Counselor Accents

School counselors wear a lot of hats, and we always say one of them is that of an investigator!In this episode of the Counselor Accents Podcast, we sit down with Barbara Ladd, a school resource specialist whose counseling instincts helped solve a decades-old cold case! As counselors, we're constantly gathering information, noticing patterns, asking thoughtful questions, and building trust. Those same skills proved to be the missing piece in a REAL criminal investigation!Join us for a fascinating conversation about the power of observation, curiosity, and putting the pieces together. Learn how the skills you use every day can have an impact far beyond the walls of your school.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Some days as a school counselor, you leave work feeling like you've changed a life. Other days you're wondering if graduate school somehow forgot to mention this part of the job.In this episode, we're introducing a brand-new segment: Stories from the Trenches. Laugh along with us as we read your submissions, share our own reactions, and invite you to play along with our new "Pick Your Response" moments. Whether you're choosing between staying professional or questioning your life choices, we promise you'll see yourself somewhere in the answers.So grab your coffee, buckle up for the commute, and remember: you are definitely not the only counselor wondering, "Did that really just happen?"Have a story from the trenches? We'd love to hear it! Send us your funniest, most unbelievable, "you had to be there" school counseling moments. Your story might just be featured in a future episode (anonymously, of course). Emails us at [email protected]

Talking about suicide can feel overwhelming, but avoiding the conversation isn't the answer.This week on the Counselor Accents Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome back our longtime friend, Steve Sharp! In fact, Steve officially holds the record for the most appearances on the podcast, and every time he's joins us, we leave challenged, encouraged, and equipped. This time, he's joined by his coauthor, Dr. Perri Rosen, to discuss their book, Lives Worth Living: Applying Zero Suicide as a Prevention Approach for Schools.Before we jump in, a little behind-the-scenes confession: We recorded this conversation back in November, and during a little summer cleanup of our podcast files, we realized this gem had somehow never made it to you! We couldn't let that happen, because the wisdom in this conversation is just as timely today.Together, we explore how schools can move beyond simply responding to crises and instead build systems that promote hope, connection, and safety for every student. Steve and Perri share practical strategies for implementing the Zero Suicide framework in schools, discuss the importance of collaboration and early intervention, and offer tangible ways counselors can lead meaningful change on their campuses.This conversation isn't about fear. It's about hope. It's about creating schools where every student feels seen, supported, and reminded that their life has immeasurable value.Whether you're a school counselor, administrator, psychologist, or anyone who works with students, you'll walk away with practical ideas, fresh perspective, and renewed confidence to help build a culture of care in your school.We're so glad we rediscovered this conversation, and we think you'll be glad we did too.

Minute meetings can be one of the most effective tools in school counseling, but only if you understand what actually happens when you try to implement them in a real school setting.In this episode, we’re sharing the lessons we learned the hard way after rolling out minute meetings with intention, planning, and structure… and still running into challenges we didn’t fully anticipate.We’ll walk you through the biggest adjustments we had to make, including:Why your schedule will need to be flexible (no matter how well you plan)How small changes in question wording can completely change your dataThe truth about how long “minute” meetings actually takeWhy getting through your entire school takes longer than expectedWhat happened when we tried having teachers lead the meetings, and what we learned from itThis isn’t about doing it wrong. It’s about refining the process so it actually works in a busy, unpredictable school environment.If you’re using minute meetings, or thinking about starting, this episode will help you plan smarter, adjust faster, and avoid some of the things we didn’t see coming.minute meetings school counselingschool counseling strategiesstudent check in systemstier 2 interventions school counselingdata collection school counselingcounseling organization systemsproactive school counseling

Ever had a student completely shut down and refuse to do any work? You’re not alone! And it’s not just about motivation.In this episode, we’re breaking down student refusal behavior strategies that actually work in real school settings. Whether you’re a school counselor, teacher, or administrator, you’ll walk away with practical tools you can use immediately.We’ll talk about what’s really behind student refusal behavior, because it’s rarely just “laziness," and how to respond in the moment without escalating the situation.You’ll hear:What to say when a student refuses to workWhy traditional motivation strategies often fall flatWhat not to do when students shut downHow to support students while still maintaining expectationsWe’ll also share honest insight into what progress actually looks like. Because sometimes success isn’t full engagement right away… it’s just less resistance.If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know what else to try,” this episode is for you.Virginia Small Group Conferencestudent refusal behavior strategiesstudent refuses to workunmotivated studentsstudent disengagementschool counseling strategiesclassroom behavior managementstudent avoidance behaviorcounseling interventions

