Podcasts about school counseling

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Hadley, a school counselor and IMPACT member, for a special guest episode. Hadley is passionate about building rapport and meaningful relationships with students. In this conversation, she shares practical advice for new counselors and simple, effective ways to build strong connections with students. Hadley lives in a small rural town in mid Missouri. She has been married for 10 years and has two daughters who are 8 and 4 years old. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's of Education in Counseling with a license in School Counseling. Hadley has been a school counselor for 11 years and has worked exclusively at the elementary level, serving grades PK through 5. She is currently the 3 to 5 school counselor at her school and is in her third year in this role. Prior to becoming a school counselor, she worked with children in a behavioral health setting, which helped shape her approach to supporting students with diverse needs. What does Hadley love about school counseling? Hadley shares that school counseling gives her the unique opportunity to be a safe and steady presence for her students. Her goal is for every student to leave her office knowing that she is in their corner, cheering them on, and that they always have a safe place to return to when they need support. In her role, she teaches classroom lessons and facilitates both small groups and individual sessions. As she shares in the episode, she values being a consistent and supportive adult in her students' lives. What does she love about individual sessions? Hadley explains that individual sessions allow for deeper relationships. These one on one moments create space to truly understand what a student is walking through and to support them during difficult seasons in a more personalized way. How does she manage the logistics of individual sessions? When a student stops by for a quick visit, Hadley takes time to talk and assess the situation. If she recognizes that the conversation may require more time than the student can reasonably be out of class, she looks for a natural pause in the discussion and lets the student know she will follow up the next day at a specific time. For students who require more intensive support, she schedules consistent weekly sessions. She also uses games as a tool to encourage conversation and help students feel more comfortable opening up. What does a typical day look like? Hadley splits her day into two parts. During the first half of the day, she focuses on individual sessions and small groups. In the afternoon, she teaches classroom lessons that are built into the school's specials rotation. She teaches three 50 minute classroom sessions each day, allowing her to see every class in the building each week. What advice does she have for new school counselors? Hadley emphasizes the importance of building relationships before building a program. She encourages new counselors to focus first on relationships with students, staff, and families. When strong relationships are in place, the program will naturally begin to take shape. She also highlights the importance of setting boundaries. Leave work at work when possible and remember that it is okay to say no to additional responsibilities if you do not have the capacity to take them on. If you enjoyed this conversation, do not forget that next week I am hosting a free live training on how to enhance your individual counseling sessions and begin collecting meaningful data. You will walk away with easy to implement engagement strategies and practical data tracking tools to help you feel confident and valued in your role. Resources Mentioned: Individual Counseling LIVE Training Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

Hanna Kemble-Mick is a school counselor, dean of elementary school counseling, a 2025 School Counselor of the Year® finalist, Therapy Dog mom, and Tech/AI enthusiast. The post Unlock the Power of AI in School Counseling with Hanna Kemble-Mick (EP183) first appeared on Grow Your WHY.

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today we are talking about how to create a parent newsletter, something I personally send out every month to my IMPACT members and one of the resources they love the most. I want to pull back the curtain and share exactly how I structure my parent newsletters so you can try this in your own counseling program. For the next few months, I am running a themed series, and right now the focus is on screen time, a topic I am incredibly passionate about. Parent newsletters are a powerful way to advocate for your role, communicate proactively with families, and support students beyond the school day. Here is how I structure mine. School Counselor Services This section highlights the services the school counselor provides and helps families understand how and when students can receive support. For February, I am breaking down the three tiers of support and explaining what each tier looks like in a school counseling program. Monthly Topic Focus Each newsletter includes a specific social emotional learning topic. This month, the focus is screen time and smartphone use. I share research based information related to screen time and brain development so parents understand why this topic matters. Activities to Try at Home I always include a simple, accessible activity families can do together. For example, tossing a ball back and forth while answering guided questions as the child catches the ball. These activities are designed to be low pressure and easy to implement. Parenting Resources The final section includes an additional resource such as a video, podcast episode, or printable guide. This month, I am sharing a technology agreement PDF that families can use at home to set clear expectations around screen use. If you would like this month's parent newsletter for free, you can grab it directly in the show notes. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT stressfreeschoolcounseling.com/individual  freebie ---> https://brightfutures-counseling.com/pages/free-school-counseling-parent-newsletter https://www.waituntil8th.org/ Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

In this episode, we sit down with two school counselors from Mississippi whose work took an idea from our Teachers Pay Teachers to a national stage. After purchasing our Coping Skills Café, they adapted it to meet the needs of their students. What happened next was something none of us could have predicted. Their work went nationally viral after being picked up by the Associated Press and featured across multiple news outlets.What we love most about this story isn't just the attention, it's the collaboration behind it. These counselors took an idea, made it even better, and implemented it in a way that authentically served their school community. Even more meaningful was the grace and professionalism they showed by crediting the original resource while sharing their work publicly.This conversation is all about creativity, collaboration, and what's possible when school counselors share ideas instead of guarding them. It's a reminder that our best work often happens when we build on one another's strengths — and that there's room for all of us to succeed.If you've ever adapted a resource, wondered what happens after you click “purchase,” or needed encouragement that collaboration truly matters, this episode is for you.Coping Skills Cafe

You hold a master's degree. You studied crisis intervention, psychopathology, and therapeutic technique.So why is your profession still fighting to be seen as essential?It doesn't have to stay this way- but the window is closing.In this episode, I lay out two possible futures for school counseling: one that ends in irrelevance, and one where we finally become the campus influence we were meant to be.What's pushing us toward the wrong path isn't what most counselors think.And fixing it will require a shift few are talking about.Stop being helpful. Start being undeniable.********Join our new Skool for School Counselors community ********Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ********All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personnel is coincidental. Details have been altered to protect privacy. This work is part of the School for School Counselors body of work developed by Steph Johnson, LPC, CSC, which centers role authority over role drift, consultative practice over fix-it culture, adult-designed systems and environments as primary drivers of student behavior, clinical judgment over compliance, and school counselor identity as leadership within complex systems.

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 graphsWhat actually counts as meaningful data in a real school settingSimple reflection questions I use to spot trends and changing needsHow I know when it's time to adjust groups, lessons, or interventionsWhy January is more about course correction than evaluationHow my own energy and workload often point to important patternsReflection 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/podcastJoin 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:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors...

