. If you’ve ever wondered how these roles can work together seamlessly to better serve students, this conversation is for you!

Cayce and I dive into the unique strengths and focus areas of each profession, the importance of setting boundaries while remaining flexible, and how building strong partnerships can lead to a bigger impact. Whether you’re a school counselor or social worker—or just curious about how to strengthen teamwork in your school—you’ll walk away with actionable tips to enhance collaboration and improve outcomes for students.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How school counselors and social workers complement each other’s roles.
The differences between the clinical lens of a social worker and the academic focus of a school counselor.
Ways to identify your strengths and share responsibilities effectively.
Why communication and regular meetings are key to successful teamwork.
Tips for fostering partnerships, setting boundaries, and celebrating wins.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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88. A Day In The School Counselor Life with Sarah Altman

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat Podcast, I sit down with Sarah Altman, a seasoned elementary school counselor with 20 years of experience at Sycamore Elementary in Indiana. Sarah gives us an inspiring and detailed look at what it’s like to manage the daily ups and downs of school counseling while building meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families.

From her creative lesson plans to balancing unexpected challenges, Sarah shares practical strategies, tips, and wisdom that every school counselor—no matter their experience level—can learn from.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Behind the Scenes of Elementary School Counseling
Sarah takes us through a "typical" day in her role, showing how she balances proactive planning with the unexpected.
Creative Lesson Ideas for K-4 Students
Sarah’s go-to lessons include fun, hands-on activities with “little spot” books, growth mindset escape rooms, and even using a colander to teach social filters!
The Value of Longevity
Learn how staying at the same school for 20 years has helped Sarah connect deeply with her school community.
Proactive Programs That Work
Discover Sarah’s unique peer mentoring program and how she integrates social and academic skills into everyday interactions.
Career Readiness for Elementary Students
Sarah’s innovative approach to career development includes resume writing, mock interviews, and job exploration tailored for fourth graders.
Balancing Duties and Grace
From morning drop-off to lunch duty, Sarah explains how counselors can use these moments to connect with students and identify areas of need.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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87. A Conversation with Julia Cook: The Heart of School Counseling, Books, and Teaching Great People Skills

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:45:00 -0400

Welcome back to another episode of Counselor Chat! Today, I’m thrilled to share a conversation with the one and only Julia Cook. Julia is a former counselor and celebrated author whose books like My Mouth Is a Volcano and Tattle Tongue are staples on school counseling shelves across the nation. In this episode, Julia shares her journey from writing her first book to creating a collection that’s been translated into nine languages and used in schools worldwide.

We explore:

Julia’s creative process and her shift from SEL to teaching "Great People Skills (GPS)."
How her books evolve with student needs, ensuring inclusivity and relevance.
Practical, hands-on strategies for engaging students and teaching essential life skills.
The launch of Julia’s new platform, Cookie Bites, offering videos, activities, and resources for counselors and educators.
Julia’s new book, I Am Vape, addressing vaping prevention for younger students.

This episode is packed with actionable tips, inspiration, and a giveaway you won’t want to miss!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Evolution of Julia’s Books: How feedback from counselors helps her refine her stories to fit the needs of today’s students.
Concrete Teaching Strategies: Learn how visuals and metaphors, like root beer floats and racetracks, help kids grasp challenging concepts like test anxiety and self-regulation.
The Power of Adaptation: Why it’s essential for educators and resources to grow alongside the ever-changing needs of students.
Practical Tools with Cookie Bites: Discover a treasure trove of resources, from grab-and-go activities to videos, designed to make your counseling life easier.

Giveaway Details:

Want to win a signed copy of Julia’s new book I Am Vape? Here’s how:

Forward this episode to five colleagues and CC Carol (carol@counselingessentials.org).
The first five listeners to send their emails will win!

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Cookie Bites by Julia Cook: Cookie Bites Website
Counseling Essentials Resources: Counseling Essentials
Julia’s New Book, I Am Vape: Learn more about vaping prevention for young students.
School Visits and Workshops with Julia Cook: Email Julia at julia@juliacookonline.com.

Stay Connected:

Follow Carol on Instagram and Facebook: @CounselingEssentials
Visit the Counselor Chat podcast page: Counseling Essentials Podcast

Final Thoughts:

Julia reminds us of the importance of laughter, adaptability, and connection in school counseling. Whether it’s a poopy day or a cookie day, stay focused on the impact you make in students’ lives. You’re doing amazing work, counselor rock stars!

Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Until next time, keep spreading joy and making a difference!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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86. School Counselor Duo Allie and Elizabeth Share Their Day

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm thrilled to be joined by two inspiring elementary school counselors, Allie and Elizabeth from North Carolina. These two bring such incredible passion to their work, and today they’re giving us an inside look into the joys, challenges, and creative solutions they use to support their students.

We dive into what a “typical” day (if there even is one!) looks like for them, and they share everything from classroom lessons on empathy to creative attendance initiatives that keep students excited about coming to school. Their teamwork, problem-solving, and dedication to creating a welcoming environment are truly inspiring.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this episode:

Life as a School Counselor: Allie and Elizabeth discuss the highs, the lows, and the endless surprises in their day-to-day.
Favorite Lessons & Activities: Discover their go-to activities like the toothpaste empathy lesson and teamwork-building with balloon activities.
Small Group Success: Hear about the impact of small groups in building friendship skills, social competencies, and academic support.
Creative Attendance Initiatives: Allie and Elizabeth reveal their unique approach to tackling chronic absenteeism with glow parties and personalized attendance goals.
The Importance of Teamwork: Learn how having a supportive team makes all the difference and how they balance workloads to avoid burnout.
Advice for New Counselors: Allie and Elizabeth share valuable insights on asking questions, taking risks, and working closely with admin to create lasting change.

If you’re looking for fresh ideas or just need a little inspiration to keep going, this episode is for you. Plus, it’s a reminder of why we all got into this field: to make a positive difference, one student at a time.

After you listen, I’d love to hear your thoughts or stories of impact!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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85. The Power of One: How You’re Making a Difference as a School Counselor

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this heartfelt episode of Counselor Chat, I'm diving deep into one of the core challenges many school counselors face: feeling like the effort you’re putting in doesn’t always lead to visible results. Inspired by a powerful anonymous post from a fellow counselor,

Through real-life stories and insights, I share how just being present for a student, offering a kind word, or modeling integrity can have a lasting impact. This episode is all about recognizing and valuing the subtle yet profound influence you have every day in the lives of your students and colleagues.

Episode Highlights:

Feeling Overwhelmed or Unnoticed?
How to address those moments when it feels like your work isn’t making a difference.
Introducing "The Power of One"
Why focusing on small, meaningful actions can be transformative in a school setting.
Real-Life Stories of Lasting Impact
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
How even a single positive interaction can spark a chain of compassion and connection within the school community.
Mindset Shift for Long-Term Impact
Simple shifts to help you remember that you’re making a difference, even if you don’t see it right away.

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

84. Creative Ways To Use Your Leftover Halloween Candy As A School Counselor

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this special Halloween-themed episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into how we can use our leftover Halloween candy in our school counseling program!

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Candy Introductions – Use M&Ms or Skittles as a fun icebreaker. Each color represents a different question for students to answer, encouraging them to share something about themselves.
Candy Tower Challenge – Build towers with mini marshmallows and toothpicks. Great for discussing teamwork, growth mindset, and creative problem-solving skills.
Candy Bar Connection – Match students with candy bars like Snickers and Twix that represent different personality traits, helping them explore their strengths and similarities with others.
Guess the Candy Flavor – Blindfolded students rely on their team to describe candy flavors without saying the names, building trust and honing communication skills.
Candy Trivia Relay – Set up a trivia relay for some friendly competition! Students race to answer questions on topics you’re covering and win candy prizes for correct answers.
Yes or No Candy Game – Encourage kids to converse and win candy by getting their partners to say “yes” in conversation, improving social skills and interaction.
Candy Sort Challenge – A sorting game with candy corn and M&Ms using only straws. This activity promotes teamwork, planning, and focus.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Get ready for actionable, easy-to-implement ideas that make good use of Halloween leftovers and add a playful touch to your counseling sessions. Whether it’s using candy to spark introductions, teamwork, or just a bit of fun competition, these activities are sure to keep students engaged and learning.

Have your own ideas of how to use your extra Halloween candies that you want to share? I’d love to hear them!

Join our groups:

High School Counselor Connection

Caught In The Middle School Counselors

Elementary School Counselor Exchange

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

83. From Crisis To Calm: Understanding the Law of Diminishing Returns in School Counseling

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into an economic concept that might not seem like it applies to school counseling—but trust me, it does!

We’re talking about the Law of Diminishing Returns and how it affects your time, energy, and impact as a school counselor.

Ever feel like the more you give, the less you’re able to accomplish? That’s because constantly responding to crises can lead to burnout and prevent you from making the systemic changes that truly benefit all students.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to recognize when you’re stuck in the “crisis trap” and offer actionable steps to break free.

Key Takeaways:

The Law of Diminishing Returns: What it is and why it matters in school counseling.
The Crisis Trap: How focusing solely on crises can prevent long-term growth in your counseling program.
Prioritizing Prevention: Why classroom lessons, small groups, and empowering teachers can help reduce the number of crises you face.
Using Data to Advocate for Change: How to track your time and outcomes to show administrators why shifting focus to prevention can benefit the entire school.
Collaborating with Teachers: Tips on building stronger relationships with teachers so they can handle smaller crises before they escalate to your office.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going! Do you feel stuck in crisis mode? Have a strategy that’s worked for you? I’d love to hear about it! Send me a message, and let’s chat about how you can focus on what really matters—making a lasting impact on all your students.

Resources Mentioned:

Time Tracker

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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Mentioned in this episode:

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82. School Counselor Scaries

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this special Halloween-themed episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into the “school counselor scaries”—those fears and worries that often haunt us in our role as school counselors. From serious concerns like student safety and mental health to the lighter worries like navigating school politics or surviving Monday mornings, we’re covering it all!

Key Takeaways:

Active Shooter Drills: A fear mentioned by many counselors, but remember, preparation is key to managing the anxiety and ensuring student safety.
Student Mental Health Concerns: Missing a red flag from a student can weigh heavily, but you’re trained, supported, and part of a team. Trust your instincts!
Imposter Syndrome: That creeping feeling of self-doubt affects us all, but the truth is, if you care enough to worry, you’re doing better than you think.
Graduation Anxiety: Whether it’s missed credits or the fear of a student not graduating, systems and accountability can help ease this fear. Remember, it’s a team effort.
Toxic Work Environments & Unsupportive Admins: These are real-life workplace spooks, but setting boundaries and finding your “marigolds” (supportive colleagues) can help keep the fear at bay.
School Politics & Monday Mornings: Navigating these feels like a haunted house, but with humor and a strong support system, you can survive the twists and turns.

Have your own “school counselor scaries” you want to share? I’d love to hear them!

Links Mentioned:

High School Counselor Connection

Caught In The Middle School Counselors

Elementary School Counselor Exchange

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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81. How To Navigating Difficult Conversations With Parents and Students As A School Counselor

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the most challenging aspects of being a school counselor: navigating difficult conversations with parents.

From discussing mental health concerns to addressing student safety, these conversations can be emotional, unpredictable, and downright tough.

But with the right approach, you can turn even the most uncomfortable moments into opportunities for meaningful connection and positive change.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to create a safe and supportive environment for these sensitive discussions.
The power of empathy and active listening when talking with parents and students.
Why asking open-ended questions can encourage deeper, more honest communication.
Age-appropriate language to use when addressing mental health topics with students.
The “sandwich approach” to frame difficult conversations with positive feedback.
What to do when parents react defensively or refuse to take action.
How to protect your own well-being and manage emotional boundaries after tough days.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

80. Creating an Anti-Bullying Culture in Your School

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Welcome to another episode of Counselor Chat! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s crucial for every school: fostering an anti-bullying culture. While October is National Bullying Prevention Month, building a supportive, bully-free environment is something we should be doing year-round. In this episode, we explore practical strategies and activities to help you create a culture of kindness and respect at your school.

Key Takeaways:

Proactive and Holistic Approach: Learn why building an anti-bullying culture requires a school-wide commitment from administrators, teachers, parents, and students.
Clear Policies and Procedures: We discuss how transparent and consistent policies help manage and resolve bullying incidents effectively.
School-Wide Activities for Awareness: Discover impactful activities like kindness walks, Unity Day, and anti-bullying pledges that promote a supportive environment.
Classroom Integration: Tips on integrating anti-bullying messages into your SEL curriculum through role-play scenarios, class meetings, and literature connections.
Tier Two Interventions: Explore ideas for small group interventions, like “secret kindness agents” and friendship groups, to support students needing extra help with social skills.
Community Partnerships: Learn how to engage parents and the local community in your anti-bullying efforts for additional support and awareness.