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

In this important episode of the Counselor Accents Podcast, we sit down with Angela Avery, a seasoned middle school counselor from Maine, to discuss one of the most challenging and critical topics facing schools today: suicide prevention.Angela shares practical, proactive strategies school counselors can use to address suicide in developmentally appropriate, ethical, and trauma-informed ways. This conversation focuses on prevention over reaction, highlighting everyday practices that quietly save lives long before a crisis occurs.Listeners will gain insight into:How to talk about suicide safely and responsibly with studentsProactive suicide prevention strategies School counseling protocols and response planningProtective factors counselors may already be strengthening without realizing itWays to build a school culture of connection, trust, and emotional safetyAngela also reassures counselors who worry they’re “doing it wrong” that many effective prevention efforts are already happening through relationship-building, SEL lessons, and consistent check-ins. This episode emphasizes that suicide prevention is not one program or lesson — it’s a system of care woven into daily school counseling practice.Whether you are a school counselor, administrator, or mental health professional, this episode offers grounded guidance, encouragement, and realistic tools for navigating an incredibly sensitive topic with confidence and compassion.

🎃 Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program – Parent Power Sessions 🎃It’s the final episode of our Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program series, and we’re closing it out with something every school counselor knows is both powerful and challenging: parent communication. 🍂🎃In this episode, we’re diving into simple, meaningful, and practical ways to build strong connections with families—without overwhelming yourself in the process. We’re talking about:✨ Meet & Greets that help parents see you as a real, approachable human✨ Newsletter features that educate families while celebrating your work✨ Parent sessions on relevant topics (yes, including the big one… cell phone usage📱)✨ Easy communication strategies that build trust and partnership✨ And how to create “Parent Power Sessions” that empower families and lighten your loadBecause here’s the truth: when parents feel connected to you, they feel connected to the entire school community. And when that happens, everyone wins—students, families, and you.Join us as we wrap up the Pumpkin Spice season with encouragement, ideas you can use immediately, and a whole lot of heart. 💛

🎃 Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program- Episode 4: A School Counseling Data Board- Making Your Impact Impossible to Ignore 🎃In this episode of Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program, we’re stirring in one of our favorite ingredients for strengthening your school counseling program: a data board.If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing incredible work but no one really sees it… this episode is for you.A well-designed data board can:✨ showcase your impact✨ help stakeholders understand what you do✨ advocate for you even when you’re not in the room✨ and add a little “pumpkin spice” flair to your counseling space!We walk you step-by-step through what to include, where to put it, how to keep it updated, and how to make it visually appealing (even if you don't feel like a graphic designer). You’ll leave with practical tips, creative ideas, and the confidence to start building a data board that turns your services into a story worth noticing.Whether you’re brand new to data or just want a fresh way to share your impact, this episode will give you exactly what you need to spice things up!

🎃 Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program – Episode 3: Game On! Engaging Students with Quick Wins 🎃Sometimes the best connections with students happen in the smallest moments. In this episode of our Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program series, we’re sharing how to use quick games and engaging questions to build relationships, spark conversations, and add energy to your counseling program.From Plinko boards 🎯 to spinning wheels 🎡 to simple “Would You Rather” questions, these fun tools make counseling approachable, break the ice, and create memorable moments without taking up a lot of time.We’ll cover:🍁 How to set up easy “pop-up” counseling stations with interactive games🍁 Question prompts that get students talking (and laughing)🍁 Ways to use games for SEL check-ins, coping skills practice, and career chats🍁 How these playful strategies can double as powerful data-collection toolsIf you’re ready to add some fall flavor, boost student engagement, and show that counseling can be both meaningful and fun, this episode will give you practical ideas you can try tomorrow!☕️ Grab your pumpkin spice latte and tune in for quick, game-changing strategies!

