Afleveringen

  • 106. The Counseling Game Closet: Easy Group Games for Spring Energy25, 2:59:23 PM

    106. The Counseling Game Closet: Easy Group Games for Spring Energy25, 2:59:23 PM

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    🧠 What You’ll Learn:

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • 105. Spring Cleaning--Counseling Style

    105. Spring Cleaning--Counseling Style

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

    It’s that time of year again.

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

    In this episode, we’re talking about:

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

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    ✹ In this episode, you'll learn:

    Why spring is secretly the best time for small groups3 small group themes that make a big impact fastQuick ideas for activities that keep students engaged (and sane!)How to keep your groups manageable, meaningful, and even funScheduling tips and tricks that actually workHow to make the most of the time you’ve got (spoiler: short-term groups = big wins!)

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

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

    📝 Mentioned in this episode:

    Card Games:

    Coping Skills Card Game

    Resolving Conflicts Card Game

    Grit and Growth Mindset Card Game

    Friendship Skills Card Game

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    What We Cover:

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

    Remember Counseling Friends:

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

    What You’ll Learn:

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

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

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

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

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

    ✔ How to create a safety plan that actually helps

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    What You’ll Learn:

    ✔ Why your energy sets the tone for engagement

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

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

    ✔ Simple, no-prep activities to make learning interactive

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

    Resources Mentioned:

    Kindergarten Career Lessons Community Helpers and Tools

    Grade 1 Career Lesson Community Helpers and Their Skills

    Grade 2 Career Lesson Careers and Training Needed

    Grade 3 Career Lessons Multiple Intelligences

    Grade 4 Career Lessons Careers and Workspaces

    Grade 5 Career Lessons Career Interest Inventory and Research

    Grade 6 Career Lessons Career Research

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
  • 100. Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Look Back and A Look Ahead

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

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

    Inside This Special Episode:

    ✅ A heartfelt reflection on the journey to 100 episodes

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

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

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

    Here’s how to enter:

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

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

    Some of the episodes you all loved the most include:

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

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

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

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

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

    What’s Next? Get Ready for Even More!

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

    ✔ Solo episodes packed with actionable strategies

    ✔ Expert guests bringing fresh insights and game-changing ideas

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

    🌟 Upcoming topics include:

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

    đŸ”č Tier 2 Interventions That Actually Work – No fluff, just real strategies

    đŸ”č...

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

    🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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

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

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

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

    ✅ How to take care of yourself as a crisis responder

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

    🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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

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

    ✅ Why revamping your email signature can make you more accessible

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The truth about self-care that no one talks aboutWhy saying no is just as important as saying yesHow to build micro moments of care into your daily routineThe underestimated power of a snack drawer and hydrationHow to set emotional boundaries to protect your energyA simple daily practice to find joy in the ordinary

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

    📌 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

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

    ✹ Ready to Get Started?

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

  • 95. Mastering the Art of Small Talk in Counseling Sessions

    95. Mastering the Art of Small Talk in Counseling Sessions

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    Here’s what we’ll cover:

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

    Chit Chat Conversation Starters

    Roll and Respond Icebreakers

    Icebreakers for Everyone

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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

    Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

    ASCA NSCW Materials

    Get the free posters I talked about here.

    NSCW Activities For Kids

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    I’ll share practical tips to help you:

    ✅ Prioritize your most important tasks

    ✅ Batch your work to save time

    ✅ Set boundaries to protect your schedule

    ✅ Use tools and strategies to make your life easier

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

    What You'll Learn in This Episode:

    ✔ Why time management feels so hard for school counselors

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

    ✔ How to use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize your tasks

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

    ✔ Tools and strategies to simplify your workflow

    Resources Mentioned

    Atomic Habits

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    🎯 Why overcommitment is so common among school counselors

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

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    🎯 Wisdom from BrenĂ© Brown and Steve Jobs on boundaries and focus

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Emotional Phases of Counseling: From the excitement of starting out to the rejuvenation and reflection phases, learn how mentorship can help navigate the ups and downs of this career.7 Steps to Mentorship Success: Practical tips to foster trust, provide resources, celebrate milestones, and empower growth for both mentors and mentees.Pro Tips from Seasoned Mentors: Hear valuable advice from experienced counselors who’ve supported new professionals in the field.Using ASCA Standards: Discover how these guidelines can elevate mentorship and strengthen school counseling programs.
    Key Takeaways:Mentorship isn’t just about giving advice—it’s about listening, validating, and helping others find their way.Supporting new counselors can make a profound difference, both in their confidence and in the impact they make on students.Experienced counselors: Take the leap to guide someone new.New counselors: Don’t be afraid to ask for help—you’re not alone in this journey!

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

    www.summercounselorconference.com

    ASCA School Counselor Competencies

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

    Welcome to a special holiday episode of Counselor Chat Podcast!

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

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:A Meaningful Activity to Share: Discover an engaging group exercise using everyday items to teach the power of perspective and gratitude.The Power of the Giver’s Eyes: Hear a personal story from me that sheds light on why the intention behind a gift matters more than the gift itself.Holiday Stress Awareness: Understand how the holidays can affect students and staff differently and how to provide support during this time.Practical Takeaways: Ideas for implementing gratitude-focused activities in your school or team meetings.
    Key Takeaways:Value is in the eye of the giver—take a moment to appreciate the intention behind every gesture, big or small.The holiday season is a time to foster connection, gratitude, and reflection, even in the midst of stress.Small, thoughtful activities can spark meaningful discussions and help your team or students approach the season with empathy and perspective.

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Perks Membership

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

    Connect with Carol:

    TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

    Mentioned in this episode:

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

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

    · Counselor Chat Podcast

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

    We explore:

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

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

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

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

    Giveaway Details:

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

    Forward this episode to five colleagues and CC Carol ([email protected]).The first five listeners to send their emails will win!

    Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

    Cookie Bites by Julia Cook: Cookie Bites WebsiteCounseling Essentials Resources: Counseling EssentialsJulia’s New Book, I Am Vape: Learn more about vaping prevention for young students.School Visits and Workshops with Julia Cook: Email Julia at [email protected].

    Stay Connected:

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

    Final Thoughts:

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

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

    ï»żGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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