Links Mentioned:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

79. Permission to Prioritize: Balancing Awareness Months, SEL Topics, and School Needs

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 02:21:00 -0400

In today’s episode, I’m diving into something that I know so many of us struggle with—how to fit everything into our school counseling program. With all the different awareness months, SEL lessons, and building needs, it can feel like we’re being pulled in a million different directions. And let's be honest, sometimes it just feels like too much.

Key Takeaways:

It’s okay to not cover everything: You don’t need to feel pressured to address every awareness month. Focus on what’s most relevant to your school community.
Prioritize what matters most: Identify your building’s needs and let that guide your focus—whether it’s SEL lessons, attendance goals, or conflict resolution.
Get creative with incorporating awareness topics: Bulletin boards, morning announcements, and collaborating with other staff can help weave these themes into your program without overwhelming you.
Collaborate with others: You don’t have to do it all alone! Engage your principal, teachers, and other staff to help carry out school-wide initiatives.
Set realistic goals: Use your calendar to map out non-negotiables and figure out where you have space to introduce additional topics or activities.

I’d love to hear how you’re prioritizing your program! If you have questions or want to share your strategies, feel free to reach out. Don’t forget—you’re making a difference, one student at a time.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

78. Ideas for Suicide Prevention Month for School Counselors

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most important topics we face as school counselors—suicide prevention. As someone who has experienced the heartbreaking reality of losing students to suicide, this topic is very personal for me. But it’s also a call to action for all of us.

Here’s what you can expect from today’s episode:

I share my own experiences as a school counselor and how suicide has impacted the schools I’ve worked in.
We’ll talk about how September is Suicide Prevention Month and why it’s the perfect time to raise awareness with your students.
I walk you through simple, effective strategies like classroom presentations, partnering with teachers, and creating safe spaces for students to talk about mental health.
You’ll hear about real ways to make a difference with events like mental health fairs, anonymous drop boxes, and even role-playing scenarios to teach kids how to support their peers.
Plus, I’m sharing a freebie! Download your 988 posters to hang up in your schools to help promote the suicide prevention hotline in a student-friendly way.

Grades 6-7 Suicide Prevention Lesson

Grades 8+ Suicide Prevention Lesson

Free 988 School Posters

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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77. The Leadership Compass: The Perfect Activity for your next faculty meeting

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 20:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into a fun and insightful activity that can be a game-changer for your next faculty meeting or even for use with students—The Leadership Compass.

This activity helps individuals identify their leadership style based on four compass directions: North, South, East, and West. Whether you’re a “take charge” North, a “big picture” East, a “detail-oriented” West, or a “relationship-building” South, this exercise fosters a deeper understanding of how each style contributes to effective teamwork.

You’ll learn how to use this tool to boost collaboration, appreciate the diversity of leadership approaches, and build stronger connections with your colleagues.

Key Takeaways:

The Fable of the Blind Men and the Elephant: A powerful story to illustrate the importance of understanding different perspectives.
Leadership Compass Breakdown:
North: Action-oriented, loves to get things done.
East: Big picture thinkers who work with the end in mind.
West: Detail-focused and question everything to ensure clarity.
South: Relationship-focused and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.
How to Use the Leadership Compass: Tips for facilitating the activity with faculty and students, including creating a visual compass in your room.
The Power of Diverse Leadership Styles: Why you need all four directions on your team for true collaboration and success.

Links Mentioned:

The Leadership Compass Activity

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

76. the Top 10 Things To Do To Set Your School Counseling Program Up For Success

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, I’m sharing my top ten strategies for school counselors to start the school year successfully. Whether you’re returning to a familiar school or stepping into a new one, these tips will help you build strong relationships, organize your counseling program, and set up a solid foundation for the year.

Episode Highlights:

Build Relationships: Start the year by connecting with both returning and new staff and students. Building strong relationships is the key to effective counseling and creating a supportive school environment.
Review and Update Your Counseling Program: Take time to review your counseling program to ensure it meets current student needs and aligns with school goals. This includes setting measurable goals, such as improving attendance.
Set Up Your Office: Make your office a welcoming and organized space where students feel comfortable. Clear out old materials, refresh your resources, and create an environment that’s inviting but not overwhelming.
Create an Organized Counseling Schedule: Develop a flexible yet structured schedule for your counseling sessions, including classroom lessons, small groups, and individual sessions. Remember to leave some white space for unexpected issues that may arise.
Communicate Your Role: It’s crucial to educate staff, students, and parents about your role as a school counselor. Use brochures and open house events to explain what services you offer and how to access them.
Plan Your SEL Curriculum: Outline your SEL topics for each month, aligning them with school-wide events and goals, like bullying prevention week, to provide consistent and relevant support to students.
Participate in Professional Development: Stay on top of the latest counseling techniques and practices by engaging in ongoing professional development. This helps you keep up with the evolving needs of your students.

Links Mentioned:

Counseling Brochures Bundle

Get a Year of Perks for 25% off!

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

75: Go Make Some Lolipop Moments: Back To School Series

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 05:45:00 -0400

As school counselors, we often rely on data to prove our effectiveness.

But here's the reality: not everything we do can be measured. Some of the most impactful moments we create with students are those that can't be quantified, yet they leave a lasting impression.

In this episode, we dive into:

The Importance of Counselor Habits: Discover why the small, daily actions we take can have a big impact on our students and our school community.
Creating Lollipop Moments: Learn about the profound, unmeasurable effects we have through simple acts of kindness and being present for our students.
And more...

If you haven’t tuned in to the earlier episodes in our back-to-school series, I highly encourage you to start from the beginning. Each episode builds on the last, offering insights and tips that are especially valuable as we prepare for a new school year.

Let’s band together to make this school year one filled with meaningful connections and unforgettable moments.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this episode!

Links Mentioned:

Lolipop Moments YouTube Video

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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74. Leadership Tips from The Dancing Guy: Back To School Series

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we explore leadership through the lens of the "Leadership from a Dancing Guy" video. This simple yet powerful video can be a tool for school counselors to ignite movements within their school communities. By embracing the role of a leader, even when it feels like dancing alone, school counselors can inspire students, teachers, and parents to create a positive, inclusive environment.

Key Takeaways:

Leadership from a Lone Nut: The "Leadership from a Dancing Guy" video illustrates how one person's actions can inspire a movement.
Creating Momentum: As school counselors, it's essential to be that first dancer, leading by example and encouraging others to join in.
Inspiring Positive Change: Your consistent and courageous actions as a counselor can have a lasting impact on your school community.

Call to Action:

Reflect on new ideas or initiatives you want to introduce this school year.
Think about how you can be the first dancer in your school community, inspiring others to take part in creating positive change.

Links Mentioned:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

73: Tales From A Train Station: Back To School Series For School Counselors

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 11:45:00 -0400

In this second episode of our Back to School series, I’m diving into a topic that’s incredibly important for us as school counselors—how to make sure the vital work we do doesn’t go unnoticed.

Too often, despite the significant impact we have, our efforts can go unseen by those around us.

In this episode, I emphasize the importance of:

Advocating for Our Role: Ensuring that the value of our work is communicated so it doesn’t get overlooked.
Sharing Successes: Highlighting the progress of our students with colleagues and administrators to build awareness and appreciation for the counseling role.
Collaboration is Key: Being seen as integral members of the school team by actively participating in and contributing to the broader educational environment.
Impactful Interventions: Recognizing the power of empathy and understanding in counseling.
Building a Supportive Environment: Advocating for ourselves to help create a school culture where our contributions are respected and supported.

Join me as we explore how to ensure our work is visible, valued, and celebrated as we head into what I hope will be our best school year yet!

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

72. The Power of Habits: Back To School Series For School Counselors

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:30:00 -0400

Episode Summary:

This episode kicks off a special series dedicated to sharing valuable lessons and advice to help school counselors have their best year ever. Drawing inspiration from James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, Carol discusses the profound impact of habits on personal identity and professional effectiveness. She shares practical strategies for habit formation, such as habit stacking and the two-minute rule, and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in developing habits that support wellness and work-life balance.

Key Points:

Introduction to the Atomic Habits book by James Clear.
The concept of habits reflecting identity.
Practical examples of habit formation in personal and professional life.
Strategies like habit stacking and the two-minute rule.
Importance of self-awareness in habit development.

Actionable Tips:

Identify and reflect on your current habits.
Use habit stacking to create new routines.
Implement the two-minute rule to gradually build new habits.
Foster habits that support your wellness and work-life balance.

Resources Mentioned:

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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71. Using Data In Our School Counseling Program

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:30:00 -0400

Key Points Covered:

The Role of Data in School Counseling:

Data as a tool for informed decision-making.
The significance of proactive interventions in student support.

Types of Data School Counselors Can Collect:

Academic performance data (grades, test scores, attendance).
Behavioral data (disciplinary incidents, attendance patterns, social-emotional skills).
Surveys and assessments (career interests, mental health, school climate).

Using Data to Create Responsive Programs:

Importance of analyzing data to identify trends and underlying issues.
Communicating Data Findings to Stakeholders

Strategies for sharing data effectively:

Data dashboards.
Presentations.
Written reports.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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70. Ten Ways to Use an Ordinary Piece of Paper in School Counseling

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Today's episode we talk about 10 creative ways to use a plain piece of paper as a powerful school counseling tool

Creative Paper Activities:

1. Mind Mapping:

- Visual representation of thoughts and feelings

- Great for brainstorming and organizing ideas

2. Goal Setting:

- Fold paper into sections for short-term and long-term goals

- Create a roadmap to visualize progress

3. Art Therapy:

- Encourage self-expression and emotional articulation

- Activities like "I am" statements with watercolors

4. Scribble Drawing:

- Eyes-closed scribbling turned into a masterpiece

- Promotes creativity and finding beauty in the unexpected

5. What If Scenarios:

- List and analyze "what if" thoughts

- Differentiate realistic concerns from exaggerated fears

6. Journaling Prompts:

- Use prompts or quotes for reflection and emotional processing

- Option to draw responses

7. Collage Creation:

- Reflect interests, values, and aspirations with cut-out images

- Enhances self-awareness and pride

8. Origami:

- Therapeutic activity promoting mindfulness and relaxation

- Simple projects like paper boats and cootie catchers

9. Letter Writing:

- Write letters to themselves to express thoughts and hopes

- Revisit letters to track personal growth

10. Timelines:

- Chart significant life events or future goals

- Explore identity and experiences

Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor Chat

Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy counseling!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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69. Using Mind Mapping In Your School Counseling Program

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:19:00 -0400

Join me today as we talk all about how to use mind mapping as a school counselor to enhance your school counseling program.

Mind Mapping is a visual technique to organize thoughts, information, and ideas. The benefits of using mind mapping is that it enhances creativity, helps with critical thinking, and eases problem-solving skills.

Steps to Create a Mind Map:

1. Start with a blank paper or whiteboard

2. Place the central thought in the middle

3. Branch out with related ideas and subtopics

4. Avoid judging ideas initially, just brainstorm freely

5. Link and structure thoughts to create a cohesive map

Benefits for School Counseling:

Program Development: Outline goals, strategies, and evaluation methods
Example: Planning a career fair using mind mapping to brainstorm contacts, logistics, and activities
Student Support: Identify needs and design targeted interventions
Categorize support services: academic assistance, mental health resources, career guidance

Effective Mind Mapping Tips:

Begin with a clear central theme or objective
Use keywords or images for ideas
Keep it simple and concise
Embrace creativity and unconventional connections
Keep and revisit the mind map for ongoing revisions

Contact Information:

Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor Chat
Email me at Carol@CounselingEssentials.org

Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy mind mapping!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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68. What You Need To Know For The ASCA Conference With Brandy Thompson

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Tips for Attending the ASCA Conference & Exciting Updates!

Join Brandy Thompson as she takes over the Counselor Chat podcast for this episode! Brandy shares valuable tips for making the most of your ASCA conference experience. Get ready for essential packing advice, networking strategies, and must-see sessions.

**Key Points:**

ASCA Conference Tips:

- Wear comfortable shoes and pack light.

- Bring a sweater for cold conference rooms.

- Download the conference app for updates and schedules.

- Don’t miss the exhibit hall for networking and discovering new resources.

- Participate in social events and mixers to meet fellow counselors.

- Utilize social media and follow the hashtag #ASCA24 for real-time updates.

Exploring Kansas City:

- Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National WWI Museum, Kansas City Zoo, and more.

- Enjoy local BBQ at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Arthur Bryant’s.

Booth 506: Visit Carol and Brandi at the exhibit hall for the Perks Counseling Content Club. Get exclusive swag and learn about their comprehensive counseling resources.

Links and Resources:

- 2024 Summer Counselor Conference Registration

Follow Brandy at:

The Counseling Teacher

The Counseling Teacher Brandy on TpT

Perks Content Club

Subscribe & Review:

- Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others find the show!

Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, enjoy your ASCA conference and happy conferencing!

---

Feel free to make adjustments to fit your style and specific needs!

