School Counseling Simplified Podcast

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am sharing three school counseling game changers. These are practical, actionable strategies that I have seen truly transform school counseling programs. They are simple, bite sized, and easy to implement right away to make your day to day feel more manageable. My goal is to give you one game changer for each tier of your counseling program so you can start making improvements across the board. Tier 1 Class Lessons One of the biggest game changers for Tier 1 is having a streamlined scheduling system for class lessons. In many schools, scheduling falls entirely on the counselor, which can quickly become overwhelming. Creating a clear sign up system removes that burden and makes the process much more efficient. You can use either Google Sheets or Calendly to set this up. With Google Sheets, start by looking at your own calendar and identifying when you are available to teach lessons. Be sure to block off time for planning, meetings, and lunch, and avoid scheduling during times that do not work well for you. List your available time slots in the sheet and share it with teachers. Teachers can then select a consistent time, such as Tuesdays at 1:00, which becomes their recurring lesson slot. You can then add these to your calendar for the entire year, making adjustments as needed for holidays or schedule changes. This eliminates constant back and forth communication and creates a clear, organized system. Calendly is a more automated option. You can input your availability, send the link to teachers, and allow them to book their own time slots. Calendly will automatically sync with your calendar and send reminders, making the process seamless for both you and your teachers. Tier 2 Small Groups The game changer for small groups is incorporating games. Student engagement and buy-in are essential, and games are a powerful way to help students feel comfortable, open up, and build rapport. Some easy options include discussion cards, Boom Cards, playing cards, and board games. These tools make sessions interactive while still supporting skill development. Tier 3 Individual Counseling For Tier 3, the biggest game changer is using data to guide your decisions. As school counselors, we provide short term, solution-focused support, which means it is important to track progress and measure outcomes. This can be done through behavior surveys sent to teachers and caregivers before and after sessions, as well as student self assessments. This combination of data gives you a well-rounded view of how the student is progressing across settings. At the end of a six to eight week cycle, this data allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of your interventions and make informed decisions about next steps for the student. These are three simple but powerful game changers that can make a meaningful difference in your counseling program at every tier. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT https://brightfutures-counseling.com/blogs/blog/5-strategies-for-stress-free-scheduling Data Collection Behavior Surveys Self-assessment Super Bundle School Counseling SEL Game Board Bundle 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Sonya, a school counselor and IMPACT member. In this episode, she shares practical strategies for running small groups, including how to focus on short term skill building so students can successfully return to class ready to learn. Sonya is a 2nd year school counselor at a title I elementary school in Gresham, OR. She has been in Oregon for 13 years but was born and raised in Lexington, KY. Sonya believes that the most impactful part of school counseling is connecting with families and inspiring students through restorative conversations and teaching the power of compassion and forgiveness. In her spare time, Sonya is always working on a jigsaw puzzle (she even has a puzzle library on her front porch!), tap dancing, hanging out with her dogs Sugar Bear and Bruce Wayne, playing chess and making everyone laugh as much as possible. Sonya would like to end this with her simple motto: life is a comedy, not a tragedy. We must remember that laughter is the best medicine. What do you love about school counseling? Sonya shares that the most rewarding part of her work is seeing the impact she has on students, both big and small. Even a brief 10 or 30 minute check in can make a meaningful difference. Whether students are repeating something they learned in a lesson or choosing to trust her with their feelings, those moments are what make the work so meaningful. What can you share with us about small groups? Sonya emphasizes that small groups are not meant to be a quick fix for behavior or an overnight solution. Instead, their value lies in the ability to reach and support many students at once. She currently runs about seven groups and aims to grow to ten or twelve so she can consistently serve students on her caseload each week. She also highlights the importance of boundaries and remembering that school is a place for learning. When students come to her room, she focuses on making the time effective by prioritizing meaningful skill building within a structured session. Scheduling can be one of the biggest challenges with small groups. Sonya recommends identifying times that students cannot miss, such as literacy or reading blocks, and working around those priorities. She uses Google Forms to gather teacher input and collaborates with them to find times that work for everyone. What is a day in the life for you? Sonya shares that this year, her kindergarten and first grade students need a high level of support, so she spends a significant amount of time working with those grade levels. Her day often includes phone calls with families, teaching class lessons, providing interventions, and attending Tier 2 and attendance meetings. She also creates a weekly news video for upper grade students, adding a creative and engaging element to her role. What advice do you have for new counselors? Sonya reminds new counselors that it is impossible to do everything, and there will always be a never ending to do list. It is important to stay grounded in your role and remember the purpose of your work. Students are at school to learn, and school counselors are there to provide short term, solution focused skill building to support that learning. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Delana, a school counselor and IMPACT member. I left our conversation feeling inspired and refreshed by her passion, her heart for students, and her commitment to creating a supportive and connected school climate. Delana lives with her husband Wesley and their three daughters, Salem, Caroline, and Dare, along with their two cats. She is a graduate of Calvary Christian School in King, North Carolina, where she now serves. After high school, she attended community college for two years before transferring to Lees-McRae College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education. She began her career teaching fourth grade in a rural public school. While teaching, she earned her master's degree in Language and Literacy from Salem College, the oldest all girls college in North Carolina. During this time, she also taught basic skills courses at a local community college in the evenings. After marrying her husband in 2008 and starting a family, she transitioned fully into the community college setting, where she worked for 15 years. One of her most meaningful roles there was in the adult high school program, where students completed online coursework to earn a high school diploma. In 2022, she felt called to support high school students at Calvary Christian School and shared her vision with her pastor. She went on to create the Student Success program, which has continued to grow over the past four years. Her initial goal was to improve school climate, support teacher appreciation, and help students prepare for life after high school, whether through trades or college. She later became a Youth Mental Health Coach to better support the personal needs of her students. This year, she also stepped into the role of Elementary Supervisor. In addition to her professional work, she coaches middle school girls basketball, and her family stays busy supporting their daughters' involvement in volleyball, basketball, and softball. Much of their life is centered around their family and the school community they love. What do you love about school counseling? One of Delana's favorite parts of school counseling is being a trusted adult that students can connect with. She works intentionally to make her office a safe and welcoming space. She uses connection cards as a way to build relationships with students, giving them an opportunity to share both positive moments and times when they need emotional support. What does school climate mean to you? Delana shares that school climate is not just students. It includes students, faculty, and When discussing school climate, Delana emphasizes that it is not just about students. It includes students, faculty, and families. Her goal is for every student to find at least one moment in their day that brings them joy. She believes that a strong school climate begins with supporting families. When families feel supported and trust that the school has their child's best interests at heart, they are more likely to stay engaged. Similarly, when teachers feel valued and supported in their work environment, they are better able to show up for their students. Every role within the school community contributes to the overall climate. What is a day in the life for you? Delana begins her day around 7:45 in the morning with car line, which she sees as an important opportunity to connect with students right away. She then spends the first hour of her morning visiting elementary classrooms to connect with teachers and offer support, whether that means providing supplies, encouragement, or simply being present. Throughout the day, she schedules a variety of lessons, including character education, digital citizenship for middle school students, and career exploration for eighth graders. She also teaches personal finance lessons to tenth graders and college and FAFSA preparation for eleventh and twelfth graders, helping students plan for their futures after graduation. What advice do you have for new counselors? For new counselors, Delana encourages adaptability and a willingness to keep learning, whether through reading, collaborating with others, or gaining new experiences. She emphasizes the importance of being open, transparent, and kind when communicating with parents, as honesty helps build trust. She also recommends the book The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace as a valuable resource for building positive relationships within a school community. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Book - The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace 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 expe

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Barbara, who after 40 years in the school setting now serves as a counselor mentor. With experience in both elementary and high school counseling, Barbara brings a wealth of wisdom to the conversation. In this episode, she shares her perspective on self love, meaningful connections with students, and the powerful role of classroom lessons in building relationships and preventing behavior concerns. After four decades of the gift of growing in her character building alongside learners of all ages and stages, Barbara Gruener now actively supports educators who are still in school doing the holy work of tenderly holding hearts and shaping the future for good. Her latest focus on self-love steps her way out of her comfort zone, where the real learning begins. Barbara and her husband live in Friendswood, TX, where they raised their three now-adult children. Her most recent blessing is being called Grammy. What do you love about school counseling? One of Barbara's favorite parts of school counseling is what she calls connecting by heart. She describes it as stepping into someone's story and saying, I have you. Tell me more. What is that experience like for you? She believes counselors have the opportunity to be a steady presence for students as they navigate their journeys. Sometimes that role looks like being a lighthouse that helps guide the way, and other times it is like serving as the rudder that gently helps steer the ship. Barbara emphasizes that connection extends beyond students. It also includes parents, teachers, administrators, and the broader school community. How do you manage class lessons at your school? When it comes to classroom lessons, Barbara believes engagement is key to preventing behavioral challenges later on. During her years in the classroom, she loved using puppets to enhance social stories and capture students' attention. She also highlights the importance of truly knowing your students. Understanding who enjoys participating and who may feel anxious about being called on allows counselors to make thoughtful accommodations. If counselors want to equip and empower students, Barbara encourages them to remain gently curious and take the time to get to know each