Much like the school nurse, my services are available to ALL students, not just those with an emotional disability or in a crisis. It is my job to make sure that students are happy and doing their best at school. This is a tall order since so many factors go into kids doing well—their ability to focus and pay attention, their relationships with peers and teachers, how well they can manage their feelings and impulses, and their lives outside of school. I address issues using individual or small group counseling, as well as classroom guidance lessons and even school-wide programs like “Say Something” Week. I ask kids to think of me as a coach who helps them solve their problems. I am also an adult in the building with whom they are never “in trouble.”

I see children just once or twice, or in the classroom setting. Although I do often help children with family problems and behavior at home, my primary role is to deal with school-related problems. Sometimes an issue is better addressed more intensively in a therapeutic setting, and with greater direct parental involvement. I’m glad to help you determine whether or not your child may benefit from outside therapy.

Students come to me in a variety of ways. Usually it’s by recommendation of the classroom teacher and/or the parent. Sometimes they are referred by the office. Often, children will approach me themselves and ask if they can eat lunch with me or schedule an appointment. They may also ask their teacher or someone in the office to give me a message.

Children frequently pop in to tell me about relatively minor or time-limited issues like an argument with a peer or the death of a pet. If that happens, I may not notify you unless: a) there is a safety concern, b) your child has asked to see me repeatedly, or c) if the problem is significant (by adult standards). I will ask for your written permission if I think your child would benefit from regular meetings with me.