Resources Mentioned:

Summer Counselor Conference

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

67. Effective Strategies for Advisories and SEL with Leslie Cuprill

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode:

I am thrilled to have my friend Leslie from Informed Decisions join us. Leslie is a fantastic social worker based in Brooklyn, New York, with a wealth of experience working with diverse groups, including court-involved youth, LGBTQ+ individuals, teen mothers, special needs populations, and fellow educators.

Leslie shares her invaluable insights on advisories and SEL (Social Emotional Learning) programs, providing practical advice and real-world examples to help school counselors effectively engage their students and create impactful programs.

Key Highlights:

Leslie’s Background: Get to know Leslie and her extensive experience working with various populations and settings.
Starting from Scratch: Leslie offers actionable tips for counselors who are new to advisories and SEL programs or need to start from scratch.
Importance of Space and Resources: Learn how understanding your space and available resources can significantly impact the success of your programs.
Using Existing Resources: Discover the value of connecting with existing programs and curriculums to avoid reinventing the wheel and save time.
Collecting and Using Data: Leslie emphasizes the importance of data collection in demonstrating the impact of your programs to administration and stakeholders.
Favorite Groups and Programs: Leslie shares her favorite types of groups and programs to run, and why advisory programs hold a special place in her heart.
Practical Tips: From over-planning to the magic of lamination, Leslie and I share our top tips for staying organized and prepared.

Special Mention: Leslie will also be one of our esteemed presenters at the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference!

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from her extensive experience and practical advice.

Connect with Leslie:

Links Leslie mentioned:

Youth to Youth- This is the program that models alternatives to using drugs and/or alcohol
Social Emotional Learning and Advisory Survey -This resources allows students to provide their input. Which helps you form connections and see what topics they are interested in discussing. The resource includes both a handout and digital survey
10 simple Tips for Forming Connections in an Advisory or SEL Class - Getting student buy-in
9 easy ways of getting principal buy-in for anadvisory and sel program

Resources Mentioned:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

66. Summer Routines for School Counselors

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm diving into the importance of establishing a balanced summer routine for school counselors.

I should forewarn you—this episode might stir some debate about summer routines for school counselors, but it’s important to talk about.

Key Takeaways:

Rest and Relaxation:

Importance of taking time to rest and rejuvenate
Enjoying quality moments with family and friends

Reflect and Plan:

Reflecting on the past school year
Setting goals for the upcoming school year

Professional Development:

Engaging in workshops and online courses
Highlights of the Summer Counselor Conference

Organization:

Tips for decluttering and organizing personal and professional spaces

Connect and Collaborate:

Building and maintaining a professional network

Self-Care:

Focusing on overall wellness, including physical and mental health

Resources Mentioned:

Summer Counselor Conference

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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65. Afterschool Programs with Jenice Lee

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I sit down with Jenice Lee. a youth development consultant and the voice behind the podcast School After Hours. Jenice shares her extensive experience and insights on the importance of after-school programs, their benefits, and how school counselors can effectively collaborate with these programs to create a cohesive and supportive school culture.

Topics Discussed:

The 2024 Summer Counselor Conference details and how to register
Benefits of after-school programs for student growth and engagement
Strategies for building successful after-school programs
The role of school counselors in supporting and partnering with after-school programs
Tips for starting your own after-school sessions, including research and community partnerships
Examples of successful after-school programs and their impact on students
How to secure funding and resources for long-term program sustainability

Connect With Jenice:

Website: https://www.schoolafterhours.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schoolafterhours
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolafterhours/

Join the conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/ND9oBmLW

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

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64. Elementary, Middle and High School Counseling: Let's Compare with Jordan Tatom

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we dive into:

An inspiring conversation with Jordan Tatom, a high school counselor from Tennessee, who shares his unique journey from K-8 to high school counseling.
Insights into the challenges and rewards of transitioning between different educational levels.
Practical advice for school counselors considering a change in their career paths.
The differences in responsibilities and interactions when working with elementary, middle, and high school students.
Details about the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference
Highlights of Jordan's session at the upcoming conference, where he will dive deeper into the differences between educational levels and what to expect when transitioning.

Tune in to learn more about navigating these changes and enhancing your impact on student growth and success.

Links Mentioned:

Meet Jordan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselortatom/

Join the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/2aGE2efT

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

63. How School Counselors Can Nurture Resilience with John Burnett

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, we have a special guest, John Burnett, a middle school counselor from Houston, Texas.

John's journey into education is nothing short of inspiring and serves as a great reminder that our paths can be as unique as the students we serve.

Episode Highlights:

John Burnett's Journey: Discover how John transitioned from being a bank teller to a middle school Spanish teacher and ultimately found his passion in school counseling.
Real-Life Experience: John shares the humorous and unexpected start to his teaching career and how it shaped his approach to education.
Counseling Transition: Learn about John's move from teaching to counseling and the experiences that influenced his decision.
Middle School Focus: Insights into why John loves working with middle school students and the unique challenges and rewards of this age group.
Professional Development: John discusses his session at the upcoming Summer Counselor Conference, focusing on nurturing resilience and supporting middle school mental health.

Key Takeaways:

Unconventional Paths: Embrace the unique and sometimes unexpected journeys that lead us to our passions.
Student Engagement: Strategies for maintaining effective classroom management and lesson planning.
Supporting Mental Health: The importance of understanding and addressing trauma, anxiety, and other mental health issues in students.
Continuous Learning: The value of professional development and staying current with new strategies and ideas in school counseling.

Connect with John:

Website: https://counselingwithmrb.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselingwithmrb/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCihZmtjPKVmN88g6j45Ew0w
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrbcounseling7

Join the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/GKCowpvT

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

62. Navigating the Chaos: Mastering the Unpredictable World of School Counseling with Laura Filtness

Wed, 29 May 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, I dive into the unpredictable nature of school counseling and share strategies to navigate the daily chaos effectively.

I'm thrilled to be joined by my good friend Laura Filtness from Positive School Counselor, an experienced elementary school counselor from Tennessee.

Episode Highlights:

Introduction to Laura Filtness: Learn about Laura’s background, her journey in school counseling, and her unique approach to integrating therapy dogs into her program.
Navigating Unpredictability: Practical tips and strategies for managing the ever-changing and chaotic nature of a school counselor’s day.
Mindfulness in Counseling: Insights into how mindfulness can help school counselors stay responsive rather than reactive.
School Year Chaos: Discussing the challenges of planning and executing programs amidst the unpredictability of the school year.
Parent Workshops & Community Engagement: Effective ways to engage parents and the community in your school counseling program.
Professional Development: The importance of attending conferences like ASCA and the Summer Counselor Conference for ongoing learning and inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

The importance of flexibility and adaptability in school counseling.
How to implement mindfulness practices to enhance your effectiveness.
Strategies to stay organized and prioritize tasks amidst a busy schedule.
Engaging parents and the community to support your counseling initiatives.
The value of professional development and continuous learning.

Until next time, keep making a positive impact!

Resources Mentioned:

Meet Laura:

Website: https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.com/
TpT Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Pawsitive-School-Counselor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/

Join the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/QP9uoz93

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

61. Mind Mapping As A Tool For Building Your School Counseling Program

Wed, 22 May 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat:

We dive into the transformative technique of mind mapping and how it can elevate your school counseling programs.

Whether you're familiar with mind mapping or it's a new concept for you, this episode will provide practical insights and tips to help you harness its full potential.

Here's what we cover:

Introduction to Mind Mapping
Explanation of mind mapping as a powerful visual technique
How it helps organize thoughts, ideas, and information
Personal experiences using mind mapping with students and in program development
Benefits of Mind Mapping
Enhances creativity and critical thinking skills
Promotes holistic thinking and problem-solving
Encourages brainstorming without judgment
Practical Applications in School Counseling
Program Development:
Outlining program goals, strategies, and evaluation methods
Career Fair Planning:
Steps from initial brainstorming to detailed organization
Examples from our career fair planning process
Student Support Services:
Identifying student needs and designing targeted interventions
Categorizing support services and available resources
Upcoming Event
Details about the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference
Dates: July 26-28
Over 40 sessions covering a variety of relevant topics
Pre-recorded sessions are available until June 2025
Opportunities to earn three graduate credits through the University of the Pacific
Register Here

I hope this episode inspires you to incorporate mind mapping into your counseling practice.

The possibilities are endless, and it's a fantastic tool to help structure and enhance your programs.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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60. Your School Counseling Questions Answered

Wed, 15 May 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I dive into your questions about navigating some of the common challenges we face as school counselors. Whether you're preparing for an upcoming interview or trying to optimize your time with students, I've got some tips and stories to help you through. Here's what we covered:

Episode Highlights:

Interview Preparation: I share essential advice on how to prepare for job interviews in the educational sector. From choosing the right outfit to preparing answers for typical interview questions, these tips are designed to help you enter your next interview with confidence.
Managing Specials Rotation: Many of you have asked how to manage counseling duties when you're part of a specials rotation. I discuss strategies for fitting small group sessions into a packed schedule and ensuring you can provide meaningful support to your students.
Participation in IEP Meetings: I tackle the often controversial topic of school counselors' involvement in IEP meetings, offering both legal insights and practical advice to navigate these responsibilities effectively.
Engaging Games for Lunch Bunch: Discover fun and engaging games to play during lunch bunch sessions that not only entertain but also facilitate important discussions. From Uno to Apples to Apples, these games help reinforce social skills and build camaraderie among students.
Counselor Planner: I also talk about the benefits of using a specialized counselor planner to stay organized and effective throughout the school year.

Thank you for tuning in and being a part of our counseling community. Your feedback and participation make our conversation richer and more impactful. I look forward to tackling more of your questions in our next episode!

Links Mentioned:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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59. School Counselors, Students And State Testing Season

Wed, 08 May 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we tackle the often-dreaded state testing season with a fresh perspective and effective strategies to support our students.

We dive into practical tips and creative ideas designed to alleviate testing anxiety and foster a supportive atmosphere in our schools.

Highlights of this episode:

Understanding State Testing: We discuss how to frame state tests as mere snapshots in time, helping students understand that these assessments do not define their worth or capabilities.
Stress Management Techniques: Learn how to implement workshops that teach students stress-relieving techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and positive visualization.
Creating a Comforting Environment: Ideas for motivational posters and calming activities in the classroom to boost student morale and confidence.
Physical Preparations for Test Day: Tips on encouraging students to wear comfortable clothing, have a good breakfast, and other essentials to ease test day stress.
Empowering Students with Confidence: Strategies like assuming a 'superhero' posture to enhance self-esteem right before the test.
Fun Interventions: From rainbow exercises to motivational pencil flags, discover little touches that can make a big difference.
Celebrating Effort: How to create celebratory events that recognize the efforts of both students and teachers during the testing period.

Check out the humorous yet insightful video by Jerry Brooks on state testing misconceptions. 👇👇👇

Gerry Brooks IG Video About Testing Assembly

Testing Helpers From My TpT Store

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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58. Attention School Counselors: You Are Leaders!

Wed, 01 May 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat podcast, we explore the various ways school counselors can step into leadership roles within their schools and communities. I discuss the differences between vertical and horizontal leadership and share examples of how these leadership styles can make a significant impact on student success and school culture. Whether you're a new counselor or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insights into embracing leadership to better support students and advocate for our profession.

Key Topics Covered:

Types of Leadership: I break down vertical and horizontal leadership and explain how they apply to school counselors.

Vertical leadership focuses on leading from the top down, including roles like department head or lead counselor, advocating for students, and supervising counseling programs.
Horizontal leadership involves collaboration, teamwork, and community engagement to support students in a more collective manner.

Examples of Vertical Leadership:

Administrative roles such as department head or lead counselor.
Advocacy leadership, where school counselors participate in school leadership meetings and propose policy changes that benefit students.
Instructional leadership, focusing on designing and implementing guidance curriculums and conducting teacher training on social-emotional learning.

Examples of Horizontal Leadership:

Collaboration with teachers, school psychologists, and social workers to develop support plans for students.
Community engagement, organizing parent workshops, or partnering with local organizations for volunteer programs.
Peer leadership, including mentoring newer counselors and participating in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).

The Value of Leadership:

Leadership roles help school counselors advocate for students and positively influence school culture.
Participation in professional associations, such as state or local counselor associations, is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Volunteering for committees, attending conferences, and engaging with other counselors enhances the counseling community and strengthens the profession.

Get on the waitlist to be notified whenregistration for the 2024 virtual Summer Counselor Conference opens!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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57. What I Wished I Knew Earlier In My School Counseling Career

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat podcast, I share insights into what I wish I had known earlier in my career as a school counselor. We explore the lessons learned from over three decades in the field, and I offer practical advice to both new and experienced counselors. Join me as I discuss key topics like setting boundaries, understanding contracts, and the importance of retirement planning, along with insights from other counselors in our Facebook group.