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Happy January! Today we are talking all about Boom Cards and answering a question I get asked often. Are Boom Cards still relevant in school counseling today? I first started using Boom Cards in 2020 during the shift to virtual learning. Fast forward to now, and the answer is still a resounding yes. Boom Cards are absolutely relevant and incredibly useful across all tiers of support. Boom Cards are interactive digital flashcards that help students practice skills and learn new concepts in a fun and engaging way. They are flexible, easy to use, and can be adapted for in-person or virtual settings. Here are a few ways to use Boom Cards across all three tiers. Tier 1 classroom lessons Boom Cards are a great addition to class lessons. They can be used as a standalone lesson, such as a Meet the Counselor activity, or as a supplement to an existing lesson. They work especially well as a review activity at the end of a lesson, such as bullying prevention or friendship skills. Boom Cards can be posted in Google Classroom or screen-shared during virtual lessons. Tier 2 small groups Boom Cards are an excellent engagement tool for small groups. You can divide students into teams and have them work through Boom Cards together to introduce or reinforce a concept. They also work well as discussion starters. For virtual small groups, Boom Card links can be shared ahead of time as homework to help bridge the gap between home and school. Tier 3 individual counseling Individual sessions offer the most flexibility when using Boom Cards. You can choose cards based on the specific skill or concern you are addressing. Students can play alongside you and talk through their choices and thought process, which provides great insight and encourages reflection. Boom Cards are a simple and effective way to enhance your existing counseling curriculum while keeping students engaged and motivated.   Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Boom Cards Super Bundle 5 Ways to Use Boom Cards in the Classroom How to Use Boom Cards in School Counseling 10 Reasons to Use Boom Cards in Your School Counseling Program Are Boom Cards Still Relevant Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!    

Most school counselors aren't ineffective.They're mis-measured.In this episode, Steph challenges one of the profession's most sacred assumptions and names something about her own work that most counselors wouldn't dare say out loud.This conversation explores what it means to do catalytic work in a system obsessed with finished products, and why that mismatch is costing counselors their confidence.*********************************Join the next-level conversation in my Substack.*********************************Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! *********************************All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personnel is coincidental. Details have been altered to protect privacy.This work is part of the School for School Counselors body of work developed by Steph Johnson, LPC, CSC, which centers role authority over role drift, consultative practice over fix-it culture, adult-designed systems and environments as primary drivers of student behavior, clinical judgment over compliance, and school counselor identity as leadership within complex systems. This work is part of the School for School Counselors body of work developed by Steph Johnson, LPC, CSC, which centers role authority over role drift, consultative practice over fix-it culture, adult-designed systems and environments as primary drivers of student behavior, clinical judgment over compliance, and school counselor identity as leadership within complex systems.

Caring is what makes you good at this job. It's also what puts you in the most danger.If you're a school counselor who still cares deeply about students, but you've noticed yourself feeling flatter, heavier, or more guarded than you used to- this episode is for you.You're still showing up. Still doing the work. But the caring itself has started to weigh on you, and you don't know why.In this episode, I talk about a kind of exhaustion that doesn't come from being busy or overwhelmed. It builds from sitting with hard stories, holding emotional weight, and being the safe place for everyone else inside a role that rarely offers closure or relief.This isn't about burnout.It's about the unspoken cost of compassion in school counseling.If you've ever thought, "Something feels wrong, but I don't know how to name it," this conversation will help make it make sense.*********************************Episodes I referred to:Ep. 87- Some of the Best School Counseling Advice I've Ever HeardEp. 180- The Question School Counselors NEVER Get AskedEp. 181- Why School Counselors Are So Tired (It's Not Burnout)*********************************Join the next-level conversation in my Substack.*********************************Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! *********************************All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personnel is coincidental. Details have been altered to protect privacy. This work is part of the School for School Counselors body of work developed by Steph Johnson, LPC, CSC, which centers role authority over role drift, consultative practice over fix-it culture, adult-designed systems and environments as primary drivers of student behavior, clinical judgment over compliance, and school counselor identity as leadership within complex systems.

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Alvin Lui, president of Courage is a Habit, to expose how the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) has systematically embedded DEI and gender ideology into K-12 counseling nationwide. We break down their investigative report that reveals how school counselors have transformed from reactive guidance counselors into proactive "social change agents" who work one-on-one with children—often keeping secrets from parents. Alvin explains the dangerous tactics of "language contamination," where terms like "anti-bullying," "mental health," and "safe spaces" are weaponized to push transgender ideology and critical race theory while silencing dissenting students and parents. This isn't just happening in blue states—it's a systemic problem in all 50 states, funded by mental health grants that parents unknowingly support through their tax dollars. Whether your kids are in public school or you know someone whose children are, this conversation is essential viewing. We discuss warning signs, the indoctrination pipeline, and most importantly, what parents can do right now to protect their children. This is about our kids' futures, and it's time to fight back. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction: DEI's capture of school counseling 01:30 - Meet Alvin Lui and Courage is a Habit 04:40 - From California to Indiana: education corruption everywhere 07:50 - How school counselors became "social change agents" 11:50 - The 80% mandate and one-on-one access to children 15:00 - Language contamination: using your vocabulary, not your dictionary 18:30 - Anti-bullying policies weaponized for trans ideology 23:00 - ASCA's radical position statements exposed 28:30 - Professional development: Southern Poverty Law Center training 31:00 - Behind Closed Doors: infiltrating ASCA events 34:00 - The mental health Trojan horse 38:30 - Keeping transgender secrets from parents 43:00 - The cycle: SEL → activism → violence → more "mental health" 46:30 - Warning signs and what parents can do NOW 48:00 - The opt-out form every parent needs to file RESOURCES:

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Alvin Lui, president of Courage is a Habit, to expose how the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) has systematically embedded DEI and gender ideology into K-12 counseling nationwide. We break down their investigative report that reveals how school counselors have transformed from reactive guidance counselors into proactive "social change agents" who work one-on-one with children—often keeping secrets from parents. Alvin explains the dangerous tactics of "language contamination," where terms like "anti-bullying," "mental health," and "safe spaces" are weaponized to push transgender ideology and critical race theory while silencing dissenting students and parents. This isn't just happening in blue states—it's a systemic problem in all 50 states, funded by mental health grants that parents unknowingly support through their tax dollars. Whether your kids are in public school or you know someone whose children are, this conversation is essential viewing. We discuss warning signs, the indoctrination pipeline, and most importantly, what parents can do right now to protect their children. This is about our kids' futures, and it's time to fight back. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction: DEI's capture of school counseling 01:30 - Meet Alvin Lui and Courage is a Habit 04:40 - From California to Indiana: education corruption everywhere 07:50 - How school counselors became "social change agents" 11:50 - The 80% mandate and one-on-one access to children 15:00 - Language contamination: using your vocabulary, not your dictionary 18:30 - Anti-bullying policies weaponized for trans ideology 23:00 - ASCA's radical position statements exposed 28:30 - Professional development: Southern Poverty Law Center training 31:00 - Behind Closed Doors: infiltrating ASCA events 34:00 - The mental health Trojan horse 38:30 - Keeping transgender secrets from parents 43:00 - The cycle: SEL → activism → violence → more "mental health" 46:30 - Warning signs and what parents can do NOW 48:00 - The opt-out form every parent needs to file RESOURCES:

Send us a textI didn't disappear—I slowed down on purpose.In this episode, I'm sharing where I've been, why I took a step back, and what's changing in the new year. I've truly missed this space and the conversations we've had here, and this pause gave me time to get clear about what I want to focus on and how I want to do this work.Starting now, I'll be releasing one podcast episode a month—on purpose. Slower. Deeper. More intentional. Episodes you can actually sit with instead of rushing through.Most importantly, this episode is an invitation.I want to hear from:Teens: What do you need most right now when it comes to anxiety, stress, and feeling understood?Parents: What feels confusing, overwhelming, or lonely in supporting your teen?School counselors & educators: What support, tools, or conversations would actually make your work more sustainable?I don't want to guess what you need anymore—I want to listen.If this episode resonates, I'd love for you to:

