Counselor Chat Podcast

Key Points Covered:

The Role of Data in School Counseling:

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

Types of Data School Counselors Can Collect:

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

Using Data to Create Responsive Programs: 

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

Strategies for sharing data effectively: 

• Data dashboards.
• Presentations.
• Written reports.

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

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

Creative Paper Activities:

1. Mind Mapping:

- Visual representation of thoughts and feelings

- Great for brainstorming and organizing ideas

2. Goal Setting:

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

- Create a roadmap to visualize progress

3. Art Therapy:

- Encourage self-expression and emotional articulation

- Activities like "I am" statements with watercolors

4. Scribble Drawing:

- Eyes-closed scribbling turned into a masterpiece

- Promotes creativity and finding beauty in the unexpected

5. What If Scenarios:

- List and analyze "what if" thoughts

- Differentiate realistic concerns from exaggerated fears

6. Journaling Prompts:

- Use prompts or quotes for reflection and emotional processing

- Option to draw responses

7. Collage Creation:

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

- Enhances self-awareness and pride

8. Origami:

- Therapeutic activity promoting mindfulness and relaxation

- Simple projects like paper boats and cootie catchers

9. Letter Writing:

- Write letters to themselves to express thoughts and hopes

- Revisit letters to track personal growth

10. Timelines:

- Chart significant life events or future goals

- Explore identity and experiences

Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor Chat

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

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

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

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

Steps to Create a Mind Map:

1. Start with a blank paper or whiteboard

2. Place the central thought in the middle

3. Branch out with related ideas and subtopics

4. Avoid judging ideas initially, just brainstorm freely

5. Link and structure thoughts to create a cohesive map

Benefits for School Counseling:

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

Effective Mind Mapping Tips:

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

Contact Information:

• Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor Chat
• Email me at [email protected]

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

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

Tips for Attending the ASCA Conference & Exciting Updates!

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

**Key Points:**

ASCA Conference Tips:

- Wear comfortable shoes and pack light.

- Bring a sweater for cold conference rooms.

- Download the conference app for updates and schedules.

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

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

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

Exploring Kansas City:

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

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

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

Links and Resources:

- 2024 Summer Counselor Conference Registration

Follow Brandy at:

The Counseling Teacher

The Counseling Teacher Brandy on TpT

Perks Content Club

Subscribe & Review:

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

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

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

• Summer Counselor Conference

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this episode:

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

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

Key Highlights:

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

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

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

Connect with Leslie:

• Informed Decisions
• TpT
• IG

Links Leslie mentioned:

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

• Summer Counselor Conference
• Laminator

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

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

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

Rest and Relaxation:

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

Reflect and Plan:

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

Professional Development:

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

Organization:

• Tips for decluttering and organizing personal and professional spaces

Connect and Collaborate:

• Building and maintaining a professional network

Self-Care:

• Focusing on overall wellness, including physical and mental health

• Summer Counselor Conference

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

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

Topics Discussed:

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

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

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

Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast

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

Connect with Carol:

• TpT Store
• Counseling Essentials Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group
• Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group
• High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we dive into:

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

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

Links Mentioned:

Meet Jordan:

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

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

Mentioned in this episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership

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

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

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

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

Until next time, keep making a positive impact!

Resources Mentioned:

Meet Laura:

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

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Perks Membership