Key Takeaways:

Mentoring New Counselors: I talk about my experience mentoring a brand new counselor in our district and what I've learned from guiding someone at the start of their journey.
Retirement Planning: I delve into the importance of having a retirement plan early on and share my personal experience with starting late and trying to catch up.
Checking Contracts: I emphasize the significance of reading your contract thoroughly, focusing on more than just the salary. I discuss why understanding benefits, healthcare coverage, and other terms is critical.
Boundaries and Work-Life Balance: I discuss the need for boundaries to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. We explore the benefits of setting clear boundaries to separate work from personal life.
Counselors Need Counselors: I talk about the importance of seeking help when needed and how counselors should not hesitate to seek their own support.
Advice from the Community: I share insights from other counselors, including advice on maintaining a positive outlook, embracing flexibility, and setting boundaries with colleagues and students.

Upcoming Events:

2024 Summer Counselor Conference: I'm thrilled to announce our upcoming summer conference happening from July 26-28. It will feature over 40 sessions and two keynotes, covering a wide range of topics relevant to school counselors. Join us for an enriching experience and a chance to connect with fellow counselors.

2024 Summer Counselor Conference Registration Info Wait List

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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56. The School Counselor's Circle Of Control

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat, we are learning all about the Circle of Control, a fundamental concept that helps us differentiate between what we can and cannot influence in our lives.

Episode Highlights:

Understanding the Circle of Control:

Overview of the Circle of Control and its relevance to both personal and professional life.
Importance of acknowledging what is within our direct influence versus what we need to let go of.

Setting Boundaries:

Practical tips on setting healthy boundaries with students, colleagues, and family to maintain work-life balance.

Time Management:

Strategies for effective time management during the school day.
Emphasizing the significance of prioritizing tasks and the empowerment of saying no.

Professional Development:

Discussion on the importance of continued education and seeking professional growth opportunities.

Creating a Positive Environment:

How to foster a positive atmosphere in both office and home settings.
The impact of the physical and emotional environment on our professional output and personal well-being.

Relationship Building:

Insights into building and nurturing relationships within the school and beyond.

Self-Care and Wellness:

The significance of self-care and the eight dimensions of wellness.

Advocacy and Emotional Regulation:

The role of school counselors in advocating for resources and policies.
Techniques for managing personal emotions and seeking support when needed.

Accepting What We Can’t Control:

Discussion on facing realities like policy changes, parental involvement, and student behavior that are beyond our control.
Strategies to cope with and accept these limitations.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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55. Help! I’m a School Counselor and I Need a Side Hustle!

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode we are exploring side hustles and how to make ends meet as a school counselor.

Episode Highlights:

My Journey to Side Hustles:

Reflecting on my years as a school counselor.
Balancing my passion for counseling with the reality of financial needs.
Sharing my primary side hustle: Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT).

Inspiring Side Hustle Ideas from Our Community:

Coaching Multiple Sports Teams
Running a Summer Camp
Proctoring Exams
Grant Reviewing
And MORE!

The Joy of Creating Tangible Results:

Encouraging counselors to seek side hustles that bring joy and a sense of accomplishment.
My mom's wisdom: Life requires something to keep us healthy, something to make us wealthy, and something to bring us joy.
Finding satisfaction in seeing results, whether it's a successful TPT resource or a well-run summer camp.

Invitation to Explore and Share:

Let's continue this conversation!
Reach out with your questions, stories, or ideas for future episodes.
Your experiences could inspire others in our incredible counseling community.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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54. The Top 10 of Counselor Chat’s First Year

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, I am absolutely thrilled to announce we are celebrating a very special milestone - the one-year anniversary of the Counselor Chat Podcast!

???? Highlights of Our Journey:

Reflections on a Year of Growth: It's been an incredible journey of learning, sharing, and connecting with amazing counselors like you from all around. As I look back on the past year, I can't help but feel immense gratitude for the stories, insights, and wisdom shared by our guests and listeners alike.
Top Downloaded Episodes: We'll take a walk down memory lane and revisit some of the episodes that resonated most with our listeners. From navigating undesired classroom behaviors to empowering students with coping skills for anxiety, each episode has been a gift of practical strategies and heartfelt conversations.
Episode 2. Working With Kids With Undesired Classroom Behaviors
Episode28. Avoiding TACOS with Nancy Willard
Episode 3. Activities To Help Kids With Anxiety
Episode 12. School Anxiety Solutions: Technical Tips for Managing Tears at Dropoff with Ashley Bartley
Episode 19. Motivational Interviewing For School Counselors with Reagan North
Episode 32. Teaching Kids How to Be (Or Not Be) Someone’s Friend
Episode 16. Teaching Students About Race and Racism in Elementary School with Kristin Moffett
Episode 44. What Am I Supposed To Do For National School Counseling Week with Mal Jacobs and Hannah Mick
Episode 34. Advice To Counselors From Counselors
Episode 33. Adding Fun To Your Counseling Lessons with Mallory Jacobs
Lessons Learned and Shared: One of the most beautiful aspects of this podcast has been the wealth of advice and wisdom shared by fellow counselors. From self-care reminders to the importance of being present in every moment, these insights have not only enriched our profession but also our lives.

???? Special Gift for Our Amazing Listeners!

As a token of my gratitude for your incredible support, I invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help us reach more counselors and spread the message of Counselor Chat far and wide.

But wait, there's more! If you leave a review and screenshot it to me at carol@counselingessentials.org, I'll send you a gift card for a coffee (or your favorite beverage) as a thank you for being a part of our community!

???? Looking Ahead:

As we celebrate this milestone, I am filled with excitement for the future of Counselor Chat Podcast. We have more inspiring conversations, insightful guests, and valuable resources lined up for you in the coming year.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being a part of this incredible journey. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm have made Counselor Chat what it is today - a community of passionate counselors making a difference.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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53. Using A Scope And Sequence In Career Lessons

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Today I am taking you on a journey into the world of teaching careers to our youngest learners.

Episode Highlights:

Kindergarten Dreams:

Discover how I introduce our littlest explorers to the heroes of our communities. From firefighters with their trusty axes to gardeners with magic green thumbs, kindergarten is a world of wonder!

First Grade Adventures:

Explore the magic of matching careers to skills. Join me as I help students uncover their own unique talents and interests, connecting the dots between dream jobs and the qualities that make them shine.

Second Grade Discoveries:

Delve into the realm of career training. I shed light on the different paths our students can take, introducing the concept of college and specialized programs that turn passions into professions.

Third Grade Insights:

It's all about multiple intelligences! Join me in uncovering the diverse smarts within each student, guiding them towards careers that align with their strengths and passions.

Fourth Grade Expeditions:

Take a tour of workplaces! From bustling town halls to the heart of a school, I paint a vivid picture of the varied careers that await our young adventurers. Who knows where their passions will lead?

Fifth Grade Discoveries:

Dive into the world of career interest inventories! I share how students take the reins, identifying their aspirations and diving into research to uncover the perfect path for their future selves.

Sixth Grade Preparations:

Get ready for the next chapter! I discuss career clusters, advanced training options, and the exciting journey towards informed decision-making as students prepare for the road ahead.

???? Free Career Lesson! ????

Dive into a treasure trove of career exploration with my specially crafted lesson! Available for download from the show notes until March 29th!!! Don't miss this chance to spark curiosity and ignite passion in your students!

Free Lesson: 4th Grade Career Lesson

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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52. Teaching Future Planning As a School Counselor

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, we are chatting about something that is sure to spark joy and excitement - future planning for our incredible students!

Highlights:

Exploring Future Planning

Diving into the world of future planning for our students—empowering them to achieve their dreams.

Strategies for Engagement

Hosting a Career Fair in May at my elementary school—exciting opportunities for students to explore diverse career paths.
"Munch and Lunch" sessions with parents sharing their unique career experiences—inspiring students to think beyond the ordinary.
Eye-opening "How Long is a Lifetime?" lesson—plotting lifespans, retirement ages, and years spent working versus in school.
Teaching students about adulting—budgeting, financial responsibilities, and preparing for life beyond school.

Links for Further Exploration

Dive deeper into the discussed lessons with links provided below
Explore these activities and adapt them to suit the needs of your students and school community.

Lessons Mentioned:

Other Great Lessons for Future Planning:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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51. Finding Grace In Grief: A School Counselor’s Journey

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this Episode of the Counselor Chat, we delve into the challenging terrain of grief, particularly for school counselors who are often pillars of strength for their communities.

Episode Highlights

Experience of Grief:
Reflecting on the different forms of grief, from losing loved ones to pets, colleagues, and students.
Discussing the impact of these losses and how they can affect counselors personally and professionally.
Navigating Grief While Supporting Others:
Exploring the complexity of managing personal grief while being a source of support for students, colleagues, and families.
The struggle of maintaining strength and resilience while dealing with personal loss.
Permission to Feel:
Importance of giving oneself permission to feel emotions and process grief without judgment.
Acknowledging that it's okay not to be okay and allowing time and space for healing.
Seeking Support:
Encouraging counselors to reach out for help, whether from a counselor outside the school community, trusted colleagues, or friends and family.
Reminding that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Personal Experiences Shared:
I also share personal anecdotes from my years as a counselor, showing instances of acknowledging limitations and seeking support from others.

This episode of the Counselor Chat Podcast provides valuable insights into the challenges of managing personal grief while supporting others, emphasizing the importance of self-care, seeking help, and building a supportive community of counselors.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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50. Structuring Your Individual Counseling Sessions

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, we are heading into the art of crafting purposeful counseling sessions. Whether you're new to individual counseling or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers practical insights and strategies to make your sessions effective and engaging.

Episode Highlights:

Setting Clear Objectives
Personalized Check-Ins for Connection
Focus on Grit and Growth Mindset
Engaging Activities to Reinforce Learning
Guided Discussions for Insight
Real-World Application in School
Structured Approach for Results
Homework and Follow-Up for Continuity
Empowering Students for Success

Resources Mentioned:

Self Esteem (grades 3-8)
Self Esteem (grades K-2)
Grit and Growth Mindset (grades 4-8)
Play Skills (grades K-2)
School Success Skills (grades 3-6)
Following Directions (grades K-2)
Family Changes (grades 4-8)

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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Mentioned in this episode:

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49. Individual Counseling Like A Pro

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat Podcast, we are diving into the realm of individual counseling. With a focus on making each session purposeful and impactful, I am sharing practical strategies and insights drawn from my own experience in the field.

Key Takeaways:

Intentional Structure: One of the main points I really want to drive home is the importance of intentionally structuring our individual counseling sessions. It's all about setting clear objectives and creating a framework that follows a psychoeducational approach. When we have a purpose for each session, we can ensure that we're effectively addressing the specific needs and challenges of our students.
Examples of Session Frameworks: I shared some real-life examples in the episode to illustrate how we can structure sessions to meet the diverse needs of our students. Whether it's helping younger students develop play skills or supporting older students coping with family changes, tailoring our sessions to individual needs is key.
Setting Clear Objectives: Clear objectives are essential for guiding our sessions and fostering meaningful conversations with students. By establishing goals, we can empower our students to navigate challenges and develop essential skills that will serve them well beyond our counseling sessions.

Tune in to this episode of the Counselor Chat Podcast to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for making individual counseling purposeful and impactful. Let's empower and support students together!

Individual Counseling Links Mentioned:

Self Esteem (grades 3-8)
Self Esteem (grades K-2)
Grit and Growth Mindset (grades 4-8)
Play Skills (grades K-2)
School Success Skills (grades 3-6)
Following Directions (grades K-2)
Family Changes (grades 4-8)

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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48. When The Referrals Start Coming In–How To Decide Between Group and Individual Counseling

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat Podcast, join me as we delve into the nuanced world of student counseling.

If you have been inundated by an influx of referrals for individual counseling, it's important to make informed decisions about the appropriate type of counseling for each student.

Key Points Covered:

Referral Assessment: the necessity of assessing referrals for individual counseling and highlighting the factors to consider when determining whether individual or group counseling suits a student.
Nature of the Issue: the nature and intensity of student issues is crucial in deciding whether individualized attention or group support would be more beneficial.
Level of Support Needed: the significance of evaluating the level of support required by students, considering their unique circumstances and emotional readiness.
Data Gathering: the importance of gathering comprehensive information from teachers, parents, and other professionals to inform counseling decisions is underscored.
Planning for Sessions: the importance of having a structured plan for counseling sessions, whether individual or group, to ensure that goals are set and progress is made effectively.

Join me as I guide you through the intricacies of counseling decisions and offer valuable insights to enhance counseling practices.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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47. Using Community Circles As SEL Lessons

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Welcome to episode 47 of the Counselor Chat podcast. Today we are diving in deep and talking about how to use Community Circle as SEL lesson.

Episode Highlights:

1. Introduction to Community Circles:

Community circles trace their origins to ancient traditions, fostering inclusivity and mutual respect.
The circle format ensures equal participation and promotes active listening.

2. Setting Up Community Circles:

Physical setup: Arrange seats in a circle without barriers for optimal engagement.
Establish guidelines: Co-create rules emphasizing respect, confidentiality, and active listening.
Teacher involvement: Teachers remain present to demonstrate commitment and contribute insights.