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Alvin Lui, president of Courage is a Habit, to expose how the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) has systematically embedded DEI and gender ideology into K-12 counseling nationwide. We break down their investigative report that reveals how school counselors have transformed from reactive guidance counselors into proactive "social change agents" who work one-on-one with children—often keeping secrets from parents. Alvin explains the dangerous tactics of "language contamination," where terms like "anti-bullying," "mental health," and "safe spaces" are weaponized to push transgender ideology and critical race theory while silencing dissenting students and parents. This isn't just happening in blue states—it's a systemic problem in all 50 states, funded by mental health grants that parents unknowingly support through their tax dollars. Whether your kids are in public school or you know someone whose children are, this conversation is essential viewing. We discuss warning signs, the indoctrination pipeline, and most importantly, what parents can do right now to protect their children. This is about our kids' futures, and it's time to fight back. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction: DEI's capture of school counseling 01:30 - Meet Alvin Lui and Courage is a Habit 04:40 - From California to Indiana: education corruption everywhere 07:50 - How school counselors became "social change agents" 11:50 - The 80% mandate and one-on-one access to children 15:00 - Language contamination: using your vocabulary, not your dictionary 18:30 - Anti-bullying policies weaponized for trans ideology 23:00 - ASCA's radical position statements exposed 28:30 - Professional development: Southern Poverty Law Center training 31:00 - Behind Closed Doors: infiltrating ASCA events 34:00 - The mental health Trojan horse 38:30 - Keeping transgender secrets from parents 43:00 - The cycle: SEL → activism → violence → more "mental health" 46:30 - Warning signs and what parents can do NOW 48:00 - The opt-out form every parent needs to file RESOURCES:

In this conversation, Dr. Loretta Whitson discusses the vital role of advocacy in school counseling, emphasizing the importance of finding meaning and purpose in the profession. She highlights the significance of curiosity and personal connection in counseling, and offers advice for future educators and counselors. Dr. Whitson also reflects on the moral compass that guides leadership in education, underscoring the need for a supportive and collaborative environment for students. Takeaways Advocacy is essential in school counseling. Finding meaning in work enhances professional fulfillment. Curiosity drives effective counseling practices. Personal connections with students lead to better outcomes. Choosing a career aligned with personal beliefs fosters motivation. Collaboration among educators, counselors, and administrators is crucial. A balanced support system is necessary for student success. Counseling should address personal and social domains for effectiveness. Leaders should have a strong moral compass to guide their actions. Opportunities for students should be prioritized in counseling. Start your free Solution-Focused  3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge  You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link.  ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.  TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/ TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en  

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Happy January! Today I am sharing some of my favorite school counseling systems for success and how setting up simple systems can save you time, reduce stress, and help you better serve your students. In this episode, I am taking you inside one of my most used systems, what I call the counseling hub. This system keeps everything organized in one place and helps ensure no student falls through the cracks. What is the counseling hub The counseling hub is made up of two core systems that work together: a counseling caseload and a counseling log. When combined, they give you a clear snapshot of who you are serving, what services you are providing, and where students are in the counseling process. Counseling caseload Your counseling caseload is a living document that lists students you see regularly, such as those in small groups or individual counseling. I love using Google Sheets for this, but Excel works just as well. In this caseload, I track student names, basic information, and counseling type. I color code by group name or service type so I can quickly see who is in which group. I also include whether the student was referred and who made the referral. Additional sections I recommend include guardian contact status, whether permission slips have been sent and returned, and any important notes. This allows you to quickly provide updates to administrators or teachers and ensures students are not overlooked. Counseling log The counseling log is your daily record of services provided. I organize mine by month and week to make reviewing data easier. Each entry includes the date, student name, area of need, teacher, counseling type, and session length. I also track strategies used, activities completed, and brief notes about student progress or affect. Confidentiality is always a priority, so notes should be objective and professional. I also include a column for parent or guardian communication so I can easily see when and how I connected with families during the week. Why the counseling hub works When your counseling caseload and counseling log work together, you have a clear and efficient system that supports data tracking, communication, and advocacy. This hub allows you to stay organized, make informed decisions, and confidently share the impact of your work. If you are feeling overwhelmed by paperwork or struggling to keep everything straight, this system can be a game changer. Small systems lead to big clarity and better outcomes for both counselors and students. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Counseling Hub Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

Welcome back to the College Essay Guy Podcast. Today's episode is hosted by Tom Campbell, Community Manager & Senior Essay Specialist at College Essay Guy and a former admission officer at Pomona College and Holy Cross. We've polled the thousands of students who participate in our live webinars and courses and ask what they're favorite subject is, and consistently, STEM reigns supreme. By a lot. In this episode, Tom sits down with Jay Zhang, college counselor at College Essay Guy, to dig into the biggest questions students and families have about preparing for and applying to STEM programs. Together, they explore: What students should know about STEM coursework, rigor, and testing—and where there's more flexibility than most people realize How to think about majors, specialization, and which colleges to consider beyond the usual short list Common STEM student archetypes, including late starters, students unsure which direction to take, those in high-pressure STEM "bubbles," and students worried that elite summer programs are the only path forward And more.  Jay Zhang holds a B.S. in Microbiology from UCLA and an M.A. in School Counseling from NYU, and he's spent over a decade helping STEM students navigate selective admissions—especially within the UC system. He's also a former UCLA scholarship reader and interviewer, so he's seen exactly what works. Jay brings a strength-based, big-picture approach to STEM planning—and when he's not counseling students, you'll probably find him hiking at Crystal Cove or driving all the way from Orange County to LA for his haircut (hey, clearly, this is a man who knows his priorities). We hope you enjoy the episode.    Play-by-Play: 2:14 – What are some early memories of Jay and Tom learning STEM in school?  5:44 – Jay shares his background and where he grew up   7:55 – What are some high school courses that students interested in STEM could plan to take?  11:33 – What should STEM students know about standardized testing? 14:33 – How can students better understand different STEM pathways and majors?  17:55 – What are some lesser-known colleges or programs that students could explore?  24:03 – What are some strategies for broadening a student's college list? 30:01 – How can students balance prestige with selectivity and other factors that are important to them in finding the right fit? 32:46 – How can students explore diverse interests in STEM? 38:52 – What can high school juniors and seniors  do to show interest in STEM if they're just getting started? 46:11 – What helps students in competitive STEM "bubbles" move beyond comparison culture? 50:26 – How can students build on personal experiences that spark their interest in STEM? 53:30 – How important are prestigious summer programs for students interested in STEM? 59:25 – Closing thoughts   Resources: Firestarter Exercise What is STEM? STEM Majors  College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub  

Molly Kirwan talks about mental health and counseling programs at Hamilton Southeastern Schools