child. Barbara also stresses the importance of pacing during lessons, especially when reading books with students. She believes that pausing to listen and reflect can be incredibly powerful. Sometimes the most meaningful moments in a lesson happen in the quiet spaces where students have the opportunity to process and share. What is a day in the life for you? Today, Barbara continues to support the counseling profession in many ways. She remains active in writing and has published three picture books, one chapter book, and one digital book. She also leads workshops, participates in author visits, writes blog content, and engages in other creative outlets. One of her recent areas of focus has been workshops centered on the Self Love Club, which she describes as a deeply meaningful and eye opening experience. What advice do you have for new counselors? For new counselors, Barbara offers heartfelt advice. She encourages counselors to go slow in order to ultimately go fast, recognizing that many days in the school setting can feel like triage. It is important to know when to close the door at the end of the day, go home, and replenish. She also reminds counselors to lean on teammates, community members, and the people who care about them so they can sustain their work without burning out. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT barbaragruenerauthor.com corneroncharacter.com 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Lacey, a school counselor and IMPACT member. In this episode, we are talking all about class lessons and the engaging formula she uses to keep students involved and excited about learning. Lacey Dixon is an enthusiastic educator that leads with positive intention while fostering a nurturing, growth-oriented inclusive environment for her school and community. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Innovation, a Masters in School Counseling, and a Masters in Instruction that has served her well as a seventeen-year education veteran and first-generation college student. This school year marked a turning point as she began her new journey as a first-year school counselor. Previously, she served as a secondary agriscience educator and FFA advisor, an ag relationship manager in the private sector and instructional leader at an intermediate school. Blending her love of teaching, and intuitive ability to build strong relationships with students, Dr. Dixon strives to create a learning environment where all students feel loved and welcomed from the moment they walk through their school doors. Cultivating social emotional intelligence and mindfulness among staff and students, continues to shape her everyday interactions and school initiatives for the promise of a better tomorrow. What do you love about school counseling? When asked what she loves most about school counseling, Lacey shares that she enjoys building relationships and having the opportunity to do something different every day. She works with students in grades four through six and teaches lessons within professional learning communities. She values incorporating social emotional learning into her lessons and is passionate about helping students feel loved and welcomed each day. How do you manage class lessons at your school? Lacey has developed a clear and engaging structure for her class lessons. She begins by gathering student input about what they enjoy, ensuring their voices are heard. Each lesson starts with a Smartboard open and includes morning movement such as dances or short videos to energize students. From there, she leads affirmations, inviting students to repeat statements like, "I belong in this classroom just as I am." Next, she introduces an activator, which may be a short video or a definition connected to the lesson objective. The class then moves into the main activity, often including a take home component to help students create meaning beyond the classroom. She closes with a reflection component to reinforce learning. Her lesson framework includes a physical activity, affirmation, activation, activity, and reflection. What does a typical day look like for you? In a typical day, Lacey balances lunch and bus duties, small groups, individual student sessions, and teaching class lessons three days per week. Each day brings variety and opportunities to connect with students in different ways. What advice do you have for new counselors? For new counselors, Lacey offers thoughtful advice. She encourages counselors to extend grace to themselves and their students. She recommends focusing on immediate priorities rather than trying to do everything at once. She also emphasizes the importance of having trusted colleagues or friends to lean on, as the role can be demanding and emotionally heavy. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Caitlin, a school counselor and IMPACT member, who brings incredible energy and creativity to her work. In this episode, she shares how she structures her classroom lessons, approaches classroom management, and implements unique strategies that help her build strong connections with students. Caitlin Wagner, is currently an elementary school counselor working in a low income, culturally diverse, title 1 school in Harrisburg, PA. She has been in school counseling for about 5 years. Prior to becoming a school counselor she worked in the clinical counseling setting as a case counselor and milieu manager at a partial hospitalization program for children and adolescents. Besides being a school counselor, she is also a mother of two young children, enjoys sports, and is as creative as possible. When asked what she loves most about school counseling, Caitlin shares that building connections with students and their families is the most meaningful part of her role. Whether in a school or clinical setting, she finds it incredibly rewarding to create a space where students feel safe, protected, and supported by a positive adult outside of their immediate family. She values being a consistent and encouraging presence in their lives. One practical strategy Caitlin uses to strengthen relationships is a get to know you form that she first implemented during a long term substitute position. She now uses this form with every student she works with, beginning in kindergarten. The form follows students as they move through the school, allowing her to remember important details and deepen connections over time. Caitlin also shares how she structures her classroom lessons. She has the flexibility to create her own schedule, which allows her to design a flow that best supports her student population. She is in each classroom every other week, and each class has a consistent day and time so students can rely on a predictable routine. For classroom management, she uses a simple behavior tracking system where she tallies specific behaviors and categorizes them as unexpected, expected, or super expected. She often frames expectations by asking students, how can we be our best effort givers, which encourages reflection and personal responsibility in a positive way. She emphasizes that she loves finding creative ways to connect her lessons to her students' real lives and interests. In describing a typical day, Caitlin shares that her mornings often begin by greeting students as they arrive for breakfast. From there, she may move into a parent, student, or team meeting. Depending on the day and the week, she teaches several classroom lessons and integrates small groups into her schedule as needed. She often ends her day with check ins and check outs for students who need additional support, ensuring they leave school feeling seen, encouraged, and supported. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Colleen, a school counselor and IMPACT member, who shares her journey from nursing school to school counseling and her passion for teaching students the coping skills she did not learn growing up. Colleen Mosley is a School Counselor in Long Island, New York. This is her fourth year at her current school. Previously, she worked as a School Counselor for four years in Northern Virginia. Before becoming a counselor, she served on the Leadership Team at a private school in Northern Virginia. Colleen is deeply passionate about equipping students with lifelong coping skills and believes that work is at the heart of why she became a School Counselor. What does Colleen love about school counseling Colleen shares that she loves being the person she did not have growing up. She finds it incredibly fulfilling to teach children skills they can use throughout their lifetime. What does Colleen love about individual sessions Because she sees all students weekly for classroom lessons, she is able to build strong rapport and positive relationships early on. When students come to her counseling room for individual support, there is already an established foundation of trust. How does she manage the logistics of individual sessions Colleen typically meets with students once a week for six weeks for approximately 20 minutes. She administers a pre-assessment during the first session and a post-assessment during the final session to measure growth and progress. A day in the life Colleen works with students in grades K through 8 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. She is available on Mondays primarily for crisis response. She teaches Social Emotional Learning lessons in 40 minute blocks for each classroom and schedules individual sessions as needed. When she is not teaching or counseling, she supervises lunch and recess or plans future lessons and school events. Advice for new school counselors Find a mentor you trust. Prioritize self-care. Join a cohort or a community such as IMPACT so you have support and resources readily available to make your job feel more manageable. As Colleen says, overdose on self-care so you can do your job most effectively! Do not forget, today and tomorrow I am hosting a free live training on how to enhance your individual counseling sessions and begin collecting meaningful data so you can feel confident and valued in your role. You will walk away with practical engagement strategies and simple data tracking tools you can start using right away. 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!

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!

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!

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I want to talk about a question that shows up in my inbox all the time. How do you stop constantly putting out fires and actually manage your limited time as a school counselor? So many counselors find themselves stuck in a reactive state. When you are constantly responding to drop ins, crises, and last minute needs, it can feel overwhelming and exhausting. My goal is to help counselors shift into a more proactive state where they can intentionally manage tier one interventions, small groups, individual counseling, and still handle the unexpected things that pop up. Today I am sharing a simple strategy to help you plan your time so you can get it all done. Start by identifying your big items. These are your classroom counseling lessons, your tier two small groups, and your individual counseling sessions. These big items should form the foundation of your schedule. When these are clearly planned and protected on your calendar, everything else becomes easier to manage. Next, think about the little items. These are random drop ins, quick check ins, and small fires that come up throughout the day or week. These will always exist, but they should not be running your schedule. Putting consistent effort into classroom lessons is one of the most effective preventative strategies you can use. When you are proactive at the tier one level, you will often see fewer referrals and fewer random drop ins over time. One practical strategy is to create a Google Sheet with your class lesson availability and have teachers sign up at the beginning of each month. You can use this same intentional scheduling process for your tier two small groups and individual counseling sessions. When these interventions are scheduled in advance, you have designated times to focus on them without feeling pulled in every direction. By using a referral based system and intentionally scheduling your tiered interventions, you may find that many of the random drop ins decrease because students are already receiving the support they need. To make this system work, there are three essential components. First, use a referral based system so you are not responding to every request in the moment. Second, use a sign on your door that clearly shows what you are doing and whether you are available. This helps students understand where you are and why you may not be able to meet immediately. Third, keep a notepad or memo sheet where students can write down that they stopped by and note the urgency of their concern. This allows you to follow up without disrupting your schedule. With a strong foundation and clear systems in place, you can move out of constant reaction mode and into a more intentional, sustainable way of running your counseling program. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Referral Forms 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 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!

