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Counseling Services

What is the difference between "School Counselor" and "Guidance Counselor"?

The terms school counselor and guidance counselor are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct connotations. Guidance counselor is an older term that primarily refers to professionals who focused on academic advising and career planning, often working with students to select courses, explore college options, and prepare for the workforce. In contrast, school counselor is a more modern and comprehensive term that reflects the expanded role of these professionals. School counselors provide not only academic and career guidance but also social-emotional support, crisis intervention, and mental health counseling. They work to address students' holistic well-being, collaborating with teachers, parents, and administrators to create a supportive school environment. The shift from guidance counselor to school counselor highlights the profession’s evolution from a narrow academic focus to a broader, more integrative approach to student development.

 
Counseling & Wellness Services

  • Individual school based counseling - A brief, goal-oriented counseling approach designed to help students address specific challenges by developing coping strategies and problem-solving skills. It is not intended to replace outpatient therapy but rather to provide temporary support within the school setting, helping students manage difficulties and access additional resources if needed. 

  • Drop-in individual counseling - Flexible, on demand counseling service where students can seek support without an appointment. It provides a safe place where students can discuss academic, personal, or social/emotional concerns in a confidential setting.

  • Small group counseling - A structured counseling format designed to help students build and strengthen their social skills in a supportive environment. Through a combination of conversation, games, and structured activities, students will have the change to engage with their peers and work on enhancing their individual skills (coping skills, emotional regulation, healthy relationships, growth mindset, etc.).

  • Crisis counseling - Immediate, short-term support provided to students urgent urgent emotional distress or traumatic situations that are disrupting the student's school life. 

  • Conflict Resolution - A process of addressing and resolving disputes in a peaceful and constructive manner. It involves communication, problem-solving, and negotiation skills to help individuals or groups find mutually acceptable solutions while promoting understanding and reducing tension. 

  • High school counseling - Provide support and guidance to students as they navigate the high school application process. This includes assisting them research schools, complete applications, prepare for interviews, etc. 

  • Classroom Lessons - Structured lessons designed to support students' social emotional learning (SEL) based on their identified needs. These lessons help students develop essential skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, responsible decision making, relationship building, and conflict resolution.