In California's Central Valley, a small K–8 school district is getting big results. Livingston Union School District in Merced County was recently recognized by the UCLA Center for the Transformation of Schools for outperforming the state in key areas — reducing chronic absenteeism and suspensions while improving student well-being. How did the district do this? By investing deeply in school counselors and pushing a comprehensive program that goes above and beyond what most schools offer in both academic and mental health support. Guests: Alma Lopez, school counseling coordinator, Livingston Union School District Vani Sanganeria, reporter, EdSource Read more from EdSource: How school counselors reduced chronic absenteeism and suspensions at a California school district Central Valley school counselor wins national award for ‘relentless' work with students Podcast: What it takes to be an award-winning counselor Education Beat is a weekly podcast hosted by EdSource's Zaidee Stavely and produced by Coby McDonald. Subscribe: Apple, Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Happy December. This is a fun but busy time of year as the semester wraps up and the holidays approach. Even if you are not teaching full lessons or running small groups this month, you will likely still have drop-in students who need support. December is a great time to add a seasonal twist to your counseling activities, and today I am sharing my favorite ideas to help you stay engaged, organized, and prepared. Countdown to Winter Break One of my favorite activities this month is a Countdown to Winter Break inspired by a childhood Advent calendar. This activity includes 20 different SEL tasks your students can complete as they count down to the holiday break. It works well for individual counseling sessions and for students who stop by unexpectedly. The variety of activities keeps students engaged and gives you structured tools to support them during an otherwise unpredictable month. Host a Counseling Holiday Party A Counseling Holiday Party is a fun and meaningful way to wrap up your small groups. Think of it like a celebration or graduation with a seasonal theme. You can schedule an all-day event where students who have participated in counseling throughout the semester come in for games, crafts, and connection. This creates a positive and memorable experience while highlighting the progress they have made. Data Check-Up December is also a helpful time to complete a mid-year data check-up. This allows you to review the students you have served, the lessons you have taught, and the progress that has been made so far. A mid-year check-up helps you advocate for your position, strengthens your end-of-year reporting, and gives you valuable insight as you plan for next semester. You can also display some of this information on a data wall so stakeholders can easily see the impact of your program. Self-Care Tips for the New Year As the semester winds down, it is important to reflect on your well-being. Here are a few simple strategies to help you feel more grounded and supported heading into January: Conduct a time audit to see how you are spending the minutes of your workday. This helps you identify where to add buffers so you feel less rushed and overwhelmed. Outsource tasks when possible. If you have an intern or student ambassadors, allow them to help with responsibilities and lighten your load. Join IMPACT, my school counseling membership program, to access resources, professional development, and ongoing support that help reduce stress and streamline your program.   Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Countdown to Winter Break Elf-Control Dress an Elf Snowman Goals Blog - How to Plan a Fun Counseling Christmas Party Needs Assessment End of Year Report Data Wall Blog - Favorite December School Counseling Activities  Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

Today our guests are Yvonne Culver, Director of School Counseling and Student Wellness, and Stephanie Hammond, Coordinator for School Counselors at Akron Public Schools. We talk about how they moved beyond "posters on the wall" by creating a district timeline that aligns life skills with academic pacing guides. They share how they engaged content teachers to build practical toolkits that integrate character development into daily lessons without adding more work. They highlight the critical need for patience in implementation and how to use data for support rather than compliance. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Those hallway TikTok routines are saying something, school counselor- and it's not what you think.In this episode, we decode what those repeated dance loops reveal about belonging, status, and the adolescent brain. You'll learn how synchronized movement functions as a social signal and why these micro-performances can be early indicators of connection, pressure, or exclusion on your campus.If you've ever walked past a TikTok trend at school and wondered what you're really seeing, this episode gives you the insight you've been missing.*********************************Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! *********************************All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personnel is coincidental. Details have been altered to protect privacy.

In this compelling follow-up conversation, I welcome back Jonathan Cogburn, a licensed marriage and family therapist from Texas, to explore a nuanced conservative perspective on mental health services in schools. While we've covered many concerns about ideological overreach in school counseling on this podcast, Jonathan makes a thoughtful case for why certain levels of mental health intervention are not just appropriate but indispensable in our current educational landscape.We dive deep into the McKinney-Vento Act and its implications for students experiencing homelessness - a critical issue that most therapists haven't even heard about. Jonathan shares his extensive experience working with behavioral threat assessment teams and reveals surprising data about successfully prevented school attacks. We explore how schools can create positive cultures that prevent violence upstream, the proper boundaries between school support and parental roles, and why some vulnerable student populations desperately need these services.This conversation challenges us to think beyond binary positions about school mental health services, examining what a "just right" balance looks like that serves students while respecting parental authority and avoiding ideological indoctrination.Jonathan Cogburn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in West Texas who currently works for an agency that provides a variety of support to school districts in his area  In that role he delivers state-required mental health training to districts, supports rural school counselors and homeless student liaisons, and co-leads a team of licensed professionals and school counselors that respond to crises and disasters. Follow Jonathan @SystemicTexism on X or on Substack.MAKE SURE YOU'RE FOLLOWING THIS PODCAST ON ANY PLATFORM OTHER THAN SPOTIFY. Spotify removes episodes for containing copyrighted music, even though I have a license to use my theme song, Half Awake by Joey Pecoraro. It's been a huge pain; I'll release an episode explaining this soon. In the meanwhile, find this podcast on your platform of choice starting here.  [00:00:00] Start [00:02:45] Defining McKinney-Vento and Student Homelessness [00:05:40] Unaccompanied Youth and School Support Systems [00:08:50] Mental Health Professionals' Role in Identifying Homeless Students [00:14:10] Student Leadership Summit and Success Stories [00:18:10] Association of Mental Health Professionals Conference Recap [00:19:45] Detransition Language Discussion [00:23:05] Values and Ethics in School Mental Health Services [00:29:45] Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Explained [00:33:00] Voluntary vs. Imposed Therapy for Students [00:40:13] Problems with Suicide Awareness Campaigns for Children [00:46:00] Overmedicalization and the Origins of Family Therapy [00:51:00] Family Therapy's Historical Role and Modern Challenges [00:55:00] Appropriate Levels of School-Based Intervention [01:04:30] Behavioral Threat Assessment Overview [01:35:30] Restoring School Function and ReadinessROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Now featuring 24/7 personalized AI support implementing the tools with RepairBot! Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month.PODCOURSES: use code SOMETHERAPIST at LisaMustard.com/PodCoursesTALK TO ME: book a meeting.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission. ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

October hits different, doesn't it? One week you're flying high after a student breakthrough, and the next- you're wondering if you can even make it to Friday.In this episode, I'm talking about the rollercoaster of school counseling: why it feels impossible to stay grounded this time of year, what's really fueling the highs and lows, and three sanity-saving ways to keep your footing when everything around you feels like too much.We'll get real about the myths we've bought into (like thinking we're supposed to “fix” everything or perfectly follow the ASCA model) and what it actually looks like to stay centered when the job gets heavy.If you've been questioning whether you're cut out for this work… this conversation might change how you see yourself (and the season you're in).**********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