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

🎃 Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program – Episode 1: Pop-Up School CounselingIt’s time to add some fall flavor to your counseling program! In this brand-new series, Pumpkin Spice Up Your School Counseling Program, we’re sharing creative, practical, and fun ideas that will freshen up the way you connect with students.In this first episode, we’re talking about Pop-Up School Counseling—unique ways to bring your support out of the office and into the spaces where students naturally are. From hallway check-ins to surprise lunchtime activities, we’ll explore how “pop-up” counseling breaks stigma, increases visibility, and creates meaningful connections in unexpected places.If you’re looking for fresh ideas to meet students right where they are, this episode will leave you inspired (and maybe craving a pumpkin spice latte).☕️ Tune in, take notes, and get ready to spice up your school counseling program!

School counselors know the truth — “lunch break” often just means eating over your keyboard, between classroom visits, or while making copies. In this episode, we’re serving up quick, easy, and delicious low-prep or no-prep lunch ideas that will keep you fueled for the whirlwind of your day.From grab-and-go protein options to creative bento box combinations, these tips are designed for busy school counselors who barely have time to breathe, let alone heat up a gourmet meal. Whether you’ve got 10 minutes to eat or just 2, you’ll leave with practical ideas you can start using tomorrow.🍎 Listen in and take back your lunch — even if it’s in your office with the door half-shut.

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of being a school counselor: clearly communicating your school counseling role to the staff you work with every day. Whether you're tired of being asked to cover classes or want to build stronger, more collaborative relationships with teachers and administrators, this conversation is for you. You'll hear practical tips for defining your role, setting boundaries, and helping your school community understand all of the ways you support students. Let’s make sure your work is seen, valued, and respected from day one.

Is your desk more "paper avalanche" than productivity zone? You're not alone—and we've got you.In this episode, we're talking all about how to turn your school counseling workspace into a well-oiled, stress-reducing, task-tackling machine. 🧠✨ From creative storage hacks to time-saving desk zones, we’re breaking down what actually works in the real world of school counseling (read: when you have 2 minutes between a crisis and carline).You'll learn:The must-have items every counseling desk should includeWhat to ditch, what to delegate, and what to organize once and for allOur favorite lesser-known tools and systems that keep things running smoothlyHow your desk setup can support—not sabotage—your daily prioritiesWhether you’re brand new to the role or just ready for a reset, this episode will help you reclaim your workspace and refocus your energy where it matters most: your students. 💛So grab a trash can, a label maker, and maybe a snack—we’re diving in!

🎯 Feeling buried under a never-ending to-do list? You're not alone.In today’s episode, we’re diving into game-changing tools that help school counselors manage the chaos, prioritize what matters most, and stay focused on the heart of the work—kids. 💛Whether you're a sticky-note warrior or a digital planner pro, these tools will help you work smarter, not harder. ✏️📋⏳👉 Tune in and find your new favorite system for conquering the chaos (without losing your cool).#SchoolCounselingTools #PrioritizationStrategies #CounselorLife #TimeManagementForCounselors #SmartNotStressed

In this episode, we’re talking about Open House—but not the old-school version where you hand out a few school counseling brochures and hope for the best. We’re reimagining this traditional event as a powerful opportunity to advocate for your role, build relationships, and set the tone for the year ahead.You’ll hear fresh, creative ideas for how to make your presence known and your purpose clear, including ways to visually showcase your work, connect meaningfully with families, and explain the “why” behind what school counselors do.PLUS—we’re sharing a link to a free, customizable magazine template you can use to introduce your program in a dynamic, modern way.Whether you’re a new counselor or a seasoned pro, this episode will spark ideas that go way beyond the trifold flyer. It’s time to make this Open House your most impactful one yet!

In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Counselor Accents Podcast, we welcome back our dear friend and brilliant colleague, Steve Sharp. Steve joins us to talk about his latest work, Redesigning Schools to Be Antiracist, where he introduces a practical framework for creating meaningful, lasting change in schools. From understanding why systems often resist change to learning how to disrupt the Oppression Cycle, Steve brings both depth and hope to the conversation about equity in education.Just as we were recording, Steve got the exciting news that his brand-new book, Lives Worth Living: Applying Zero Suicide as a Prevention Approach for Schools, had officially launched—and we get a sneak peek! In typical Steve fashion, he blends heart, humor, and expertise while tackling some of the most critical issues facing schools today.With an impressive résumé that includes serving on the ASCA Board of Directors, leading the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association, being named PA Middle School Counselor of the Year, and becoming a bestselling author and consultant—you might expect Steve to have moved on from the day-to-day work of school counseling. But what we love most? He's still in the trenches, showing up for students every day and reminding us why our work matters.Tune in for a conversation that will challenge, encourage, and equip you as a school counselor and change maker.

