DMS Counselors

… Assist students with

• Understanding self and feelings.
• Making difficult choices.
• Setting goals.
• Developing their individuality vs. peer pressure.
• Learning self-discipline and responsibility to self, family, and society.
• Developing coping skills.
• Resolving conflicts effectively.
• Learning how school performance relates to future opportunities.
• Learning to recognize and make the best of their abilities.

…Offer students

• Classroom guidance lessons.
• Individual counseling and crisis intervention support.
• A safe place to talk.
• Conflict intervention.
• Anger Management skills.
• Study skills assistance.
• Group support for specific issues.
• Character education.
• A safe and caring environment.

How Does a Student See a Counselor?

• Self—Referral
• Request of a counselor
• Parent referral
• Teacher/staff referral
• Referral by friend(s)
• Administrative referral

Why Do Parents Contact the School Counselor?

• Concerns over student achievement
• Family health problems
• Test interpretation
• Discussing special needs of their child
• Early discussion of potential crisis
• Family difficulties or concerns
• New school registration/orientation