Raquel Rose is the founder of the Little Rose Shop and is our guest on this episode. In addition to running her own business, Raquel is a wife and the mother of one girl and three boys. Growing up, she liked all sports, especially basketball. She tried to make the basketball team in college, even as a walk-on, but didn't make it. Raquel and her friend tried out for the rugby team and made it. She recalls her experiences as a rugby player. Even though she didn't make the basketball team, Raquel's experience with getting on the rugby team taught her that your plan is not always God's plan. She learned that God provides other opportunities. At age 21, Raquel found out that she was pregnant and shares the feelings she had at that time in her life. It was at Mass, during the consecration of the Eucharist, that Raquel thought she was a failure but felt the deep love Jesus had for her. She explains what she experienced at this life-changing time in her life. Raquel also found acceptance from her parents and the few friends she confided in. Her experience at Mass and with the Eucharist caused a powerful “reconversion” in her faith journey and her life would be forever changed. As a single mother, Raquel began coaching and observed that while the drive to win and achieve success is common in sports, she found and emphasized that sports also provide opportunities for personal development.   Raquel started to make items to help remind her to pray often. She also made things to keep her little daughter busy and quiet during Mass. This led to her founding the Little Rose Shop. Raquel eventually got married and had more children. She launched herself into being a faithful wife, full-time mother and successful business owner. Raquel explains the mission of her business and what the Little Rose Shop offers. She holds a master's degree in School Counseling and applies her knowledge and faith to the development of the products at the Little Rose Shop. Raquel talks about the how the “Ignatius Examen” was corroborated by her counseling studies as a great way to reduce anxiety and depression in life. Raquel also talks about how St. Thérèse of Lisieux is important to her. Although the Little Rose Shop is predominantly geared toward moms, Raquel discusses how the website offers a few things for men. She also suggests that men can find gifts to help uplift the woman in their lives. Raquel talks about how sports can help children learn healthy virtues and relationships, sporting events can also bring families together. Raquel ends by encouraging listeners to say “yes” to God all the time, even when it's difficult. Her initial “yes” to God has brought much fruition into her life: a great marriage, family, and a thriving business. Raquel's life is a great example of Romans 8:28: We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. Links: Little Rose Shop: Catholic Christian gift and book shop for moms, kids, and baby The Eucharist | USCCB The Daily Examen - IgnatianSpirituality.com St. Thérèse of Lisieux: The Little Flower Who Showed Us the Way of Love – Catholic Online News   #catholicsports, #littleroseshop, #trustingod, #godneverfails

  In today's episode, I'm joined by my long-time colleague, and our Chief People Officer here at CEG, Sandy Longworth. Sandy has worked as a therapist, a researcher, college counselor — among other things — and has spent years studying the role that narrative storytelling plays in how teens develop their identities.  Important note: While Sandy trained as a therapist, and we do talk a lot about therapy in our conversation, I want to make clear that I do not hold that college counseling and essay coaching — or what we do at College Essay Guy — to be therapy. It isn't. As college counselors and essay coaches — and I'm speaking about us as a profession here — we help students discover the skills, qualities, values, and interests they'll bring to a college campus… and then express those parts of themselves in writing.  Having said that, when I was first introduced to Narrative Therapy in 2012, I was struck by how some of its techniques — like reframing, for instance, which involves finding alternate perspectives on a set of events, something sometimes called “re-storying” — overlap with some of the things that happen in essay coaching sessions… and that's the territory Sandy and I explore in this conversation.   In this episode, Sandy and I get into:  How adolescence is a key time for identity development, how this process unfolds and why it's so significant for personal statements What is narrative identity theory and how do our stories shape who we think we are and can be?  How can narrative therapy techniques help students develop and showcase these qualities? What are some narrative therapy exercises students can use to reflect on their experiences and write authentically? And more   Sandy Longworth is a proud first-generation college graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison who earned her M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University, completed her doctoral coursework in Child and Family Studies from UW-Madison, and completed her School Counseling certificate at Northern Illinois University.  There's a little more to her bio, but I'll let her share that with you directly — hope you enjoy.    Play-by-Play: 3:05 – Sandy shares her background and some of her roles and identities  9:46 – Why is adolescence such a key time for identity development, and how does that connect to the personal statement?  12:20 – What role does narrative storytelling play in how students think about and develop their identities?  24:26 – How can narrative therapy techniques help students develop and showcase these qualities in their college application? 39:32 – What are some practical ways counselors and students can bring narrative therapy techniques into the personal statement process? 41:34 – Sandy leads Ethan through a narrative exercise 53:41 – Ethan and Sandy share impact and reflections 1:01:16 – How could narrative therapy ideas inform a montage-style essay? 1:10:10 – What does Sandy love about this work?  1:13:32 – What resources are available to learn more about narrative therapy? 1:16:15 – Closing thoughts    Resources: The Dulwich Centre The Values Exercise CEG's College Admission Nutrients (aka The Great College Application Test) College Essay Guy's Personal Statement Resources College Essay Guy's College Application Hub  

What if you could give students a taste of real-world careers in just the time it takes to sip a pumpkin spice latte? ☕️ In this episode of our Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program series, we're talking about the power of Micro-Mentoring with Local Professionals.Instead of a full-day career fair that leaves you drained, micro-mentoring offers short, meaningful connections between students and community members. Think of it as a career espresso shot—small, energizing, and packed with impact.We'll share:Simple formats for in-person or virtual mentoring sessionsHow to invite busy professionals with a time-friendly askInteractive ideas to make each session engaging and memorableWays to collect quick data and showcase impactHow this idea positions you as a leader and connector in your school communityIf you're ready to add some fall flavor to your career readiness efforts and brew up stronger community partnerships, this episode will inspire you to make micro-mentoring part of your school counseling recipe.

In this special episode Claire de Mézerville López welcomes recent IIRP alumni, Matthew Leaf and Victoria Torres, to the Restorative Works! Podcast.   Matthew and Victoria are experienced professionals in education. They join us to share practical strategies and personal stories that highlight how restorative practices transform school culture. From greeting students at the door by name to creating intentional spaces for connection, Matt and Victoria reveal that fostering a sense of belonging isn't about one single action—it's “a restorative way of being.” They discuss how mutual respect, authenticity, and empathy help both students and educators thrive, and why separating “the deed from the doer” is essential in addressing mistakes without shame.  The episode also explores how educators can become “the greatest cheerleaders” for their students, invite families into the process, and model lifelong learning. Both guests share advice for graduate students and education leaders: listen to understand, remain curious, and never underestimate your power to make a lasting impact.  Matthew is the assistant principal of Crew and Culture at Four Rivers Charter Public School in Greenfield, Massachusetts, where he is also a founding faculty member. He received his Master of Science in Restorative Practices with a specialization in Education from the IIRP this July. Matthew and his wife are recently empty nesters who enjoy time with their dog and spending time outdoors.    Victoria is a dedicated school counselor practicing in Pennsylvania and also maintains a private therapy practice. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Cedar Crest College and a Master of Education in School Counseling from Lehigh University. She recently completed her coursework for a Master of Science in Restorative Practices with a specialization in Education, along with a graduate certification in facilitation for healing trauma from the IIRP. She and her husband recently celebrated their 12-year wedding anniversary and have two children; they enjoy spending time outdoors and exploring the world around them.   Tune in to hear how proactive and responsive circles deepen relationships, how consistent processes build trust, and why curiosity can be the key to understanding behavior rather than reacting to it. 