If you still have a few weeks of summer left, listen to this episode to find out our recommended reading list for school counselors (Fiction Edition). We each are sharing a few of our 5 star fictional book choices. We try to tell you why these books might appeal to you as a school counselor. Let us know if you've read any of these, or if you have a book to suggest!Check out our post about these books here:https://counseloraccents.com/recommended-reading-list-for-school-counselors/

In this powerful and heart-wrenching episode, we speak with Dave Neese, the father of Skylar Neese—a bright, spirited teenager whose life was tragically cut short when she was brutally murdered by two girls she considered her best friends. Dave shares Skylar’s story with honesty, courage, and a deep commitment to preventing similar tragedies.This episode is intended for school counselors, educators, youth advocates, parents, and anyone who works with adolescents. Together, we explore the warning signs of relational aggression, how toxic friendships can escalate, and what trusted adults can do to identify and intervene before it's too late.Through Dave’s voice, we honor Skylar’s memory while shedding light on the hidden and often overlooked dynamics of adolescent relationships. This conversation is both a call to awareness and a guide for those working to create safer emotional environments for all students.Trigger Warning: This episode discusses violence, loss, and adolescent mental health.

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

Youth sex trafficking is a growing problem in today’s world.Often, individuals don’t understand what trafficking lookslike in the United States...especially in rural areas. In this episode Adria Palmer focuses on the signs of trafficking and what we, as educators, can do to educate our families and communities. Adria is a high school counselor in Missouri and was the 2007 Outstanding Young Professional from the Universityof Missouri-Columbia and the 2020 Secondary School Counselor of the Year in Northeast, Missouri.To contact Adria email her at [email protected].

You will definitely not want to miss this episode with our panel of behavior experts! They are answering the burning behavior questions that some of our Behavior Detour participants submitted. We guarantee you will nod your head as some of these questions are asked. So many of us are experiencing similar behaviors, no matter what age group or location you're in. This episode is full of rubber meets the road strategies you can implement immediately. Position yourself as a leader and listen and share this!Sign up to watch the virtual, on-demand sessions.

We're gonna be honest- this episode is a chaotic hot mess, but our guest is amazing and joins us to share the fantastic school counseling initiatives he has started in the state of Kansas. Nick Brummett is one of our new obsessions due to his rubber meets the road ideas and general school counseling prowess. Get ready to take notes! You'll want to join in or start some of these same things in your own school counseling program!

If you're like us, you might have thought that The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children solely focused on helping locate missing children; however, the word "Exploited" actually covers a lot of the situations we as school counselors deal with on a daily basis.In this episode Alejandra from The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children shares how this organization can support educators and the work we do daily.⁠Join our Behavior Detour Conference!⁠

In this episode Geoff Heckman joins us to talk about the importance of advocating as school counselors. Geoff inspires us to be fearless in our role, even when we do feel scared or intimidated. This is a great episode to listen to whether you're preparing to become a school counselor, or if you are a veteran school counselor. Join our Behavior Detour Conference!

In this episode we are joined by Lisa Pruitt. She describes the incredible work that is being done through the MO-CPAP (Missouri Child Psychiatry Access Program). There are endless resources available to school counselors, other educators, and parents through this program. Listen to the end to hear our friend, Mallory Jacobs talk about ways to incorporate the movie Wicked into your school counseling lessons.

As school counselors it is inevitable that we will have students who will be in CPS care each year. In this episode MJ Matthews shares ways that we can support students and families who are in foster care or who have already transitioned to the adoption process.

