Counselor Referrals - Frequently Asked Questions

 

Should I be concerned if my child comes home and says that he/she has visited with the school counselor?

There is no need to worry.  Each month, counselors spend time in classrooms to teach lessons that promote social and emotional health and well-being.  We get to know each other during these visits.  Working with their teacher, we do our best to make Ridgeview a safe and comfortable place for them to grow and learn.  Usually kids visit with counselors for things such as needing help to solve a conflict with peer, handling a big feeling, wanting to eat lunch together or sharing something special about an experience they've had.  We encourage students to share with their parents when and why we met.  If there is an on-going issue or major concern, we will contact parents.

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Who refers students and what are some reasons why a student might want to talk with the school counselors?

Sometimes kids will refer themselves by filling out a counselor self-referral form or by asking their teacher.  Sometimes teachers or parents ask counselors to visit with a student when there is a concern or if a student needs to talk.  There are many reasons why a student may want to visit: conflicts with peers at recess or in the classroom, changes within the the dynamics of their family, having strong feelings and wanting a quiet place to talk and calm down, and so many others.  Again, we will contact parents if there is an on-going issue or major concern. 

 

Here are some reasons why a teacher or administrator might refer a student to see the school counselor:  

• to help students develop skills in areas such as making friends, gaining more confidence or problem-solving,

• a noticed change in a student's behavior (e.g. more easily distracted, more tired or distant, more agitated), 

• to learn and practice self-calming skills 

• when there are concerns with a student's attendance

• when a student is having difficulty concentrating or learning

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Parents/Guardians, please consider contacting us if:

• there are changes in the dynamics of your family (e.g. divorce, birth of a sibling).

• a loved one dies (including a pet)

• there are noticeable changes in your child's behavior, sleep habits, eating habits, or play (e.g. more aggressive play)

• your child becomes anxious or fearful for unknown reasons

• your child is struggling academically, expresses that he/she does not want to go to school, is having difficulty relating to his/her peers, or any other area of concern.

• you are in need of information, strategies or resources.​

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