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies.In this episode of School Safety Today, Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Dr. Melissa Mariani to explore school bullying prevention strategies, highlighting whole-school approaches, early intervention, and the power of positive climate in creating safer learning environments.KEY POINTS:Bullying erodes both physical and emotional safety, affecting school and community culture.Prevention, intervention, and post-vention require a whole-school, systemic approach.Positive climate, early warning signs, and supportive adult relationships are critical.Melissa Mariani, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Counselor Education, specializing in School Counseling. Dr. Mariani's research and scholarship focus on student success, school climate, school counseling interventions, outcome research, school safety and crisis response, and collaboration between higher education and K-12 institutions. Throughout her career, Dr. Mariani has served as a Project Manager for three Elementary and Secondary School Counseling grants, where she played a pivotal role in assisting various districts in the development, implementation, and maintenance of comprehensive school counseling programs based on the American School Counselor Association's (ASCA) National Model. Dr. Mariani regularly provides professional development and training to school staff on a wide range of topics. Dr. Mariani is a lead researcher and national trainer for the Student Success Skills curriculum (www.studentsuccessskills.com) and co-developer of SSS for SEL Success. She also co-authored the book Facilitating Evidence-Based, Data-Driven School Counseling: A Manual for Practice.

Ever walked out of an “advocacy meeting” with your admin and thought, Is anything ever going to change?You brought the data. You showed the charts. You quoted the position statements. And still, you walked away with the same ridiculous caseload, or worse- another responsibility placed on your shoulders.All that effort doesn't move the needle. It just keeps you running in circles.In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, I'm grading advocacy as it stands in our profession right now... and let's just say the report card isn't pretty.I'll unpack why the version of advocacy we've been handed sets us up to fail, the traps that keep us stuck shouting into the void, and four strategies that actually move the needle.If you've ever wondered why “advocating harder” hasn't worked for you (and what you can do differently), this episode is your permission slip to stop playing small and start leading with influence.References (Annotated)American School Counselor Association. (2017, December). Advocating for your school counseling program using visibility strategies [Online newsletter]. Advocacy Everyday. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/newsletters/december-2017/advocating-for-your-school-counseling-program-usin?st=njThis piece includes ASCA's suggestion to print business cards and introduce yourself with the correct title, examples of the “visibility” strategies counselors are told to use.American School Counselor Association. (2019). ASCA National Model: A framework for school counseling programs (4th ed.). Author. The central framework promoted by ASCA, often positioned as the path to respect and clarity for the profession.American School Counselor Association. (2019). The school counselor and ratios [Position statement]. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/About-School-Counseling/Position-Statements/ASCA-Position-StatementsStates the well-known 250:1 ratio and is often used by counselors in advocacy conversations with administrators and policymakers.American School Counselor Association. (2019). The school counselor and the role of the professional school counselor [Position statement]. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/About-School-Counseling/Position-StatementsOutlines the 80/20 direct vs. indirect services expectation, another widely circulated talking point in counselor advocacy.American School Counselor Association. (2023, July–August). Advocating for the ASCA National Model. ASCA School Counselor Magazine. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/Magazines/July-August-2023/Advocating-for-the-ASCA-National-ModelReinforces the idea that promoting the Model itself is advocacy, often suggesting visibility strategies like correcting titles or distributing materials.Fisher, R., Ury, W., & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to yes: Negotiating agreement without giving in (3rd ed.). Penguin Books. Classic text on principled negotiation. In this episode, it supports the idea of “interest-based framing”- aligning your advocacy with campus goals, not rigid positions.Lewicki, R. J., Barry, B., & Saunders, D. M. (2020). Negotiation (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education. Contemporary negotiation and organizational change research. Cited here for the evidence that small, repeated asks layered over time create lasting change.*********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mas

Brandy Samuell - Student Needs for Mental Well-Being, Dangers Associated with AI for Mental Care, and the Role that Technology Can Play in Supporting Student Mental Health When It Supports Human Connection. This is episode 783 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Brandy Samuell, M. Ed., is a seasoned educator with an impressive 32-year career dedicated to public education. Her extensive experience encompasses roles ranging from classroom teacher to assistant superintendent, covering various educational settings, including charter, rural, suburban, urban, and virtual schools.  Brandy's expertise spans general education, special education, mental health support, and school turnaround. Currently serving as the Director of Mental Health and Related Services at eLuma, Brandy holds a bachelor's degree in business administration in Marketing from Texas Tech University (1989) and a Master of Education in School Counseling from Texas Christian University (2002). Complementing her educational background, Brandy has completed post-Master's work in Educational Diagnostics and Educational Leadership from the University of the Southwest.   Certified in Critical Incident Stress Management, she has successfully managed multiple school-related crises and provided crisis management and response training for school staff and community-based first responders. While Brandy possesses a broad scope of knowledge and interests, most of her career has been dedicated to supporting students' emotional and behavioral needs and managing, coaching, and developing staff.   Beyond her professional commitments, Brandy finds solace in outdoor activities, spending time with her animals, and tending to her yard during her leisure time. Our focus today is talking about Student Needs for Mental Well Being, Dangers Associated with AI for Mental Health Care, and the Role that Technology can Play in Supporting Student Mental Health When It Supports Human Connection. Awesome discussion! So much to learn and think about! Thanks for listening! Thanks for sharing! Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it.  Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Connect & Learn More: https://eluma.com/ https://www.facebook.com/elumatherapy/ https://x.com/eLumatherapy https://www.linkedin.com/company/elumatherapy/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHurmK6cjNlpwp_hr48VDwQ BSamuell@elumatherapy.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandy-samuell-m-ed-98b52a73/ Length - 54:23

What if the tools you've been told to use as a school counselor are actually working against you?In this highlights reel, I'm recapping eight of the field's most popular practices and giving you the real verdict on each.You'll hear the truths nobody disputes, the traps that keep counselors spinning their wheels, and the takeaways you can actually use on a real campus. I'll even hand you the one-liners and micro-actions you can take straight into your next meeting.But this isn't just a recap. It's a truth bomb episode. By the end, you'll know what to keep, what to ditch, and how to defend those choices when the pressure to “do more” shows up.Hit play and let's level up.*********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️**********************************All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personnel is coincidental. Details have been altered to protect privacy.