3. Implementing Community Circles:

Introduction phase: Initiate with lighthearted topics to build trust and rapport.
Progression: Transition to deeper discussions on topics like personal integrity and community contribution.
Varied approaches: Utilize storytelling, multimedia, and interactive activities within circles to engage students.

4. Benefits of Community Circles:

Transformational impact: Promotes empathy, breaks down social barriers, and fosters a sense of belonging.
Encourages active listening: Emphasizes that participation includes both speaking and listening.
SEL integration: Aligns with Social and Emotional Learning objectives, enhancing emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.

5. Resources and Further Exploration:

Book recommendation: "Circle Forward" serves as a comprehensive guide to implementing community circles.
Prompts and check-ins: Access resources for engaging circle activities and check-ins to deepen student participation.
Training opportunities: Explore professional development to enhance circle facilitation skills.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Circle Forward Book
Check In Freebie

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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46. Simple Ideas You Can Do For Kindness Month

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode:

Join me as we dive into a heartwarming discussion on celebrating Kindness Month in schools. Throughout the episode, I am sharing tons of ideas, strategies, and book recommendations aimed at fostering empathy and kindness among students.

From school-wide projects to individual acts of kindness, this episode is packed with actionable tips for school counselors looking to make a significant impact on student growth and success.

Whether you're searching for new ideas or looking to refresh your kindness initiatives, this episode promises inspiration and practical advice to help you spread kindness throughout your school community.

Topics Discussed:

Celebrating Kindness Month: February is Kindness Month and celebrating it is so important!
Empathy in Classrooms: Focusing on teaching empathy through lessons and incorporating books that highlight kindness.
Book Recommendations: Suggestions for books to use in kindness lessons, including "The Kindness Quilt" and how it can be used for a school-wide project.
Mix It Up Day: How to host a Mix It Up Day event to encourage students to cross social boundaries, available for all school levels.
Kindness Initiatives: Ideas for school-wide kindness initiatives such as assemblies, Kind Student of the Week, kindness trees, and compliment days.
Kindness and Empathy Lessons: Lesson ideas focusing on kindness and empathy, including book readings and craft activities.
Community Circles and Small Groups: Running community circles and starting kindness or friendship groups to foster kindness and improve communication skills among students.
Individual Sessions: Using kindness or gratitude journaling and mindfulness in individual counseling sessions to promote a positive mindset.
Sister Classrooms: Pairing different grade levels for joint activities, promoting kindness and cooperation.
Kindness Challenges and Projects: Suggestions for engaging students in kindness challenges, such as painting kindness rocks, journaling, and creating a kindness chain.

Resources Mentioned:

Books to Use For Lessons:

Learning For Justice Mix It Up Day Toolkit

Top Secret Kindness Club Small Group

February Kindness Calendar

Mentioned in this episode:

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45. Using Data In Your 2nd Semester Programming

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this enlightening episode, we are taking a look into the often overlooked yet crucial aspect of school counseling - data-driven practices.

As we head into the second semester in the chilly February of New York, I share my journey and insights on harnessing data to enhance student growth and success.

Key Topics Covered:

The Importance of Data in School Counseling: I discuss why, even though data analysis can seem daunting or tedious, it's essential for effective program planning and intervention.
Data Collection for RAMP Application: Insight into the process and significance of collecting data for the RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program) application, highlighting its role in program development.
Practical Strategies for Data Management: I share actionable methods and tools for collecting and analyzing data, emphasizing the need for a purposeful approach.
Time Management and Time Audits: Understanding the significance of conducting time audits to optimize counselor efficiency and program effectiveness.
Utilizing Data for Program Improvement: Strategies to leverage data for enhancing counseling programs, including examples such as initiating peer mediation programs and community circles.
Aligning Counseling Goals with School Objectives: Discussion on how data can help align counseling program goals with overall school goals for a cohesive strategy.
Real-life Applications and Success Stories: I share anecdotes and examples from my own experience, illustrating the impact of data-driven decision-making in school counseling.

Resources Mentioned:

School Counselor Time Tracker

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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44. What Am I Supposed To Do For National School Counseling Week with Mal Jacobs and Hannah Mick

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Get ready to be inspired and energized in this special edition of the Counselor Chat podcast!

This episode features a lively and insightful Zoom call recording with the vibrant Kansas elementary school counselors, Mallory Jacobs and Hannah Mick.

They're here to share their ingenious toolkit for celebrating National School Counseling Week. From discussing the multifaceted role of school counselors to diving into creative and practical ways to celebrate and advocate for the profession, this episode is a treasure trove of ideas, laughter, and inspiration.

Whether you’re a school counselor, educator, or simply someone passionate about the impact of counseling, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain!

Key Highlights:

???? Guest Appearances by Mallory and Hannah: Discover the passion and creativity behind the roles of Mallory Jacobs and Hannah Mick, elementary school counselors and board members of the Kansas School Counselor Association.
???? Celebrating National School Counseling Week: Unpack the essence of this special week with fun, innovative activities, and strategies designed to highlight and advocate for the vital role of school counselors.
????️ Toolkit Exploration: Dive into the details of the toolkit prepared by Mallory and Hannah, featuring easy-to-implement, engaging activities perfect for any school setting.
???? Advocacy Over Celebration: Engage in a thought-provoking discussion on why National School Counseling Week is more about advocating the profession than just celebrating it.
???? Creative Engagement Ideas: Get inspired by a range of ideas from dress-up days to interactive games, all aimed at making the week memorable and impactful.
???? Social Media Interaction: Learn how to share your own celebration stories and connect with a broader community of school counselors and educators.

Tune in to this episode for an enriching experience combining professional insight with fun and community spirit. Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts with us on social media! ????????????️

Mallory Jacobs and Hannah Mick are both Elementary School Counselors in Kansas and serve on the board of the Kansas School Counselor Association. They also have a podcast called Kickin' It With KSCA.

Kickin' It WIth KSCA Podcast
NSCW Toolkit-
Use the hashtag on socials during NSCW #ksde4nscw

Hanna Kemble-Mick- hkemble@ksde.org

Mallory Jacobs- mjacobs@ksde.org

Carol's NSCW resources

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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43. Life As A School Counselor in Budapest, Hungary With Taylor Maxwell

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this podcast episode of Counselor Chat, we delve into the fascinating world of international school counseling with our guest, Taylor Maxwell, a school counselor currently based in Budapest, Hungary.

Taylor brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in Korea and shares unique insights into the life and work of a school counselor abroad.

Here are the key points covered in this episode:

Introduction of Taylor Maxwell: Learn about Taylor’s background, including her education in psychology and her journey from Nashville, Tennessee, to becoming a school counselor in Budapest, Hungary.
Transition from Korea to Hungary: Taylor discusses her shift from high school counseling in Korea, where academic pressure is intense, to middle school counseling in Budapest with a focus on student well-being.
Experiences in International School Counseling: Gain insights into the challenges and rewards of working in different cultural and educational environments. Taylor shares her experiences in both Korea and Hungary.
Life in Budapest: Explore Taylor's personal experiences living in Budapest, including adapting to Hungarian culture, participating in local festivals, and the challenges of learning the Hungarian language.
Advice for Aspiring International School Counselors: Taylor offers valuable advice for those considering a career in international school counseling, including understanding lifestyle choices, family needs, and the support systems available at international schools.
Resources for Finding International Opportunities: Discover resources like ISS and Shroll that Taylor used to find international school openings and the importance of thorough research and asking the right questions.
The Joy of International Living: Taylor shares the joys and challenges of living internationally, including the unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Future Plans and Perspectives: Get a glimpse into Taylor’s future aspirations and her thoughts on potentially moving to Southeast Asia.

Listeners interested in learning more or having specific questions for Taylor can reach out through the podcast’s contact channels.

Interested in hearing the experiences of International School Counselors? Check out these episodes:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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42. Why Take An Energy Inventory As A School Counselor

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of "Counselor Chat," we delve into the transformative practice of conducting an Energy Inventory. Here's what you'll find in this insightful episode:

Understanding Energy Inventory: An introduction to the concept of an Energy Inventory, explaining its importance beyond just physical or home energy, focusing on personal energy management.
The Purpose of Energy Inventory: Insights into how an Energy Inventory serves as a reflective practice to identify what in our lives drains or energizes us.
Steps to Conduct an Energy Inventory: Detailed guidance on how to undertake an Energy Inventory, including assessing different life aspects such as work, relationships, hobbies, and self-care.
Identifying Energy Drainers and Boosters: Strategies to recognize activities, people, and situations that deplete or replenish your energy.
Practical Tips for Managing Energy: Advice on minimizing or eliminating energy drainers, setting boundaries, and the importance of saying no to overcommitments.
Prioritizing Joyful Activities: Emphasis on the significance of engaging in activities and relationships that are fulfilling and energizing.
Benefits of an Energy Inventory: Discussion on how conducting an Energy Inventory can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling life, and better self-care.

Don't forget to check out the link for your own Energy Inventory template and share your journey with us. We're excited to hear how this practice helps you find more balance and joy in your life.

Energy Inventory Link

Resilience 1 Month Challenge

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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41. What If I Don’t Feel Motivated To Go Back To Work After Break?

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 05:15:00 -0400

Join me in a candid exploration of the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with heading back to work after a break.

We will be diving into the mix of feelings we all encounter during this transition, plus, offering insights and reassurance that you're not alone.

Key Highlights:

Mixed Emotions: I discuss the normality of feeling a range of emotions as you gear up to return to work.
Personal Christmas Adventure: Hear about my unique Christmas experience in Puerto Rico with my son, and the moments that left me both refreshed and fatigued.
Rediscovering Your Why: Explore the importance of reconnecting with your passion for being a school counselor and the positive impact you make on students' lives.

This episode leaves you with practical strategies to ease back into your routine and prioritize self-care.

Remember, your feelings are valid, and by acknowledging them, you pave the way for a positive start to the new year.

Tune in to the full episode for encouragement, relatable stories, and valuable insights.

Plus, don't forget to download the Energy Inventory so that you can discover the things that are bringing you energy and the things that are draining you during this season.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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40. Dealing With Teacher Pushback As A School Counselor

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, I dive into school counselors' common challenges when collaborating with teachers. From encountering pushback on interventions to fostering a more collaborative relationship, I share insights and strategies to enhance the counselor-teacher partnership.

Key Highlights:

Understanding Pushback:

Identifying scenarios where teachers resist suggested interventions.
Exploring the frustrations counselors experience when met with resistance.

Navigating Challenges with Empathy:

Approaching conversations with teachers with empathy and understanding.
Recognizing the unique perspectives, experiences, and pressures teachers bring to the collaboration.

Building Collaborative Relationships:

Emphasizing the collaborative nature of the counselor-teacher partnership.
Validating teachers' concerns and expertise as essential contributors to student well-being.

Overcoming Time Constraints and Frustrations:

Addressing the common frustration related to time constraints and challenging students.
Finding common ground to alleviate pressure and foster cooperation.

Effective Communication Strategies:

Providing insights on effective communication to bridge the counselor-teacher gap.
Emphasizing the importance of sharing research and data to support suggested interventions.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into navigating collaboration challenges and fostering a more productive relationship with your teaching colleagues.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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39. What if I have a class that’s mean to each other? How to help as a School Counselor

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, join me as we delve into a unique exploration sparked by questions from our vibrant Facebook groups.

This episode centers on the challenges of fostering positive relationships among students within a classroom, addressing disrespectful behavior, and promoting an environment conducive to learning.

From the importance of strong relationships with adults to the implementation of social-emotional learning (SEL) curricula, this episode offers practical strategies.

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for counselors seeking effective tools to navigate the intricacies of student relationships and classroom dynamics. Tune in for a wealth of wisdom and actionable advice.

Links Mentioned:

Facebook Groups:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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38. What I Wished I Learned In Grad School

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode we're shaking things up a bit as we explore the burning question: "What do you wish you learned in grad school?" The response from our amazing community has been overwhelming, and we're excited to share the insights, experiences, and challenges faced by fellow counselors.

Tune in to this episode for a candid and intimate conversation that reaffirms you're not alone in your journey as a counselor. The collective wisdom of our community awaits.

I hope this episode speaks to you and that if you feel like you have something that you can share, whether it's advice for those that are maybe struggling a little bit or a question you have that you want answered, that you'll drop me a line, that you'll send me an email to Carol@counselingsentials.org, or you'll leave a review on this podcast and ask that question or share your tip.

But whatever it is you do or connect, with me on Instagram or Facebook. Whatever you choose to do. I hope that you join in this conversation because there are so many things that I think we all wish that we learned while we were in grad school.

Send us your thoughts! Send us a voice message!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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37. School Counseling in a Korean International School with Michelle Pownall

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, join us as we dive into the incredible journey of Michelle, a seasoned international counselor currently based in Florida.

Sneak peak of what is inside:

Travel Experiences:

Benefits of working in Asia, including travel opportunities.
Schools providing allowances for professional development.

Family Experiences:

Choosing unconventional summer vacations over returning home.
Experiencing diverse cultures and historical sites with family.
Kids growing up with a global perspective.