Grief is something that is unavoidable. It is almost guaranteed that at some point through the year you will be counseling your students through their personal grief. School counselor Jodi Fiore's mother was a huge personality, not only at home, but also in the community. In this episode Jodi shares how she processed the death of her mother as a young child, and how it has given her insight on how to talk with students about grief as a school counselor. She graciously shares those tips with us through this podcast, but also with the books she's written about Lia-RIA. In this episode we also have Mallory Jacobs doing our "In the Mix with Mal Pal" segment sharing some much needed deep breathing techniques that you can share with your students! Submit your funny or inspirational story! Submit a proposal to our Behavior Detour Conference! Lia-Ria and the Ostrich Feathers Lia-Ria and the Lockdown Drill Lia-Ria Meets the Angels Lia-Ria and the Old Timers Nee Doh Cube Hobermans Sphere We are Amazon Affiliates. If you click on those links, it won't cost you extra, but we will make a little cheddar from your purchase!

In this episode Dr. Karen Gross joins us to talk about her new book, Mending Education. Dr. Gross explains so beautifully why some of the processes and procedures are failing to work the same way they worked pre-pandemic. She shows us some of the changes that actually worked really as we educated students through the pandemic, why we should keep them in place, and how the rush to return to "normal" may have actually caused some of the behaviors and frustration we are witnessing and experiencing now.

No matter where you are in your school counseling journey, sometimes it is great to talk with someone who is just beginning their journey. In this episode we talk with Shae, a school counseling student, and get her perspective on the future of school counseling, what she is being prepared for as far as the uptick in behaviors, and what she wants veteran school counselors to know. This episode is a great reminder of why we do what we do, and we hope it serves as some inspiration to reach out to someone new in the trenches and share some kind words or assistance! The Ultimate School Counseling Bundle- 90% Off Growing Your Program Wait List

If you've been a school counselor for longer than 5 minutes, you have most likely used a resource from Julia Cook. In this episode she shares how she got started, why she loves school counseling, and what she has coming up next! The things she talks about in this episode will save you time, make you successful, and position you as a leader! Sign up for Cookie Bytes

Kriya Lendzion has been called "The Teen Whisperer." Once you listen to this episode, you will understand why! In this episode she shares statistics about addiction, primarily related to vaping, but she includes alcohol and even screen addiction! She also shares strategies and how school counselors can advocate for policies to help support students overcoming their addictions. This is one of those episodes that ALL educators and parents need to hear! Click here for Kriya's resource page! Sign up for more of Kriya's resources.

Our roving reporter, Mallory Jacobs, was on the streets of the ASCA conference, talking with YOU about all of the things you learned and loved about the conference this year. If you haven't been to an ASCA conference, we would highly recommend listening to this episode so you can start advocating now to join us next year! Take a listen- you might hear yourself, and at the very least we think you'll at least chuckle here and there! Owala Water Bottle Growing Your Program Course Wait List Alabama Critical Issues Conference

There are several topics that school counselors have to share each year that feel uncomfortable or difficult to talk about. Many of these topics are required, but that doesn't make it any easier! In this episode we're giving you resources and ideas on ways to cover these difficult topics that school counselors need to talk about. Here is a link to a free lesson on hygiene.

This episode is full of various ways to take your school counseling program to the next level. In this episode, School Counselor Extraordinaire, Sarah Nauman, joins her administrator, Dr.. Heather Baker, to talk about how they collaborate to find new approaches to behaviors and programs. This collaboration has led to advocacy opportunities for Sarah as well as school and community buy-in for her program. This is one of those episodes that you could listen to multiple times and find new information each time!

In this episode former Missouri Teacher of the Year, Darbie Valenti Huff, recounts the story of a student named Junie. Junie had behavior issues, hygiene issues, you name it! School counselors and all educators need to hear this story about a student who seemed almost impossible to help. We all have students like Junie. Listen to find out what became of Junie and what educators can do to reach the seemingly unreachable. Book Darbie to do a powerful PD at your school: [email protected] Find her on social media: @miss_d_valenti

Are you making the switch to another grade level? This time of year can feel like "fruit basket turnover," and can leave you wondering what to take with you to your new office, how to interact with the students in another age group, and how to run your program effectively at another school. We are tackling this topic in this episode!

If you can only listen to one episode this week, MAKE IT THIS ONE!!!  Mallory Jacobs is a force in the school counseling world.  She has been named the Kansas School Counselor of the Year, and she wears the crown well!  She exudes joy, spreads positivity, and has a gift for seeing the best in most situations.  In this episode she shares how she does that, and why, as school counselors, it is sometimes necessary for us to do this with our students.