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/podcastJoin 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:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

Start your free Solution-Focused  3-day conversation training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge  In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher discusses the importance of maintaining curiosity in educational and counseling settings. She explores the barriers that prevent individuals from engaging fully in the solution-focused approach and emphasizes the need for patience and genuine curiosity when interacting with students and clients. Cher also shares her personal journey with the RAMP program, highlighting the challenges and insights gained along the way. You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link.  ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.  TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/ TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en  Tip Jar:  Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Curiosity and Barriers 02:29 The Journey of Becoming a Recognized School Counselor 08:14 The Importance of Staying Curious 15:26 Empowering Through Curiosity 20:28 Updates on the RAMP Journey

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today's episode features Summer Summit presenter Bradford, a seasoned school counselor from Chattanooga, TN. Bradford has six years of school counseling experience, teaches weekly at his church, and recently served as an adjunct professor. He's passionate about building strong student relationships, and he's also excited about incorporating new tech into his counseling program. Summer Summit Replay Access Did you miss Summer Summit? It's not too late! When you join IMPACT, my monthly membership for school counselors, you'll get access to all of the Summer Summit session recordings, along with PD hours. Sarah's session is one you don't want to miss. She shares how nervous system regulation supports executive functioning and practical tools to apply these strategies in your life and with students. In this episode, Bradford shares how he's been using AI tools like Canva and Gemini to enhance classroom lessons and plan more efficiently. Whether it's creating engaging visuals or generating lesson ideas, Bradford explains how AI can be a time-saving support, not a replacement, for your work. In this episode, we discuss: How Bradford uses Canva's AI tools to create engaging classroom visuals Why Gemini has become his go-to for brainstorming classroom lesson ideas A real-life example of when an AI lesson didn't go to plan—and how it became a teaching moment The importance of specificity when using AI tools How AI can support 1:1 student session planning Bradford's current schedule and how he prioritizes visibility and connection with students Advice for new counselors on building student trust through presence and relationships Bonus: Free Live Training This July! School is starting soon, and I'm offering a free live training on how to use a Meet-the-Counselor lesson to connect with students and advocate for your role! You'll get a PD certificate and a ready-to-use lesson. I'll be sharing my favorite activity, organization tips, and strategies for using the lesson to build relationships with both students and faculty. Join us July 21 or 22! Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT LIVE Free Training Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube Connect with Bradford: Instagram More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!    

July 7, 2025 | Dr. Adam Wilson Dr. Adam Wilson, Associate Professor of Counseling and Director of the School Counseling Mental Health...

Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! This week, I'm sitting down with Elissa Hughes, a middle school counselor who shared a standout presentation during Summer Summit. If you didn't get a chance to attend live, don't worry—Summer Summit recordings are available inside the IMPACT membership, along with PD certificates and hundreds of other school counseling resources. Elissa Hughes is a middle school counselor with experience at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She is a member of her school's attendance committee, focusing on tiered supports, student engagement, and family communication. Elissa is passionate about creative, practical strategies that build positive habits, foster resilience, and strengthen connections between schools and families. She is a certified RYT-200 yoga instructor with additional training in children's yoga and enjoys weaving mindfulness into her work to support student well-being. She holds a Specialist degree in Professional Counseling, a Master's in School Counseling, and a double major in Psychology and Sociology. In today's episode, Elissa walks us through how her team approached improving attendance this school year through a tiered, relationship-driven strategy—and saw real results. In this episode, Elissa shares: Tier 1 Strategies: A fun, low-effort incentive program involving 7th period attendance tracking and Dairy Queen Blizzard rewards (yes, Dairy Queen donated them!). Teachers submitted attendance data daily, and one class per grade level was rewarded with a treat. Tier 2 Support: A more individualized approach focused on understanding student and family challenges around attendance. Elissa discusses the importance of genuinely getting to know students, building trust, and having honest conversations with families to problem-solve together. She walks through common barriers like anxiety, transportation, trauma, and basic needs, and how to respond with empathy and actionable support. Results: Their school's chronic absenteeism rate dropped significantly within just one year. Elissa credits this to consistent team collaboration, community involvement, and a mindset focused on connection over compliance. Elissa also shares: What her daily schedule looks like as a middle school counselor, including mindfulness groups, classroom lessons, and flexible student support Her team's collaboration with counselors, a social worker, and a family engagement coordinator, and plans to integrate PBIS more deeply next year Practical tips for embedding student wellness practices throughout the school day Advice for New School Counselors:  "Always try to see things from another person's perspective and point of view." Elissa reminds us that the foundation of strong counseling work is empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to learn from the lived experiences of others. If you loved this conversation and want to explore more practical tools like these, be sure to join the IMPACT membership. You'll gain access to every Summer Summit session recording, PD certificates, monthly resource drops, and a supportive community of school counselors like you. Don't miss out! Want access to this session and more? Join the IMPACT membership to get all Summer Summit replays, monthly PD trainings, downloadable resources, and a community of fellow school counselors. Resources Mentioned:   Join IMPACT   Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube Connect with Elisa: Instagram TikTok Facebook - Not Your Average School Counselor   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

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 transformationalReal-world examples of using data to advocate for your time and impactHow Cassie reduced non-counseling tasks with support from adminWays to create buy-in from teachers, parents, and district leadersPractical 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.

You followed the model. You tracked the data. You did everything “right.”So why does it still feel wrong?In this episode, we talk about how school counseling's best intentions became a trap, and what to do when the map you were given stops working.If you're tired of measuring your worth by minutes and metrics, this one's for you.Mentioned in this episode:Episode 4, "Your Data Does Not Define Your Worth as a School Counselor"*********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️**********************************Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.Hang out in our Facebook groupJump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)Join the School for School Counselors MastermindThe Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Shattered to Mosaic: All the While Trusting God and walking with Jesus by Cynthia Kaitfors-Smith Amazon.com Newlifeinjoy.com I found after leaning on the Lord through grief and loss there truly is JOY after the storm. There is so much in life to celebrate through the word of God, the Joys and the Rainbows of our lives. I am a Christian gal, with the gift to gab, wonderful imagination, and a creative spirit. I would daydream my way through the school day. I was born and raised in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, I earned my BA in Psychology and MS in Marriage Family Therapy and a credential in School Counseling. Through my education, strong faith, trust in God, I healed from betrayal and divorce. As I grew in my personal relationship with Jesus Christ, I realized the importance of being more than a luke-warm Christian.

What if the key to transforming your school culture is as simple as celebration and storytelling? In this energetic episode of Aspire to Lead, Josh Tovar, veteran principal and host of the Para #Ganas Podcast, joins me to share how his relentless positivity, powerful use of social media, and commitment to daily recognition have redefined leadership on his campus. We dive into practical ways administrators can build a culture of belonging, why telling your school's story matters, and how leaders can maintain joy and longevity in a demanding profession. Whether you're feeling the weight of burnout or looking to bring fresh energy to your school community, Josh brings the passion and purpose to reignite your why. About Josh Tovar: Josh Tovar, a proud son of Virginia and Jesus Tovar, was born in Cd. Juarez, Mexico, and immigrated with his family to El Paso, Texas in the late 70s. After challenging years in high school, he joined the US Marine Corps as an 0811 artilleryman. His military service allowed him to serve his country while attending UTEP, where he earned a degree in History and a Minor in Education. As a public educator, Josh has worked at 13 schools, from elementary to university level. He holds a Masters in School Counseling and Administration from Sul Ross State University, as well as a Masters in History from UTEP. Currently, he serves as the Principal at Memorial Pathway Academy in Garland ISD, Texas. Throughout his career, Josh has harnessed the power of social media to promote positive student achievements and enhance school culture. His commitment to “connections before content” aligns with Ryan Scott's philosophy, recognizing the importance of meeting students where they are through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (now X), Periscope, and Snapchat. Under his leadership, Socorro High School saw significant improvements, including an increase in the graduation rate and state distinctions. Josh's understanding of social media's impact underscores its value in education and community engagement. Follow Josh Tovar Twitter (X): https://x.com/MPA_GOJAGUARS  or https://x.com/JTSPOTLIGHTS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2bd2W0vKlYyVkzgWWtETFg — Magic Mind If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I'm super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon. A boost of energy Healthy Ingredients Easy to drink throughout the day EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 49% off: https://www.magicmind.com/ATLMM20 Use my code ATLMM20 in the checkout **Shipping is not included — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form...