Advice for Those Considering International Positions:

Emphasizing the value of the international experience.
Michelle's personal experience paying off significant debt through international roles.
Encouraging research for those contemplating international positions.

Connect with Michelle Pownall:

pownallmichelle@gmail.com

Or tag her in a post in:

Mentioned in this episode:

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36. School Counseling in Ethiopia with Daniel Inman

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Counselor Chat podcast, I welcome special guest Daniel Inman, an elementary school counselor at the International Community School of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Daniel received his M.Ed. in International School Counseling from Lehigh University in 2021. Daniel shares his diverse background, transitioning from teaching PE in North Carolina to counseling in various countries, including Taiwan, Singapore, Germany, and now Ethiopia.

The discussion delves into the unique characteristics of the International Community School, emphasizing its rich diversity with students from around the world. Daniel provides insights into his daily routine, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of working in Ethiopia.

Daniel highlights the importance of researching schools and countries when considering international opportunities. He suggests connecting with international educator groups on platforms like Facebook and recommends organizations such as Search Associates and Teacher Horizons for job searches.

The conversation also touches on the International School Counselors Association (ISCA) and its upcoming conference in Athens, Greece, in March. Daniel encourages listeners to explore international opportunities and assures them of his willingness to provide guidance.

Links Daniel Mentioned:

https://www.searchassociates.com/
https://www.teacherhorizons.com/
https://www.grcfair.org/
The International Educator: https://www.tieonline.com/default.cfm

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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35. Data Tells A Story with Katie Row

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, join me as I chat in a thought-provoking conversation with the dynamic Katie Rowe, a seasoned middle school counselor hailing from St. Louis, Missouri.

The episode delves into Katie's 13 years of counseling experience, emphasizing the powerful role data plays in shaping student success.

Together, we explore Katie's unwavering advocacy and discover the practical strategies and insights Katie shares on employing data-driven practices to navigate the intricacies of student needs and program advocacy.

From the innovative use of Panorama for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) data to the creation of a transformative "Zen Zone," this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and actionable tips for educators and counselors alike. Tune in for a compelling narrative on the transformative impact of data-driven practices in education!

Katie Row is a Middle School Counselor in a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. She has been a school counselor for 13 years. Katie loves hiking, summer vacations and collecting and using Data in her counseling program.

Find out more, or contact Katie through one of the channels below:

IG @edukatied_row
TikTok @edukatiedrow
Email: edukatiedrow@gmail.com

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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34. Advice To Counselors From Counselors

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this special episode of Counselor Chat, I am doing something different and sharing invaluable advice from experienced school counselors. this advice is not only for new counselors but also beneficial for seasoned professionals as they navigate the challenges of their roles throughout the school year.

Some of the advice you will here:

- Be Visible and Communicative: a school counselor with 11 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of being visible in your school.

- Building Relationships and Eating Lunch with Students: a counselor with 30 years of experience, shares her wisdom. She recommends focusing on building relationships not only with students but also with cafeteria workers and custodians, who can be valuable allies in your work.

- Never Be Too Proud to Ask for Help: a 12-year counselor and the 2018 California School Counselor of the Year, offers essential advice for counselors, both new and experienced. He highlights the significance of being humble and admitting when you don't have all the answers.

- Find Your Support System: an elementary school counselor from Arkansas, underscores the importance of finding a support network.

- Take Care of Yourself: a school counselor from Ohio, emphasizes self-care in a challenging profession.

- Remember It's About Relationships: a counselor with 13 years of experience, highlights the central role of relationships in counseling.

- Have Fun in the Chaos: a counselor in her 7th year offers a piece of advice that encourages counselors to find moments of joy and fun amidst the chaos of their roles. Her advice reminds counselors not to forget to enjoy the journey and have fun while making a positive impact on their students' lives.

- Use Strategic Noticing: another counselor from Northwest Ohio introduces the concept of "strategic noticing."

I am so thankful for the experienced counselors who shared their wisdom and advice, and I encourage you to share your own insights and experiences, as this kind of collaboration helps elevate the counseling profession and support one another. Click the link below to submit your tip/advice!

We want to hear from you! Have something to share with other counselors? Click Here!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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33. Adding Fun To Your Counseling Lessons with Mallory Jacobs

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, we are thrilled to have the dynamic Mallory Jacobs as our special guest. Mallory is the lead elementary school counselor at Whitson Elementary in Topeka Public Schools and serves as a school counseling consultant for the Kansas Department of Education. She's also known for her role as the bylaws and ethics co-chair for the Kansas School Counselor Association and has been recognized as the 2023 Kansas School Counselor of the Year. With her vibrant personality and a penchant for leopard and cheetah prints, Mallory is a powerhouse in the world of elementary school counseling.

Mallory and I delve into strategies for making counseling lessons not only effective but also incredibly fun and engaging for elementary school students.

Some fun things in this episode include:

Unique Breathing Techniques: Mallory introduces entertaining and imaginative breathing exercises like "Spider Man" and "soup" breathing. These techniques add an element of playfulness to relaxation exercises, making them enjoyable for elementary school students.
"Would You Rather" Game: Mallory shares the "Would You Rather" game as a way to prompt discussions and decision-making. This interactive game is not only fun but also encourages student participation and engagement within the classroom community.
"Color the Counselor" Activity: Mallory's "Color the Counselor" activity is a creative and unique way to connect with students. It's a fun and visual representation that fosters a sense of belonging and trust. The colored pictures proudly displayed in her office add a personal and enjoyable touch to her counseling sessions.
The "Awesome" Cheer: Mallory's "Awesome" cheer is a positive and uplifting way to conclude her counseling lessons. It promotes self-confidence and self-worth, and it's a fun and empowering ritual for students.
Heartwarming Story: We share a heartwarming story called "The Pup." This story emphasizes the power of kindness and empathy and is a delightful addition to any classroom. It's a touching and memorable moment that underscores the importance of teaching valuable life lessons to young students.

As we conclude this episode, we encourage you to watch Rita Pearson's TED Talk on being a champion for kids, emphasizing the importance of building positive relationships with students. Every day counts in the field of education, and creating a supportive and caring environment is key to nurturing the next generation.

As Mallory says, "As our world is changing, I am confident that we will create our path and encourage shape, and empower students, families, and staff. I am excited to give back to our profession which has given me so much. Thank you and I look forward to working with you! Don’t forget to be awesome!"!

We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our guest, Mallory Jacobs, for her invaluable insights into making counseling lessons fun and effective for elementary school students. If you'd like to connect with Mallory or learn more about her work, her contact information is provided below!

Join us as we talk and share fun tips and tricks for elementary lessons!

Connect With Mallory:

mjacobs@tps501.org

Links Mallory Mentioned:

The World Needs More Purple Schools-https://youtu.be/3lGON12Nib8?si=YhhDdHqBSvVAgXOj
The World Needs More Purple People-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LviYLYVRScw
All are Welcome-https://www.amazon.com/All-Are-Welcome-Alexandra-Penfold/dp/0525579648
https://reallycolor.com/
Crayola App- https://www.crayola.com/Home/product%20feature/Color%20Camera
Dr. Suess Book- https://www.amazon.com/Things-You-Can-That-Good/dp/0375810986

Links Carol Mentioned:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

32. Teaching Kids How to Be (Or Not Be) Someone’s Friend

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we'll be delving into the importance of teaching friendship skills as a crucial component of our anti-bullying education efforts. We'll explore how fostering these skills can help students develop empathy, improve communication, practice kindness, learn cooperation, hone their problem-solving abilities, understand the art of forgiveness, grasp personal boundaries, and discover effective conflict resolution.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and suggestions. Feel free to reach out to me via email at Carol@counselingessentials.org. Your input is highly appreciated, and it helps shape the direction of our podcast.

Don't forget to follow or subscribe to the podcast on your preferred platform and connect with me on social media at counseling essentials. I'm looking forward to our next episode and can't wait to share more valuable insights. Thanks for tuning in!

Bullying lessons mentioned can be found here:

Try Perks Counseling Content Club FREE for 7 days and receive instant access to hundreds of free lessons!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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31. Using Student Emotional Check-Ins During Counseling Sessions

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode we talk about the power of using emotional check in with students and ideas of check ins to use with students.

Why Use Emotional Check-Ins:

Emotional check-ins are a valuable tool for school counselors.
They serve as an assessment of students' emotional well-being.
Identify students who may need additional support or intervention.
Promote a safe and supportive environment for students to express their feelings.
Foster empathy among students as they share their emotions.
Build trust and enhance group dynamics.
Reduce potential conflicts within the group.
Provide tailored support for individual students.
Teach emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Normalize the ups and downs of life to reduce the stigma around counseling.
Track progress over time.
Enhance students' communication skills.

Check In Examples:

Sentence starters: "I feel," "I wish," "I need," "I hope," "I want."
"High Low Buffalo" - Positive, negative, and something funny from the day.
"Hit Rewind, Let's Rerecord, Press Play" - Reflecting on what to replay, rerecord, or look forward to.
"Happy News, Sad News, No News Today" - Sharing something positive, something negative, or having nothing to share.
Using thermometers or Likert scales to rate their day.
"Feelings Check-In" with pictures of emotions for younger students.
Creative options like "Brick and a Balloon," "Glow and Grow," "High and Low," and more.
"Rose, Thorn, and Bud" - Sharing a good thing, a not-so-great thing, and something to look forward to.

Links Mentioned:

Grab this FREE Check In Sampler

Want the bundle of check ins? Grab them here!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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30. Brain Break Ideas

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode we explore a range of engaging classroom activities suitable for students of all ages. You'll be introduced to a series of interactive exercises designed to foster emotional awareness, teamwork, and active participation in lessons

Activities Discussed:

Feelings FreezeLine and Blobs
Line Up By...
Cross the Line
Desk Charades
Clap, Clap, Tap
House Rock Tree
Four Corners
Stand Up or Sit Down

Carol's Brain Breaks on TpT:

Brain Breaks

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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29. Activities To Help With Classroom Engagement

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 05:45:00 -0400

In this episode of "Counselor Chat" I discuss strategies to actively engage students in lessons. There are challenge of keeping students engaged but active learning activities are a way to increase student engagement, retention, and critical thinking skills.

The benefits of active learning include promoting skill development, diverse perspectives, and an increased enjoyment of learning.

Activities Discussed:

The "partner pairing" strategy, which alleviates the pressure of students choosing partners and encourages random pairing.
"Four corners" --a versatile activity for evaluating different perspectives on various topics.
"Cross the line" -- an activity to prompt students to express their preferences and opinions.
The "value line" strategy encourages students to position themselves along a continuum to represent the strength of their feelings about a topic.
"Down the line" --a group discussion activity that involves students moving to different positions to share and discuss questions.
"Circle in circle" -- similar to "down the line" but involves forming two circles and rotating positions.
"Snowball fight" activity, where students write answers to questions, crumple them into "snowballs," and engage in an interactive exchange of ideas.
"Toss and catch" involves tossing an object to students who must answer a question or pass it to another classmate.
"Create a commercial" activity, where students work in groups to create persuasive commercials related to a topic.
"Two Truths and a Lie" is a fun activity that encourages students to identify the false statement among two truths and one lie.

Post-activity discussionsare important to guide students in reflecting on the past, present, and future implications of their experiences

Activities to try:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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28. Avoiding TACOS with Nancy Willard

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Today we are talking with Nancy Willard, the director of Embrace Civility, a program designed to helps empower students to understand their behaviors, while creating positive school climates andunderstanding cultural competance. Nancy has degrees in special education and law, taught “at risk” children, practiced computer law, and was an educational technology and digital safety consultant.

Nancy is here to share how to best handle situations when students are dysregulated. You’ll hear about what to avoid in these situations (otherwise known as TACOS) in order to promote a positive and safe learning environment. Nancy also gives some helpful calming strategies and coping mechanisms that you and your students can use when faced with triggering situations.

Plus, Nancy sheds light on the impact of trauma on the brain, the power of kindness, and the role of accountability in creating a harmonious community. All of these practical tips would be great to share with teachers in your school for supporting dysregulated children.

Topics Discussed:

The parts of the brain involved in the dysregulation process
The lifecycle of a triggering event leading to an outburst
What ‘TACOS’ stands for, and why we want to avoid it
How you can communicate with students when they are having an outburst
What to do after a student begins to calm down
The difference between reactive triggering and intentional misbehavior
Implementing an accountability process if a student needs to remedy any harm done
Trigger prevention strategies to teach students
Seven “be positively powerful” strategies

Resources Mentioned:

VIA Character Strengths Survey
Hardwiring Happiness, by Rick Hanson PhD
Chapter 6 of Engage Students to Embrace Civility

Connect with Nancy:

Embrace Civility website

Nancy's Books:

Engage Students to Embrace Civility
The Way Of The Donkey (picture book)

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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27. Why Start A Hope And Resiliency Small Group?