If you're like us, one of the areas we lack training in is eating disorders; however, without fail, we have students each year who struggle with this. In this episode Lauren Dorman, Mental Health Registered Dietitian, shares the difference between eating disorders and disordered eating. She gives us tips to share with parents and ways we can help our students. Click here to download Lauren's Myth Fact Sheet Click here to visit Lauren's website Signs and Symptoms of Disordered Eating

It's that time of year again! Aspiring new school counselors are venturing out to land their first job, or maybe you're listening because you are sitting in on the interviews for other positions in your school. Whatever your reason- even if only for the laughs, we believe some great leadership tips and dos and don'ts are being shared in this episode. Click here to join the Summer Counselor Conference Click here to purchase our book, Growing Your Program for School Counselors

In this episode we are sharing 5 tips to help you finish your school counseling year strong. These 5 tips are also a great way to ensure that you start your school counseling year by "plowing your first row straight." We talk a little about data, organization, evaluations, and some topics that we really don't even want to put in writing! 🤣 🐉 iykyk Growing Your Program for School Counselors Book Growing Your Program for School Counselors Course

In this episode we will be talking about our recent New York City adventure. We are also sharing the responsibility we have as school counselors to share the voice of our students, who are the most marginalized and vulnerable members of society. Some of our discussion includes training teachers to understand student voice. In our course, Growing Your Program, we share the specifics of how we train teachers to understand the story that our students have. Join the Waitlist for Our Course

Sandy Austin answered the call to help victims and families on the day of the Columbine school shooting 25 years ago. In this episode she shares her story and the inspiration behind her B.I.O.N.I.C. program. Check it out and start changing your school's culture today! Click here to check out B.I.O.N.I.C.

Stress contagion may be a new term to you, but it refers to the phenomenon where individuals within a group or social network can "catch" or be influenced by the stress levels of others around them. And whether it's your first or your fifty-first year in a school, please let us remind you that 'tis the season for stress! Understanding the relationship between stress contagion and school counselors is important, and we have some strategies to help you keep that stress contagion from spreading! Missouri Virtual Session New Jersey Spring School Counseling Conference Growing Your Program Wait List

School counseling means sharing in rites of passage for our students. Moving to the next grade is one of those! In this episode we're sharing a few rubber meets the road things you can get started on now to make transitioning to the next grade level go smoothly for your students and teachers!

Whether you're the building test coordinator or not, this episode is full of school-wide tips that everyone can benefit from! We are sharing 7 of our best tips plus a few extra "rubber meets the road" strategies. We haven't met anyone who loves standardized testing season, but in most states it is a requirement. This episode may help bring some calm to the chaos that surrounds the testing season. Growing Your Program Wait List Attack the Test Lesson Bee Ready Test Taking Lesson Train Your Brain Centers

Tis the season for so many school counseling tasks! Then again, when ISN'T the season for so many school counseling tasks?! When there are too many school counseling tasks and not enough time, we might start to feel hopelessness, anger, bitterness, frustration, and burn out. We believe we have 5 ways to avoid these pitfalls. Listen for a few strategies that just might help you avoid burn out this season!

We recorded this episode on the go, literally! But with the need for behavior strategies at an all-time high, we felt like it was imperative to bring this episode to you! In this episode you'll get to hear from not one, not two, but three behavior experts! These guests will bring powerful strategies and practical applications that you can help teachers implement in the classroom. These are 3 of the speakers we will be having at our upcoming Behavior Detour Conference. Sign up now by clicking here! Join the wait list for our course, Growing Your Program

School counselors are often one of the first people contacted when a student is displaying challenging behaviors. With behaviors being a main challenge right now for a lot of counselors, Monique Young has developed her services by intentionally improving social skills through individual and small group counseling. In this episode Monique gives listeners ideas of what behavior challenges can be addressed through school counseling services. Follow Monique! @TheSchoolCounselorCoach on Instagram Email her at [email protected] Join our Behavior Detour Conference! Join the waiting list for our Growing Your Program course! Purchase our book, Growing Your Program for School Counselors. Purchase our children's book, Hi Gene! The hotdog cooker we mention in this episode.