Terrence and Eileen Houlihan are a dose of what we all need right about now! They are knowledgeable and so much fun! In this episode they share a portion of the expertise they offer during their coaching or professional development sessions. Get ready for school counseling wisdom related to the developing student brain, as well as information we should be sharing with teachers, and even some tidbits for parents! This episode is one you will want to repeat in order to get all of the pearls of wisdom!Check out Terrence and Eileen's websiteContact Terrence and EileenSign up for our freestanding Behavior Detour Conference

What you forget in May will come back to bite you in August. In this episode, we cover 5 school counseling mistakes that cause chaos when the year starts- and how to avoid them while you still can.You're running on fumes. May is chaos. And the last thing you want is another “end-of-year checklist.”But here's the truth: what you forget now will turn into a full-on mess in August.We're walking through 5 school counseling mistakes that seem small in May but turn into massive headaches when the new year hits. These aren't the obvious ones, either. We're talking about the subtle slip-ups that leave you scrambling, frustrated, or starting from scratch… again.You'll learn:What to jot down now that'll save your sanity in the fallWhy “data reflection” doesn't have to mean hours of spreadsheetsHow to close out the year with intention (even if you're over it)The one thing you're probably skipping that sets the tone for AugustA smarter, simpler way to stay sharp over the summer (without burning out)If you're a school counselor trying to finish strong without falling apart, this episode is for you.Mentioned in this Episode:School for School Counselors MastermindList of Closure Activities for Students*********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️**********************************Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.Hang out in our Facebook groupJump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)Join the School for School Counselors MastermindThe Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

You've been holding it in all year.The long hours, the invisible work, the constant pressure to stay calm while everything around you feels like it's unraveling... And now that the school year's winding down, one question keeps echoing louder than the rest:“Can I really do this again next year?”In this deeply personal episode, I'm not here to hand you a checklist or tell you what to do. I'm here as a fellow counselor, walking through the same hard questions- right alongside you.We'll talk about:The quiet signs it might be time to move on (even if nothing “dramatic” has happened)What staying with intention actually looks likeWhy redesigning your role could work- and when it absolutely won'tA gut-check framework that helps you make the call without spiralingAnd what to do if you feel like you don't even have a choice right nowIf you've ever felt like the only one who's wondering whether it's time to go, this episode will remind you: you're not alone- and you don't have to feel stuck.**********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️**********************************Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.Hang out in our Facebook groupJump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)Join the School for School Counselors MastermindThe Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

You love school counseling.You believe in the mission.But right now, it just isn't feeling right.If you've been wondering whether you're burned out, questioning if you can make it through another year, or feeling disconnected from the work you once loved... this episode is for you.In this episode, we talk about:Why April and May hit school counselors especially hardThe difference between burnout and professional fatigueFive evidence-based strategies to protect your energy, motivation, and heartWhy now is not the time to make big career decisionsForget about self-care clichés. We need to talk about real tools to help you finish strong- and remind you why you started in the first place.Whether you're tired, frustrated, or just not feeling like yourself at work...You're not alone. And you're not broken.Let's talk about how to keep showing up without burning out.**********************************⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We're doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️**********************************Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.Hang out in our Facebook groupJump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)Join the School for School Counselors MastermindThe Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Throughout April, we're featuring guest sessions with experts in the field, and today's episode is especially exciting. I'm joined by Laura Filtness, M.Ed., a seasoned school counselor with over 15 years of experience and a passion for using picture books to support young minds in elementary settings. Laura's belief in the power of storytelling shines through her work, and she's also the author of the upcoming book My Brain Is Like a Puppy, inspired by her beloved therapy dog, Boss. In addition to counseling, Laura teaches yoga and Pilates, assists clients in home organization through Help You Dwell, and enjoys tackling renovation projects at home. She currently lives in Knoxville, Tennessee, with her two dogs, Brooklyn and Bindu. In this episode, Laura shares why picture books are such an effective tool in school counseling, both for proactive lesson planning and reactive student support. She talks about how a sticky note with a book title and a few theme ideas often serves as her simple yet flexible lesson plan. Having two or three potential discussion directions in mind allows her to pivot based on how students respond. This approach gives students space to take ownership of the conversation while making lessons feel natural and engaging. Laura also opens up about the organization system in her counseling office. For years, she used topic-based book bins and included printed companion resources stored in large Ziploc bags. After relocating to a smaller portable office, she adapted by placing hardcover books on a bookshelf and keeping thinner paperbacks in bins. Her adaptable system ensures that everything is accessible and categorized by topic for ease of use during lessons. We also dive into the logistics and philosophy behind running book clubs. While Laura prefers not to hold small groups during lunch, she makes exceptions depending on the group's purpose. For example, a community-building group might work well during a “lunch bunch,” but more skills-based work is best saved for a designated small group time. Laura uses both chapter books and picture books and recommends series like those by Jory John, Todd Parr, Brenda Miles, Michael Ian Black, and the Way Past series. She shares that Scholastic is a great source for ordering multiple copies of books and encourages creativity, like using different titles in a picture book series. Laura also supports teachers through book clubs at the grade level. She often gifts teachers with books, especially ones she finds at thrift stores, and partners with the school librarian to display themed books during staff meetings. Her collaborative approach promotes a school-wide culture of literacy and social-emotional learning. When it comes to building your book collection, Laura suggests tapping into your librarian's expertise by submitting a wishlist at the beginning of the year. She encourages the use of public libraries, which often allow you to request specific books. Other great sources include thrift stores, your counselor network, and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which offers families one free book per month for a year. While YouTube read-alouds are a decent backup, she stresses that nothing beats reading a book aloud in person. To keep track of her extensive book collection, Laura uses a cataloging system in Airtable. Inspired by Laura Driscoll, she created a searchable database of over 700 books organized by grade, topic, and type. This makes lesson planning more efficient and ensures she's covering a wide range of student needs. You can find links to her Airtable in the show notes! For new counselors who are just beginning to integrate books into their lessons, Laura offers encouraging advice: don't overthink it—just bring a book into your lesson and start asking questions. Prompt students with things like, “Have you ever felt this way?” or “What do you think the character learned?” Let students guide the discussion and make personal connections. If you've inherited a library, take inventory so you can assess which topics are covered and where you may need to grow your collection. Toward the end of the episode, Laura shares her journey of becoming a published author. She discusses the publishing process and the inspiration behind her new book My Brain Is Like a Puppy, a heartfelt project born from her experiences with her late therapy dog. She offers insight into what it's like to submit to literary agencies and the steps it takes to bring a story to life. Picture books, she notes, are typically around 600 words and should be thoughtful, concise, and meaningful. This episode is full of practical takeaways and encouragement for counselors looking to bring more creativity and connection into their lessons through books. Laura's insights make it clear that picture books aren't just for young children—they're powerful tools for every age. Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube Connect with Laura: pawsitiveschoolcounselor.com  Big Book Database - Airtable Instagram  More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!