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I delve into the advantages of running a small group centered on hope and resiliency for students in upper elementary through high school. I outline the top 10 reasons why these groups are essential, ranging from boosting mental well-being and academic success to creating a more positive school climate and enhancing conflict resolution skills.

I also share my personal experience in structuring and running these groups, from selecting the right participants to conducting activities such as exploring the concept of identifying personal strengths, setting SMART goals, and discussing the resilience of famous figures who faced setbacks.

After listening, I hope you’re inspired to consider starting your own hope and resiliency groups! I saw a huge positive impact on my students when using this type of group, and feel that the beginning of the year is the perfect time to try it out.

Topics Covered:

How teaching hope and resiliency enhances students’ mental well being
The ripple effect that comes when we encourage students to manage their emotions constructively
Helping students to feel a sense of belonging among their peers
The details of how I structured my hope and resiliency small group, including how I chose the students to invite and how long I ran for the group for
Setting long-term goals for your small group
Teaching hope vs. false hope and doing a personal strength inventory

Link Mentioned:

Having Hope Small Group Curriculum

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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26. Why We Should Teach An Identity Lesson At The Beginning Of The School Year

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

When we begin a new school year, there are so many topics that we could dive into with our students. I think one of the very most important things we can teach our students as we kick off the year is identity.

We have a unique role in fostering discussions around identity, diversity, and empathy. So in this episode, we’ll look at the importance of teaching an identity lesson at the beginning of the school year and how it sets the stage for everything that follows.

I have ideas for several interactive activities and group discussions that you can use to help students reflect on their own identities and appreciate differences in others. Additionally, we’ll address the role of empathy and how we can challenge biases and stereotypes to create a welcoming atmosphere for all students. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite book recommendations that explore these themes!

If you have favorite books that you use to teach about identity, please send me a message on Instagram or an email to carol@counselingessentials.org. I would love to create a list of books to share with everyone!

Topics Discussed:

How we can facilitate discussions around identity
Why teaching identity makes for a really great first or second lesson at the beginning of the school year
Examples of activities that foster self-awareness and lay the foundation for understanding others
Challenging the biases and stereotypes that often influence how we perceive others
Great mentor texts to use when teaching empathy
Hosting school events that celebrate different cultures, religions, and traditions

Links Mentioned:

Books:

Book Companion Lessons:

Identity Lessons

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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25. How to Perk Up Your Program, Curriculum and Confidence as a School Counselor

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Join me as I talk to Brandy Thompson, AKA The Counseling Teacher. Brandy is a teacher turned counselor and currently works with middle schoolers. In this episode, Brandy and I talk about how to perk up your program, curriculum, and confidence as a school counselor.

We open up about our journey as counselors, sharing successes and challenges we’ve faced along the way. We’ll also shed light on how finding a balance between work and personal life can greatly impact your confidence and overall well-being.

Plus, we have big news! Brandy and I are joining forces, as she and I have created The Perks School Counseling Membership. Inside you’ll gain community and all the resources you need so that you can spend less time planning and more time doing the things you love. And guess what? You can get your first month FREE by using the code PODCAST or signing up here.

Topics Discussed:

What Brandy’s first impression was when she joined the membership
How much community and support can help with avoiding burnout
My experience as a new counselor, and the imposter syndrome that pops up for so many of us
What I would change about the counseling profession if I had a magic wand
What you can expect inside The Perks School Counseling Membership

Links Mentioned

Join The Perks School Counseling Membership for K-8 Counselors and get your first month free
Perks Coupon Code: PODCAST
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Instagram

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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24. Trust Your Journey with Indra Owens

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

As counselors, we support several different grade levels, students with various learning abilities, and families with diverse backgrounds. It’s rewarding work, but it’s also challenging to meet the needs of so many students. For many of us, it feels even more challenging in this post-COVID climate.

Our guest and seasoned counselor, Indra Owens, focuses on empowering families to navigate the challenges of the post-COVID era. Indra believes in combining theory and practice to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families, and she's here to share her insights on how school counselors can build resilience and create authentic relationships with their students.

Indra is the curator of the Trust Your Journey Project. The premise is to redefine Mental Health & Mindfulness awareness, advocacy & support in Urban communities, and building resilient families. Using the conceptual framework to: engage, educate, empower & equip & providing easy to use strategies, tools and resources to navigate in today's virtually charged climate. Indra is a School Counselor in Atlantic CIty, NJ and was the 2020 NJ School Counselor of the Year.

Topics Covered:

The story behind the Trust Your Journey Project
Advice for counselors who want to help redefine mental health and mindfulness awareness
How you can teach kids to reframe their thoughts
Infusing theory and practice to best support our students, especially post-COVID
Indra’s best tip for new school counselors
Why you should be invested in your own professional development

Connect with Indra:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

23. Decorating Your Office On A Dime

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

There’s so much to consider when you’re setting up your office. You want the space to be functional, but you also want it to reflect your personality and be a space where students enjoy spending time. And what’s often the most challenging part of decorating your office? Doing it on a budget!

In today’s episode, we’re diving into creative and budget-friendly ways to decorate your counseling office without breaking the bank. We'll explore simple steps like decluttering and organizing your space, as well as furniture placement ideas to maximize functionality.

We'll also discuss replacing faded or outdated decor, using calming colors, and adding accessories like pillows, curtains, and area rugs to create a warm and positive atmosphere. Plus, I have some thrifty DIY ideas for you.

After listening, share what your office space looks like in one of our Facebook groups! The links for these groups are listed below.

Topics Covered:

The big difference that decluttering your office can make, and the positive effects that it can have on your students
What to consider when deciding on furniture placement and colors used in your decor
Examples of some things that you might want to avoid putting in your office
How to easily create inexpensive and eye-catching wall art
Suggestions for what to include in your ‘calm down corner’
A hack for defining specific areas in your office

Links Mentioned:

Facebook Groups:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

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Mentioned in this episode:

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22. Why School Counselor Introduction Lessons Are Important

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

At the beginning of the school year, do you take the time to introduce yourself and your role as a school counselor to the students in your building?

Or, do you assume the students know who you are and what you do?

I used to assume everyone knew me and knew what I did as a school counselor. But over time, I realized that wasn't true and I gained some very valuable insight on the significance of introducing yourself and your role as a school counselor.

That’s what we are diving into in today’s episode. We are going to be chatting about why and how to introduce yourself and your role as a school counselor at the beginning of the school year.

Topics Covered:

How to build rapport and connection with students. When students feel connected and comfortable, they are more likely to seek support and confide in you about their concerns and challenges
Informing students about available support, the extent of your role, and the ways you can assist them in their academic success, personal growth, and overall well-being
Why establishing trust with students is crucial
Normalizing help-seeking behaviors. This proactive approach breaks down barriers and encourages students to seek support when facing challenges
The importance of setting clear expectations including explaining confidentiality policies, scheduling procedures, and the types of problems you can assist with
Engaging methods for introducing yourself to students

Resources Mentioned:

Questions about the conference or anything you heard on this episode?

Send me an email: carol@counselingessentials.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

21. Sharing An Office Space with Ashley Morat

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Have you ever had to share an office or classroom with a colleague? Sharing a workspace can be challenging and can certainly have its ups and downs, especially if the move is unexpected and the space is small.

In this episode, my colleague and officemate, Ashley Morat, and I are chatting about how we came to share the same workspace and how we make it work successfully. 🙌🏼

Topics Covered:

The importance of having open, honest, and frequent communication with your officemate.
How to set clear boundaries and know when to ask permission to use certain items.
Why having a positive mindset, open mind, and being flexible is crucial when sharing an office space.
How having two counselors allows us to reach every student more effectively and provide additional support when necessary.
How sharing office space can be a rewarding experience and can help you both grow as professionals and as friends.

Resources:

Questions about anything you heard on this episode? Send me an email: carol@counselingessentials.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

20. Incorporating Diversity Into Your Groups with Leslie Cuprill

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Does your school have an advisory program? A successful advisory program includes social-emotional learning (SEL) done by both classroom teachers and school counselors. It creates a supportive environment, fosters connections between students and educators, and addresses various topics including bullying, relationship building, and college preparation.

Our guest, Leslie Cuprill is a licensed clinical social worker from Brooklyn, who has extensive experience working with diverse populations of students. In our conversation today, we will discuss how to create an engaging advisory program that promotes social-emotional learning (SEL) to help students thrive in their academic and personal lives.

You can hear more from Leslie at The Summer Counselor Conference where she will be presenting a session on engaging students in groups, advisory, and SEL.

Topics Covered:

The many benefits of advisory programs; including improved attendance, engagement, graduation rates, and more.
Why it is important for school counselors to support classroom teachers with training to effectively facilitate advisory sessions and connect with students.
The best ways for integrating advisory into the regular school day in order to increase student engagement and accountability.
Engaging students by using surveys to gather student preferences and interests and involving them in creating ground rules for advisory sessions.
Why it is essential to understand the diverse cultural backgrounds of students when designing advisory content.
Tips on how to overcome teacher resistance and create a successful advisory program.

Connect with Leslie:

Email: Leslie.informeddeisions@gmail.com
Informed Decisions Newsletter
Informed Decisions Blog
Advisory and SEL Programs And Activities Facebook Group
Informed Decisions Instagram
Informed Decisions TpT Store
Informed Decisions on Boom Learning

Resources:

Questions about the conference or anything you heard on this episode?

Send me an email: carol@counselingessentials.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

19. Motivational Interviewing For School Counselors with Reagan North

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Have you ever used motivational interviewing (MI) in your school counseling program? If you aren’t familiar with motivational interviewing, it is a technique that focuses on building empathy and helping students talk themselves into making positive changes based on what motivates them.

It’s absolutely fascinating to learn about and for our guest today, Reagan North, it completely changed the way he viewed his job as a school counselor. Reagan is here to share all about this technique and how you can use it with your students.

Reagan North is a professor and author of Motivational Interviewing for School Counselors. In our conversation, we discuss the power of motivational Interviewing (MI) in school counseling and how it can lead to positive behavioral changes in students.

You can hear more from Reagan at The Summer Counselor Conference where he will be presenting a session on motivational interviewing techniques for individual counseling, small groups and classroom lessons.

Topics Covered:

A powerful MI technique that leads to better understanding and connection with students.
How asking for permission to discuss sensitive topics or change allows students to feel in control of the conversation
Different ways that school counselors can use MI (Motivational Interviewing) effectively
Why giving advice can actually break our relationships with students
The difference between a simple and complex reflection, and examples of how you might use it during a counseling session
What to focus on in order to help students develop the motivation to make positive change in their lives

Links Mentioned:

Connect with Reagan North:

Facebook: Motivational Interviewing For School Counselors
Twitter: @ReaganNorth

Grab Reagan's Book:

Motivational Interviewing For School Counselors

More Resources:

Questions about the conference or anything you heard on this episode?

Send me an email: carol@counselingessentials.org

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

18. 5 Steps to Vocalizing Your Value with Jeff Becker

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

When was the last time you got to the end of a work day and actually got everything done that was on your to-do list?

As our guest Jeff Becker says, “there’s never a quiet day in the counseling office”. It’s non-stop and some days the overwhelm really wears on you. What’s worse is that other staff members may not recognize the hard work that you put in each day.

Jeff and I both know exactly how you feel, which is why he’s here to emphasize the importance of vocalizing your value and showcase his passion for helping other counselors succeed.

You’ll hear Jeff introduce a new training program, “Counselor Impact Training”, which focuses on empowering counselors to understand and utilize data effectively, identify and address performance gaps in students, and develop creative interventions. Plus, he explains the significance of pitching innovative ideas to school leaders and display your impact to stakeholders.

Topics Covered:

How to communicate who you are, what you do, and the value you provide
Strengthening the skill to understand and apply data effectively for student success
Identifying hidden performance gaps impacting students
Inspiring the creation of unique innovative solutions to address individual student needs.
Boosting your confidence in presenting bold innovative ideas to school leaders
Jeff will be presenting a session at the upcoming Summer Counselor Conference, focusing on how to get teachers involved in delivering counseling lessons and fostering social-emotional learning in the classroom.

Resources:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

17. Bringing Accountability to Your Own Wellness with Dr. Sandi

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

As counselors, we do so much for our students, but how do you actually show up for yourself in supporting your own wellness?

This is just one of many great questions that we're going to challenge you to ask yourself today. In this episode of Counselor Chat, Dr. Sandi Logan from Oceanic Yoga and Wellness joins me to discuss the topic of bringing accountability to your own wellness as a counselor.

Dr. Sandi emphasizes the importance of connection and commitment in supporting personal wellness. She introduces the Indivisible Self Model of Wellness, which focuses on five key elements: creative, social, physical, coping, and essential self.

She also provides examples and strategies for nurturing each element, such as engaging in creative activities, investing in relationships, cultivating a healthy relationship with food, and prioritizing physical well-being. She leaves us with 2 questions to consider:

What are 1 or 2 steps that you can take immediately to bring greater accountability to your wellness?

