What's Individual Counseling?

Let me just get one thing straight.  Though I have training in therapy and have a Master’s degree in Counseling, a School Counselor is not a Therapist.  Let me say that again, School Counselors are not Therapists.  So then, what’s the difference between what I call “therapy” and “counseling?”
Therapy – Typically more long term consistent care.  More appropriate for severe concerns/problems.  For example, students with depression, generalized anxiety, eating disorders, panic attacks, attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder, may benefit from therapy.

Counseling – Short term, less consistent and sometimes crisis intervention.  This is more appropriate for less severe concerns/problems.  For example, students who are having problems transitioning to something new at home or school (new teacher, new baby, recently moved), problems with friends, bullying, loss of pet, self-esteem, and problems with teacher/classmates.  I tell students if they are feeling mad, sad, or scared and would like to talk to someone, that’s what I’m here for.

Why can’t I provide therapy? 

 
There are about 500 students in grades K-4 here at Voyager Academy and only one me.  The type of care a student in therapy needs is simply not possible with this configuration.

So, what do I do?
Think of it this way, I’m kind of like a Band-Aid.  If your child has a broken arm, you aren’t going to fix it with a Band-Aid.  At least, I hope not.  Typically I can meet with students about once a week (“about” once a week) for six to eight weeks. I’ll meet with your child during their lunch period or some other non-instructional time.  We’ll meet for about 30 minutes.  I give them time to discuss what’s going on and together we find ways to solve problems.  If a problem is more serious that it cannot be solved after 6-8 meetings, outside therapy is worth a try.

Therapy is not a bad thing.  I think everyone can use some level of therapy.  It’s helpful even if all you want to do is just have someone listen to you non-stop for 45 minutes.  Who couldn’t use that?  While in my Master’s program I had to attend 4 therapy sessions.  It’s kind of neat to have someone give you insight into things that you do and say, because sometimes we have a hard time even listening to ourselves.

Think your student could benefit from individual counseling with me?