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Happy January. Today I am sharing five small groups to start in January. While I always use referrals and data to form small groups by identifying areas of need, I also like to plan groups around intentional seasonal themes. For example, January is the perfect time to offer a goal setting group as students transition into the new year. Small groups are one of my favorite ways to support students. They allow me to serve more students at once, and students often feel more comfortable opening up in a group setting than in one-on-one sessions. Five Small Groups to Start in January Goal Setting This group helps students identify personal goals, explore what motivates them, and learn strategies to achieve those goals throughout the semester. Stress Management As academic expectations increase after winter break, many students experience higher stress levels. This group focuses on coping skills, emotional regulation, and stress reduction strategies. Growth Mindset This group teaches students how the brain works and why challenges help us grow. Students learn to reframe mistakes and develop perseverance through effort and practice. Conflict Resolution This group supports students in navigating friendship challenges by teaching communication skills such as using I statements and practicing conflict resolution through role-play scenarios. Self Esteem The new year is a great opportunity to focus on confidence building. This group emphasizes self-reflection, positive self-talk, communication skills, and personal goal setting. If you are looking for meaningful and effective ways to support students as the new semester begins, these small groups are a great place to start. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Stress Free School Counseling Goal Setting Group Stress Group Growth Mindset Group Conflict Resolution Group Conflict Resolution Group Self-Esteem Groups https://brightfutures-counseling.com/blogs/blog/january-small-groups 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Happy January. Today I am sharing one of my favorite trainings that I regularly present called 3 Secrets to Transform Your Counseling Program. This training is full of practical strategies that can help you increase your impact and gain the recognition your counseling program deserves. 3 Secrets to Transform Your Counseling Program Quick Organization Tip Assign colors to different categories on your calendar Color code recurring events such as lunch or recess duty and weekly meetings Use one color for individual student sessions Color code small groups based on topic Use a separate color for classroom lessons Secret One: Create a Stress Free Counseling Schedule Establish a crisis response team protocol Divide responsibility among multiple staff members so you are not responding to every crisis alone Identify the team members who support students during crises Create a clear protocol that outlines who is responsible for what and when This system protects your time while ensuring students receive timely support Secret Two: Use a Caseload Spreadsheet Create a caseload spreadsheet to track all students you serve Include students from classroom lessons, small groups, and individual counseling Google Sheets works well for easy updates and access Helps you stay organized and provide quick updates to administrators or teachers Secret Three: Create an End of Year Report Begin with the end in mind when collecting data Track how many students you served Track how many lessons you taught Track how much time you spent providing direct services Use this report to clearly showcase your impact to stakeholders This is one of the most effective tools for advocating for your role If you are looking for systems that bring clarity, confidence, and sustainability to your counseling program, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Stress Free School Counseling 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 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 another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Happy December. Today we are doing a throwback to one of my favorite episodes, all about three must-have data tools for individual counseling. Data collection does not have to be complicated or time consuming. Having simple systems in place allows you to track student progress, guide your sessions, and advocate for your role with confidence. In this episode, I am sharing my three go-to data collection tools for individual counseling and how to use them effectively. Self Assessments Self assessments are pre and post surveys that help you understand how students perceive their own counseling progress. Each question should align with the objective you are teaching during that session, which helps ensure your data is purposeful and meaningful. Questions should be written in age appropriate language and include clear directions at the top. Be sure to include the student's name and the date, and remind students that there are no right or wrong answers. Self assessments can be completed on paper or through a Google Form, which allows you to easily view results and identify trends. These assessments help highlight skill deficits and guide future instruction. Student Rating Scales Student rating scales provide quick insight into how students are feeling session to session. A simple one-to-ten scale works well, allowing students to color in or mark how they are feeling that day. Using large block fonts and visual elements can make this activity more engaging for students. Rating scales are typically completed at the start of each session and provide valuable data that is fast and easy to collect. Behavior Surveys Behavior surveys are sent to teachers and parents to gather information about student behavior across different settings. These surveys should include the topic being addressed, the student's name, the rater's name, the rater's relationship to the student, and the date. Behavior surveys are given at the start of services and again at the end to measure growth over time. Because students often behave differently at home and at school, input from both teachers and caregivers is essential. Google Forms work especially well for collecting and organizing this data. Using Your Data Once you have collected your data, it is important to use it intentionally. Data can be showcased on a data wall displayed in a high traffic area of the school to help bring awareness to the counseling profession and the services you provide. Data can also be used to create individual end of year reports and to drive instruction as you refine and improve your counseling programs. If you are looking for low prep, done-for-you assessments, be sure to check out my individual counseling curriculum. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Individual counseling super bundle 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!