What are 1 or 2 steps that may take more time and effort to implement, but lead to long term wellness?

Topics Covered:

Overcoming the challenge of implementing wellness practices as a counselor despite understanding their importance
The Indivisible Self Model of Wellness: creative, social, physical, coping, and essential self
The importance of using your sick and mental health days
Strategies for nurturing each element include engaging in creative activities, investing in relationships, cultivating a healthy relationship with food, and prioritizing physical well-being

Links Mentioned In The Show:

Summer Counselor Conference

Connect With Dr. Sandi:

Instagram- Beachmeetswellness

Oceanic Hoga And Wellness Blog

Facebook Page--Beach Meets Wellness

Facebook Group-- The School Counselor Sanctuary

Connect With Carol:

Carol's website

TPT store

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

16. Teaching Students About Race and Racism in Elementary School with Kristin Moffett

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

How do you approach teaching the topics of race and racism with your elementary students, especially if you are not a person of color? If you need additional support with this, this episode is for you!

In this podcast episode, I interview Kristen Moffett, a 20 + year school counselor at the Walker School in Georgia. Kristen shares her experiences and insights on addressing race and racism with elementary students.

Kristen collaborated with parents, administration, and colleagues to develop a curriculum focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, race, and racism. She discusses the significance of educators taking responsibility for learning and educating themselves about race and racism, rather than solely relying on individuals from diverse backgrounds to teach these topics.

Kristen is also going to be one of our presenters at the 2023 Summer Counselor Conference. Be sure to grab your ticket here today!

Topics Covered:

Educators, regardless of their racial background, must educate themselves about race and racism and take responsibility for teaching these topics to students.
The curriculum developed by Kristen and her team, consisting of five lessons on diversity, equity, inclusion, race, and racism.
Using age-appropriate definitions and language when teaching about race and racism
Simplifying complex concepts to ensure students comprehend and engage in meaningful discussions.
The importance of collaborating with parents, administrators, and colleagues in addressing race-related topics effectively.

Resources Mentioned:

More Than Peach Book

More Than Peach Project

Summer Counselor Conference

Follow Kristen Moffett on Twitter

Connect with Carol:

Carol's website

TPT store

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

15. The Top 10 Excuses I Told Myself For Why I Shouldn’t Attend An ASCA Conference

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Attending conferences during the summer is a great way to reset your mindset, set goals, and prepare for the upcoming school year. I’ve attended the ASCA Conference both as an active participant and presenter.

There is a unique energy, excitement, and inspiration that can be found at this event. However, it's common to make excuses as to why you should not attend a conference such as shyness, missing family, not meeting anyone, cost, and thinking you wouldn't learn anything new.

In this episode, I am going to debunk these excuses and emphasize the value of attending conferences for professional development and personal growth.

Topics Covered:

My experience with attending the ASCA Conference as a participant and a presenter
Common excuses people make for not attending conferences
Practical tips for those attending in-person conferences
Benefits of attending summer conferences both in-person and virtually

Blog Posts

ASCA Conferences

Resources:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

14. School Counselors: Level Up Your Game – Why Conferences Matter

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Do you attend conferences or professional development trainings during the summers? Attending national and state conferences can open up a world of opportunities for learning and networking with other educators and counselors.

In this episode, we are chatting about the benefits of attending conferences and other professional development trainings. I am also announcing details about the 2023 Summer Counselor Conference I am hosting in August! You won’t want to miss the amazing keynote speakers and presenters I have lined up!

Topics Covered:

Why it is important to attend professional development trainings for school counselors
How to keep up with the changing educational landscape and aligning counseling approaches with evolving needs
How to create networking and collaboration opportunities with colleagues from different schools and districts
Announcement of the 2023 Summer Counselor Conference! 🎉

Links Mentioned:

ASCA Conference
Summer Counselor Conference
Prior episode about anxiety that was mentioned (Activities To Help Kids With Anxiety)
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Questions about the conference or anything you heard on this episode?

Send me an email: carol@counselingessentials.org

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

13. Mindfulness with Beverly Fernandez

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 05:45:00 -0400

Mindfulness is a topic we hear a lot about. But what really is mindfulness? What does it look like? And how can we use it in the classroom with our students?

In this episode of the Counselor Chat Podcast, I interview Beverly Fernandez, also known as ‘Counselor Bev’. Beverly dives deep into the topic of mindfulness and its powerful impact on both students and educators.

Mindfulness is all about appreciating the present moment, helping us break free from stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. By being fully present and anchoring our thoughts to our senses, we can experience greater clarity and emotional well-being.

Topics Covered:

Beverly Fernandez discusses the concept of mindfulness and its importance in being present and reducing stress and anxiety.
Strategies for incorporating mindfulness in the classroom such as using breathing, senses, art, music, and movement.
Introducing mindfulness to students while respecting individual preferences and beliefs
Tips for counselors to practice mindfulness in their own lives such as self-reflection and taking pauses to gain clarity.
Beverly's favorite mindfulness activities, such as breath work, using scents like peppermint, and appreciating water

Beverly Fernandez is a licensed mental health professional and certified thetahealing practitioner. She is a counselor educator and school counselor from the Philippines.

Connect with Beverly Fernandez:

Links Mentioned:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

12. School Anxiety Solutions: Technical Tips for Managing Tears at Dropoff with Ashley Bartley

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Are you a school counselor looking for effective strategies to address separation anxiety, school anxiety, and school refusal? If so, this episode of Counselor Chat Podcast is for you!

In this episode, I chat with Ashley Bartley, an experienced elementary school counselor, author, presenter, and creative mind behind Counselor Station. They take a deep dive into the topic of helping kids overcome separation challenges and anxiety.

Ashley Bartley is an Elementary School Counselor in Virginia. She also is Counselor Station on TpT and social media. Ashley will be a presenter at the Summer Counselor Conference where she will go in depth on helping students with school anxiety, separation anxiety and school refusal, but today she'll share what she does at her school to help students who are frequent cryers as they enter school.

Topics Covered:

Identifying the prevalence of separation and school anxiety in recent years, especially following the pandemic
Exploring tactical tips and strategies for educators to support students facing separation and school anxiety
Collaborating with parents and caregivers to provide comprehensive support for students
Implementing tiered interventions to meet students’ varying needs
Creating a positive and inclusive environment for new students, including ELL students

Connect with Ashley Bartley:

Resources:

2023 Summer Counselor Conference

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

11. Prepared Spontaneity in Lesson Planning

Wed, 31 May 2023 05:45:00 -0400

Being spontaneous while being prepared means being ready for unexpected situations while also allowing room for improvisation and creativity. It involves balancing the need for structure and planning with the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances.

To achieve this balance, it's important to have a solid foundation of knowledge, skills, and resources, as well as a mindset of openness and adaptability. This means:

Prioritizing the important tasks.
Being Flexible.
Practicing adaptability.
Maintaining a positive attitude.

Resources Mentioned:

Guided Meditation Scripts

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

10. Closing Down Your School Year

Wed, 24 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

The end of the school year is here, and I’m sure that summer relaxation is on your mind. But wait! Let’s first think about how you can close down this year in a way that will set you up for success for the next one.

This process all starts with reflection. Reflection in itself is an act of self-care. It allows you to assess the effectiveness of your current systems and routines, identify areas for improvement, and shift from busyness to productivity.

In today’s episode I’m going to walk you through exactly what to reflect on, and offer suggestions on possible changes that you can put in place. What you do today can drive you towards where you want to be tomorrow. I promise, your future self will thank you if you take some time to do these things before completely closing the door on your year.

Topics Covered:

The benefits of creating end-of-year reports, and what to include in them
What to do if you didn’t formally collect data during the school year
The real purpose of giving a staff survey (it might not be what you think!)
How data can be an incredibly powerful tool for us as counselors
Tips for cleaning up your inbox and organizing your files
Specific questions to ask yourself as you reflect on your program

Links Mentioned:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

9. Slumps and Burnout and What You Can Do About It

Wed, 17 May 2023 04:45:00 -0400

Burnout is real for school counselors! But, there are things that we can do to try to prevent burnout from happening.

Yes we can be overworked, underpaid, under staffed, tired and exhausted, but if we look at the systems we put in place in our counseling program and start to examine our time on tasks, we can take back some of our time and feel less stressed and more productive.

This episode is filled with tips that you can implement right away to make the most of your day.

Links Mentioned:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

8. Erin’s Law and School Counselors

Wed, 10 May 2023 05:45:00 -0400

Child abuse is a serious issue that affects millions of children worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1 billion children globally have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect in the past year.

Erin's Law is a law that requires all public schools in the United States to implement age-appropriate sexual abuse and assault prevention education. The law is named after Erin Merryn, a survivor of child sexual abuse who became an advocate for such education.

While talking about Erin's Law can leave School Counselors and students feeling uncomfortable, these uncomfortable conversations are so necessary to keep our students safe. Today, we'll be talking about why we need to take on this role and steps to make it easier.

Here are some resources that can help:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

7. Transition To Middle School With Laura Oathout (Music City School Counselor)

Wed, 03 May 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Are you overwhelmed by thinking about all the things you need to do to transition students from the elementary school to the middle school? There's a lot to get done and throw in end of the year testing, end of year activities and fun days, it can seem like there is absolutely no time to cover everything that needs to get done.

Our guest today, Laura Oathout of Music City Counselor, is here to share some tips to make this transition easier and how she got her elementary students ready to move on. I think you will enjoy her easy to implement tips on how to make this transition easier for both you and your students.

Connect with Laura on Instagram: @MusicCityCounselor

Resources that can help:

Middle School Transition Lesson, Activities, & Workbook, Digital & Printable by Music City Counselor
Middle School Readiness Survey by Music City Counselor
Blog Post: Middle School Transition Tips For Success by Music City Counselor
Middle School Transition Bundle by Counseling Essentials
Escape To Middle School Escape Room by Counseling Essentials

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

6. Interviewing Tips For School Counselors

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:45:00 -0400

If you made it to the school counselor interview, you are in the elite few that are being considered for the job! You've wowed them with your resume, now it is time to knock their socks off by how you answer their interview questions. No need to stress, these tips will keep you feeling confident and ready to rock that interview!

Links to resources talked about in this podcast:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

5. Putting Together A School Counselor Resume

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so make sure it is clear, concise, and tailored to the job you are applying for. It's a document that summarizes your education, work experience, skills, and accomplishments.

Today we'll cover the steps to putting together a great resume employers will want to see.

Links to resources talked about in this podcast:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

4. Amplify Your School Counseling Job Search

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Applying for school counseling jobs is a marathon and not a sprint. Planning ahead is the key. You need to get everything in order ahead of time to avoid the stress later on. Brainstorming, networking, trackers and checklists can help you get ready and put your best foot forward. We'll talk all about what you can do now before you even start to write your resume and prep for interviews.

If you are want the trackers and guide we talked about in today's show, make sure you download the FREE Job Search Workbook .

Want more help with building your resume, cover letter and interview prep? Join BOOST , my resume, cover letter and interviewing prep course.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

3. Activities To Help Kids With Anxiety

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Anxiety in kids is a common and normal part of childhood. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or interferes with daily life, it can be a cause for concern.

Some common signs of anxiety in kids include:

Excessive worry about everyday things
Avoidance of certain situations or activities
Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches
Difficulty sleeping
Irritability or restlessness

In this episode we look at 8 activities we can use with kids to help them with their anxiety,

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

2. Working With Kids With Undesired Classroom Behaviors

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Thanks for joining me on our inaugural series of Counselor Chat! This is the place where we'll be talking about all the things that make the great work that you're doing as counselors even better because who doesn't want to learn new hacks to make life easier and our impact on kids even greater.

Today's topic is working with kids who are experiencing undesired classroom behaviors and how you can help. How many times a day are you hearing, "they just aren't getting their work done" or "they can't sit still" or "if they blurt out one more time I am going to lose my mind!" I don't know about you but I hear this an awful lot. Really more so frequently than probably ever before.

I don't know maybe teachers expect you to have a magic wand ready to cast a spell to have every problem disappear. I don't know about you but I certainly don't have this magic wand I mean it sounds pretty amazing, but it's just not something I have. I mean if they did have one I would be the first in line to snag one up, but really, it's just not something I have. What I can help with is creating a behavior chart or a check in and check out to try to help incentivize the desired behaviors which hopefully reduce the undesired ones.

Resources talked about in this episode:

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

1. Introductions and My Why

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Welcome to Counselor Chat! I'm so glad you are here! In our very first episode, I thought I would share with everyone a bit about who I am, my passion about school counseling and my why for this show.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

Welcome to Counselor Chat

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 05:45:00 -0400

Counselor Chat is a podcast dedicated to all things School Counseling! If you're looking for some inspiration, collaboration, easy to implement strategies to make your counseling life easier, then be sure to follow along!

Your host, Carol Miller, from Counseling Essentials, is ready to spark some joy, help you simply your systems and share stories and strategies to make your counseling life easier. Ready? Let's chat!

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!

Connect with Carol:

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership