School Counseling Simplified Podcast

School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica.

261. Dealing with School Refusal 08/12/2025

261. Dealing with School Refusal Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! As we dive into the back-to-school season, many of us are seeing students who are struggling with separation anxiety and school refusal. In this episode, we’re talking about how you can support not only the students experiencing anxiety, but also the teachers in your building and the parents at home. We’ll cover a wide range of practical, school-based strategies that you can implement right away. From calming tools and classroom tips to talking points for caregivers, this episode will give you a full toolkit for addressing separation anxiety at the start of the school year. Whether you’re working with new kindergarten students, recent transfers, or kids who are just feeling unsure after summer break, these ideas will help you build connections, reduce fear, and create a strong foundation for the year ahead. Tips for Supporting Students School Tours: Offering a separate tour (outside of open house or back-to-school night) can help new or anxious students become familiar with the campus and reduce fear of the unknown. Safe Spaces: Creating a calm-down corner in your counseling office, or encouraging teachers to have one in the classroom, can give students a space to feel grounded. Daily Check-ins: Offer brief check-ins during the first few days or weeks to help students feel supported by a trusted adult. Safety Plans: For students still experiencing significant anxiety after rapport has been built, work together to create a personal safety plan that outlines their support system and calming strategies. Small Groups: Run a separation anxiety small group using CBT-based activities, mindfulness tools, and games to help students feel less alone and more empowered. Tips for Teachers Buddy Systems: Pair students experiencing anxiety with a calm, confident peer to help them feel supported and included. Visual Schedules: Use visual schedules to help students know what to expect throughout the day, reducing anxiety caused by uncertainty. SEL Integration: Incorporate social-emotional learning into daily routines with a consistent morning meeting or circle time. Read-Alouds: Use books like The Invisible String to open up conversations about separation and connection. Classroom Jobs: Assign meaningful classroom roles to help anxious students feel a sense of purpose and belonging. Transitional Objects: Allow students to bring a comforting object from home (such as a stuffed animal, small toy, or photo) during the first few days. Tips for Parents and Caregivers Validation: Encourage caregivers to acknowledge their child’s feelings without minimizing them. A simple “I see this is really hard for you” goes a long way. Consistent Routines: Remind parents of the power of predictability. A steady sleep schedule, breakfast routine, and drop-off ritual can ease anxiety. Practice Separations: Suggest that parents do short practice separations before school starts (e.g., playdates or time at a grandparent’s house). Quick Goodbyes: Encourage brief, confident goodbyes at drop-off and reassure the child about who will pick them up. Lingering can unintentionally reinforce anxiety. Positive Modeling: Remind parents that children often take cues from adults. Expressing enthusiasm and trust in the school helps children feel the same. By supporting students, teachers, and families together, you can help reduce separation anxiety and set everyone up for success this school year. This episode offers you a well-rounded approach that’s practical, compassionate, and easy to implement. Resources Mentioned: Books: Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37669825

260. 9 Must-Have Class Lessons for Back to School Season 08/05/2025

260. 9 Must-Have Class Lessons for Back to School Season Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! August is here, which means it’s officially back-to-school season and time to start planning your class lessons. While small groups and individual sessions are important, those referrals often trickle in later as teachers get to know their students. That’s why I love starting the school year with a strong foundation of proactive, Tier 1 class lessons. In this episode, I’m walking you through 9 of my must-have class lessons that are perfect for kicking off the year. These lessons help you see every student and establish a consistent, supportive presence across campus. I’ll also share tips for staying organized and avoiding overwhelm by using a curriculum map. (You can grab a free one in the show notes below.) What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why beginning the year with class lessons sets a proactive foundation How Tier 1 lessons help you reach every student while maximizing your time How to avoid overwhelm with curriculum mapping Creative ways to teach each essential lesson using games, stories, and activities 9 Back-to-School Class Lessons to Start the Year: Meet the Counselor Introduce yourself, your role, and how students can access your services. Try using a fun format like a game show (Jeopardy style) or an escape room with missions. Listening Skills Teach students what it really means to be an active listener. Activities like “Simon Says” are engaging and effective for younger students. Following Directions Reinforce routines and classroom expectations early on. Simple games like “Simon Says” can double for both listening and direction-following practice. Responsibility Foster independence and ownership among students. Use engaging stories, songs, or self-reflection activities to make it stick. Size of the Problem + Self-Regulation Teach students to assess and regulate their reactions. Introduce tools like Zones of Regulation to build a shared school-wide language. Self-Control Help students manage impulses and reactions. Use a social story like My Mouth is a Volcano or try a self-control escape room activity. Friendship Guide students in what it means to be a good friend and how to build healthy connections. Role-play or use storytelling to bring these concepts to life. Conflict Resolution Teach tools for resolving disagreements peacefully and respectfully. Programs like Kelso’s Choice are a great way to introduce these concepts. Bullying Prevention Set expectations for kindness and respect from the beginning. Share clear definitions and strategies to prevent and report bullying. By starting the year with these lessons, you’ll not only establish your presence as a school counselor but also build a foundation for a successful and supportive school year. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37669085

259. Preventing Risky Behaviors with Dr. Crystal Collier 07/29/2025

259. Preventing Risky Behaviors with Dr. Crystal Collier Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to an inspiring guest: Dr. Crystal Collier, PhD, LPC-S. Dr. Collier is a therapist, educator, and author, known for her powerful work in prevention education and brain development. She is the author of The NeuroWhereAbouts Guide and the Know Your Neuro children’s book series. The Know Your Neuro prevention model was selected for the Prevention and Education Commendation from the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. Dr. Collier received the Torch Bearer Award from the Texas Association of Addiction Professionals, Outstanding Research Award from the Association of Alternative Peer Groups, and was voted Counselor of the Year by the Houston Counseling Association. In this episode, Dr. Collier dives deep into: Risky behaviors to watch for in elementary students How early intervention impacts brain development The effects of screen time and technology on the brain The case for phone-free and watch-free schools Why it’s never too early to talk to kids about feelings, empathy, and healthy coping She shares sobering insights, like how 50% of anxiety disorders are diagnosed by age 6, and how exposure to drugs, alcohol, and even pornography can start as early as elementary school. But the good news? The brain can change! We can equip kids with tools early, long before they reach their “peak” development years. The key lies in prevention, consistent brain-based education, and empowering parents and counselors with the right strategies. Key Takeaways for School Counselors: Feelings education is critical: Teach students to name and express emotions to avoid avoidant coping strategies. Social experience matters: Lack of play and exposure can lead to higher anxiety. Early empathy-building can prevent bullying down the road. Prevention strategies must begin in early childhood and evolve as students grow. Teach executive functioning through brain-based praise and risk education. Use tools from to implement evidence-based practices. Pro tip from Dr. Collier: Encourage parents to have six 10-minute brain conversations per year with their kids—it’s a simple but powerful way to build awareness. Birth to age 3 is foundational—more kids are sitting with screens than moving their bodies, which affects motor skill development. Tune in to hear how you can be part of this essential work in your school and community! Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Crystal: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37593370

258. What counselors think about IMPACT 07/22/2025

258. What counselors think about IMPACT School is right around the corner, and I want to help you feel confident and prepared as you head back! I’m offering a free live training all about how to use a Meet the Counselor lesson to introduce yourself to your students and advocate for your role as a school counselor. You’ll get a free copy of my favorite lesson and a PD certificate for attending! This training is TODAY to make sure to use the link below in resources and save your seat! In today’s episode of School Counseling Simplified, I wanted to take a break from our usual content to let you hear directly from the amazing counselors inside the IMPACT membership. We’ve been talking about the Summer Summit and IMPACT over the last few episodes, and now you get to hear real experiences from real members. Here’s what some of them had to say about being part of IMPACT: Madelyn, a K–8 counselor, loves the ready-to-use resources, the opportunity to collaborate with other counselors in the community, and the empowering monthly PD. She’s saved so much time! Jennifer, a school social worker, finds the data tools especially helpful for gathering feedback from both students and adults. Lacy appreciates the small group lessons and that the plans are already aligned with ASCA standards. She feels more prepared and loves being able to print and use the resources with ease. Kelly is a one-counselor team across multiple buildings. She says IMPACT helps her get things done faster by cutting down on indirect hours and increasing time spent with students. Marybeth has saved so much time with the low-prep, research-based lessons that her students find fun and engaging. Angie says IMPACT has helped her grow tremendously by offering structured support, practical tools, and a strong sense of community through monthly PD and a network of nearly 1,000 school counselors. Lydia relies on the ASCA-aligned resources for quick support—especially on her most challenging days. Jamie loves that IMPACT has freed up the time she used to spend creating lessons from scratch. Now she can focus more on direct services for her students. Kailey, a first-year counselor, says IMPACT has helped her make a meaningful difference in her students’ lives from day one. Ready to feel supported and confident this school year? With school creeping up now is the perfect time to check out all the hype around IMPACT and see if it’s a great fit for you at: 👉 Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37487985

257. How to Use AI in Your School Counseling Program with Bradford Goodridge 07/15/2025

257. How to Use AI in Your School Counseling Program with Bradford Goodridge Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today’s episode features Summer Summit presenter Bradford, a seasoned school counselor from Chattanooga, TN. Bradford has six years of school counseling experience, teaches weekly at his church, and recently served as an adjunct professor. He’s passionate about building strong student relationships, and he’s also excited about incorporating new tech into his counseling program. Summer Summit Replay Access Did you miss Summer Summit? It’s not too late! When you join IMPACT, my monthly membership for school counselors, you’ll get access to all of the Summer Summit session recordings, along with PD hours. Sarah’s session is one you don’t want to miss. She shares how nervous system regulation supports executive functioning and practical tools to apply these strategies in your life and with students. In this episode, Bradford shares how he’s been using AI tools like Canva and Gemini to enhance classroom lessons and plan more efficiently. Whether it's creating engaging visuals or generating lesson ideas, Bradford explains how AI can be a time-saving support, not a replacement, for your work. In this episode, we discuss: How Bradford uses Canva’s AI tools to create engaging classroom visuals Why Gemini has become his go-to for brainstorming classroom lesson ideas A real-life example of when an AI lesson didn’t go to plan—and how it became a teaching moment The importance of specificity when using AI tools How AI can support 1:1 student session planning Bradford’s current schedule and how he prioritizes visibility and connection with students Advice for new counselors on building student trust through presence and relationships Bonus: Free Live Training This July! School is starting soon, and I’m offering a free live training on how to use a Meet-the-Counselor lesson to connect with students and advocate for your role! You’ll get a PD certificate and a ready-to-use lesson. I’ll be sharing my favorite activity, organization tips, and strategies for using the lesson to build relationships with both students and faculty. Join us July 21 or 22! Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Bradford: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37274575

256. Executive Functioning Hacks with Sarah Lovell 07/08/2025

256. Executive Functioning Hacks with Sarah Lovell Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today, I’m joined by a special guest, Sarah Lovell—an executive function and ADHD coach who brings so much value for both our work with students and our own professional and personal lives. Sarah Lovell (she/her) is an executive function & ADHD coach for college students, ambitious professionals, overthinkers, and recovering perfectionists who are tired of feeling stuck and are ready to work with their brains, not against them. With 11 years of experience, Sarah helps clients who try tool after tool… only to burn out or blame themselves when nothing sticks. She helps you understand why it’s so hard to get started (even on things you want to do!) and make sustainable changes in a way that feels good. Sarah’s background in social work grounds her work in compassionate practices, believing self-talk and self-care are the foundations for executive functioning. Along with 1:1 coaching, she runs a membership, Stuck to Started, that gives you extra support and accountability. She also hosts From Stuck to Started podcast, where she shares realistic, actionable strategies in 20 minutes or less. When Sarah isn’t coaching, she enjoys trail walks with her dogs, snuggling up with tea and a good book, and paddleboarding. Summer Summit Replay Access Did you miss Summer Summit? It’s not too late! When you join IMPACT, my monthly membership for school counselors, you’ll get access to all of the Summer Summit session recordings, along with PD hours. Sarah’s session is one you don’t want to miss. She shares how nervous system regulation supports executive functioning and practical tools to apply these strategies in your life and with students. Sneak Peek: Sarah’s Summer Summit Session In her session, From Overwhelmed to Organized, Sarah discusses the connection between executive functioning and nervous system regulation: When our nervous system is dysregulated, it becomes hard to access our executive functioning tools. Self-talk is a foundation for executive function, but regulation must come first. She walks through tools for both hyperarousal (anxiety, fight/flight) and hypoarousal (low energy, disconnection), including: Breathing and grounding exercises Somatic movement, like balance or tapping Separating planning from action to reduce overwhelm A Day in Sarah’s Life Sarah supports a wide range of adults: college students, women with ADHD, entrepreneurs, and business owners. She holds 1:1 coaching calls, runs a supportive membership, produces podcast content, and handles the daily marketing and admin needs of her business. Advice for Counselors “Self-talk is the foundation!” Whether you're feeling stuck, procrastinating, or overwhelmed, it starts with self-awareness. Understand the difference between procrastination and being stuck. Take a pause, name what you're experiencing, and give yourself credit along the way, not just when you meet the goal. Bonus: Free Live Training This July! School is starting soon, and I’m offering a free live training on how to use a Meet-the-Counselor lesson to connect with students and advocate for your role! You’ll get a PD certificate and a ready-to-use lesson. I’ll be sharing my favorite activity, organization tips, and strategies for using the lesson to build relationships with both students and faculty. Join us July 21 or 22! Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Sarah: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37272565

255. Starting an Attendance Committee with Elissa Hughes 07/01/2025

255. Starting an Attendance Committee with Elissa Hughes Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! This week, I’m sitting down with Elissa Hughes, a middle school counselor who shared a standout presentation during Summer Summit. If you didn’t get a chance to attend live, don’t worry—Summer Summit recordings are available inside the IMPACT membership, along with PD certificates and hundreds of other school counseling resources. Elissa Hughes is a middle school counselor with experience at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She is a member of her school’s attendance committee, focusing on tiered supports, student engagement, and family communication. Elissa is passionate about creative, practical strategies that build positive habits, foster resilience, and strengthen connections between schools and families. She is a certified RYT-200 yoga instructor with additional training in children’s yoga and enjoys weaving mindfulness into her work to support student well-being. She holds a Specialist degree in Professional Counseling, a Master’s in School Counseling, and a double major in Psychology and Sociology. In today’s episode, Elissa walks us through how her team approached improving attendance this school year through a tiered, relationship-driven strategy—and saw real results. In this episode, Elissa shares: Tier 1 Strategies: A fun, low-effort incentive program involving 7th period attendance tracking and Dairy Queen Blizzard rewards (yes, Dairy Queen donated them!). Teachers submitted attendance data daily, and one class per grade level was rewarded with a treat. Tier 2 Support: A more individualized approach focused on understanding student and family challenges around attendance. Elissa discusses the importance of genuinely getting to know students, building trust, and having honest conversations with families to problem-solve together. She walks through common barriers like anxiety, transportation, trauma, and basic needs, and how to respond with empathy and actionable support. Results: Their school’s chronic absenteeism rate dropped significantly within just one year. Elissa credits this to consistent team collaboration, community involvement, and a mindset focused on connection over compliance. Elissa also shares: What her daily schedule looks like as a middle school counselor, including mindfulness groups, classroom lessons, and flexible student support Her team’s collaboration with counselors, a social worker, and a family engagement coordinator, and plans to integrate PBIS more deeply next year Practical tips for embedding student wellness practices throughout the school day Advice for New School Counselors: "Always try to see things from another person’s perspective and point of view." Elissa reminds us that the foundation of strong counseling work is empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to learn from the lived experiences of others. If you loved this conversation and want to explore more practical tools like these, be sure to join the IMPACT membership. You'll gain access to every Summer Summit session recording, PD certificates, monthly resource drops, and a supportive community of school counselors like you. Don’t miss out! Want access to this session and more? Join the IMPACT membership to get all Summer Summit replays, monthly PD trainings, downloadable resources, and a community of fellow school counselors. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Elisa: Facebook - Not Your Average School Counselor More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37218685

254. Attachment Theory in the Classroom with Patti Sutherland and Monique Gougeon 06/24/2025

254. Attachment Theory in the Classroom with Patti Sutherland and Monique Gougeon Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! We’re continuing our special Summer Summit speaker series, and today I’m joined by an incredible pair: Monique and Patti, two clinical social workers and certified play therapists who specialize in attachment and child development. They recently spoke at Summer Summit about a topic that’s essential for every educator and school counselor: Attachment Theory in the Classroom. If you missed Summer Summit, it’s not too late. When you join IMPACT, my monthly school counselor membership, you’ll gain access to all of the Summer Summit recordings and PD hours—including Monique and Patti’s impactful session. Monique Gougeon, MSW, RSW, CPTS, CTPS has a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work and is a Certified Child Therapist and Play Therapist Supervisor with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy. Monique is certified as Theraplay Practitioner, Trainer and Supervisor with Theraplay Canada. She is also certified in Circle of Security Individual and Group models and is a Certified EMDR practitioner, specializing in Child and adolescent treatment. Monique has extensive experience working with children and families in community agencies and has worked for 20+ years in the field of children’s therapy. She is the owner of Alloway Therapy Services in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where she practices alongside her talented colleagues. Monique has special interests in supporting children who have experienced loss, developmental trauma, and attachment disruption. She regularly facilitates training and presentations for caregivers and professionals regarding child trauma and attachment disruption. Patti has a Masters in Social Work and has been a social worker for over 30 years. She has worked with children in women's shelter's, family violence programs, schools and spent 12 years in private practice. She is a Certified Play therapist with The Canadian Association of Play Therapy. She enjoys providing training for educators in the area of developmental trauma in the classroom and is currently a school social worker in the Winnipeg School Division in Winnipeg, Canada. About a year ago Patti decided she would try her hand at creating resources for school counselors and opened a TPT shop. A major learning curve, but an exciting new adventure. In This Episode: Monique and Patti dive into how we can apply attachment theory and the Circle of Security framework within the classroom and school counseling settings. We talk about: Why attachment-based practices aren’t just for “high-need” students but benefit all kids How the Circle of Security model, originally created for caregivers, can be adapted for educators and school counselors Ways to support students as they explore their world while also providing a secure base Shifting from behavior-based approaches to relational ones How restorative practices can preserve relationships, rather than relying on punitive systems A framework to help counselors and teachers feel more confident and less burned out They also share the PACE model—a mindset for working with children: Playful Accepting Curious Empathic By embodying these qualities, educators can create safer, more nurturing environments for all students. A Day in the Life (Patti): Patti shares a glimpse into her workweek, which includes: Direct client work 3 days per week, supporting children and caregivers Teaching play therapy curriculum through Therapy Canada Institute Providing supervision and training in therapeutic models: her work centers around integrating play, attachment, and trauma-informed practices to support school-aged children. Want to Learn More? Monique and Patti are hosting a 2-day training on August 18th and 19th. This is a fantastic opportunity to dive deeper into Circle of Security and attachment-informed practices for schools. Pre-register now to save your spot! Don’t miss out! Want access to this session and more? Join the IMPACT membership to get all Summer Summit replays, monthly PD trainings, downloadable resources, and a community of fellow school counselors. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Patti: Email Patti: Connect with Monique: Email Monique: [email protected] More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37061250

253. Sustainable Self-Care for School Counselors with Joyce Harduvel 06/17/2025

253. Sustainable Self-Care for School Counselors with Joyce Harduvel Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! Summer Summit may be over, but the value continues. Today, I’m chatting with one of our incredible Summit speakers, Joyce Harduvel, about a topic every school counselor needs—sustainable self-care. If you missed the Summit, it’s not too late! All the recordings and PD hours are still available when you join the IMPACT membership. You’ll get access to this session and so much more. Joyce is a licensed clinical social worker. She is a passionate advocate for youth and the school counselors and social workers who support them. She worked in Chicago Public Schools for seven years, where she specialized in evidence-based and trauma-informed behavior intervention for students with chronic challenging behaviors. Joyce is an advocate for proactive professional self-care that allows school-based professionals to build the sustainable careers of their dreams so that they can do what is really important: support their students! She now works with school counselors and social workers as a coach and clinical supervisor while pursuing a law degree to further her skills in championing youth. In this episode, we talk about: How to create proactive, sustainable self-care routines Why burnout is a systems issue, not a personal failure Simple ways to make your workspace more peaceful for you and your students The power of building a support system at work and at home What it means to reconnect with your "why" Joyce shares what a typical day looks like for her now: Seeing 2–3 private practice clients (individuals, couples, kids) Attending clinical supervision sessions with small counselor/social worker groups Reading (a lot!) for law school—she recommends Speechify for educators to save time Intentional self-care moments like unplugged lunch breaks, short naps, and reading for pleasure Her routine emphasizes boundaries, rest, and balance, something we can all learn from. Joyce’s biggest tip: Don’t wait to start taking care of yourself. Create a proactive self-care plan now, not once you hit burnout Give yourself grace and go slow; this work is a marathon, not a sprint Set boundaries around your time and energy (especially your lunch break!) Remember: You don't need to do everything all at once Connect with others who “get it” and lean on your community As Joyce puts it, "If you want to stay in schools, I want to help you stay in schools and make it sustainable." Don’t miss out! Want access to this session and more? Join the IMPACT membership to get all Summer Summit replays, monthly PD trainings, downloadable resources, and a community of fellow school counselors. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Joyce: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/37027350

252. Celebrating All Brains with Brandon Gernux 06/10/2025

252. Celebrating All Brains with Brandon Gernux Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! We’re just TWO days away from Summer Summit, my virtual conference for school counselors happening June 11th and 12th! This two-day event is packed with amazing topics, live Q&A sessions, and even a virtual happy hour. For just $39, you’ll get your seat at the summit plus your first month inside the IMPACT membership! Today I’m joined by Brandon Gernux (he/they), an elementary school counselor from Santa Ana, CA, and one of our Summer Summit speakers! Brandon brings such valuable insight into making Tier 1 classroom lessons more inclusive for all brains. He’s passionate about bridging the gap between school counseling and neurodivergent disability, and today’s conversation is all about practical ways to infuse anti-ableist, inclusive practices into your everyday counseling work. You’ll hear us talk about: What neurodiversity means and how to talk about it with students Why Tier 1 supports matter and how they can create a more inclusive school culture Brandon’s sensory exploration classroom lesson idea How to create sensory-safe spaces around your school Why you don’t need to do everything at once as a new counselor, and what to focus on instead Brandon is beginning a PhD in Education with an emphasis on Disability Studies this fall, and he is truly a thoughtful and inspiring voice in the counseling space. You’ll love hearing from him today and at Summer Summit! Don’t miss out! Want access to hundreds of counseling resources, monthly exclusive trainings (with PD certificates), and a supportive community of school counselors? My IMPACT membership gives you all of that and your ticket to my fourth annual Summer Summit! Learn more and join today by clicking the link below! Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Brandon: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36823925

251. Empowering Student Success Through Executive Functioning with Laura Filtness 06/03/2025

251. Empowering Student Success Through Executive Functioning with Laura Filtness Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! It’s June, which means Summer Summit is right around the corner. This is my virtual conference for school counselors happening June 11–12. We’re featuring an incredible lineup of speakers, live Q&A sessions, and even a happy hour! For just $39, you get your seat at the Summit and your first month of IMPACT. To celebrate, we’re featuring podcast guests throughout June and July who will be presenting at the Summit. Today, I’m joined by Laura Filtness—also known as the PAWSitive School Counselor! Laura shares her insights on using therapy dogs in schools, working with students on executive functioning, and what her day-to-day role looks like as a school counselor. Laura Filtness, M.Ed., is a seasoned school counselor based in Knoxville, TN, with over 15 years of experience. Known for her love of animals and her therapy dog Boss, Laura believes in the power of books and animals to support emotional growth and student connection. She has presented nationally on mindfulness, ADHD support, and classroom engagement, and holds multiple ASCA Specialist certifications. She is the author of the upcoming children’s book My Brain Is Like a Puppy, set to be released by Boys Town Press. When she’s not counseling, Laura teaches yoga and Pilates, renovates her home, and works for a home organization business called Help You Dwell. She also enjoys staying creative through writing and speaking engagements. In this episode, Laura shares: How she integrates therapy dogs into her counseling program and the thoughtful steps she takes to support students who may be afraid of dogs, including family communication, opt-out options, and classroom dog-safety lessons. A sneak peek into her Summer Summit session on helping students with executive functioning challenges. Laura explains the concept of “body doubling” and how it can be used in schools to help students initiate and complete tasks. She shares real-life examples, including how she supports first graders in their classrooms by modeling behaviors and reinforcing strategies. What a typical day looks like as a school counselor, especially in a split-school role. Laura walks us through her daily rhythm, ranging from morning announcements, classroom lessons, and small groups to drop-in sessions and time tracking at the end of the day. Her advice for new school counselors: Take the pressure off. Laura encourages new counselors to spend their first year observing, listening, and building relationships instead of trying to do everything at once. She also shares practical time management tips like habit stacking to create sustainable routines. The inspiration behind her upcoming books including how her therapy dog Boss has influenced her work and writing. Plus, how storytelling and picture books can be powerful tools for building empathy and social-emotional learning in any grade level. Join the IMPACT Membership Want access to hundreds of counseling resources, monthly exclusive trainings (with PD certificates), and a supportive community of school counselors? My IMPACT membership gives you all of that and your ticket to Summer Summit! Learn more and join today by clicking the link in the show notes. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: Connect with Laura: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36820670

250. Sessions Provided Data vs Student Progress Data 05/27/2025

250. Sessions Provided Data vs Student Progress Data Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! We’re wrapping up our May series on all things data with an important conversation on the two key types of data school counselors should be collecting for their end of the year reports: sessions provided data and student progress data. In this episode, I break down exactly what these two types of data are, how they help you advocate for your role, and how to collect and organize them simply and effectively. I’ll also share my favorite tools, from color-coded Google Calendars to self-assessments and behavior surveys, and how you can use them to show your impact and prepare for next year with confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between sessions provided data and student progress data How to use your Google Calendar to track sessions by student or group Tips for setting up a simple counseling log or sign-in sheet Why student self-assessments and behavior surveys are essential for tracking progress How this data supports advocacy and strengthens your counseling program Join the IMPACT Membership Want access to hundreds of counseling resources, monthly exclusive trainings (with PD certificates), and a supportive community of school counselors? My IMPACT membership gives you all of that—and more! Learn more and join today by clicking the link in the show notes. Don’t Miss Out: Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes, and if you’ve enjoyed this data series, I’d love to hear from you! Tag me on Instagram and share your biggest takeaway or how you're using your end-of-year report. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36624805

249. Why you should create an End of the Year Report 05/20/2025

249. Why you should create an End of the Year Report Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! This May, we’re diving into a series all about data: simple and practical ways to collect and use it as you wrap up the school year or begin planning for the next. So far this month, we’ve covered: How to collect data from Tier 1 classroom lessons How to gather meaningful insights from small groups and individual sessions Today, we’re talking all about creating an end of year report: a powerful tool that not only showcases your hard work but helps you advocate for your role and make strategic decisions for the future. In this episode, I’ll walk you through: The key components every end-of-year report should include How to gather and organize your data Why creating this report can transform the way stakeholders view your role How this tool helped elevate my own program (including a story about how a simple report led to a district-wide standard!) You’ll learn how to report on: The number of students served (broken down by type: small group, individual, classroom, etc.) Average time spent with students Lessons taught and classroom visit frequency School-wide initiatives you implemented (like career fairs or fundraisers) Professional development hours completed Time spent in meetings (IEPs, planning, etc.) Standout data pulled from self-assessments and behavior surveys Whether your goal is to reflect on what worked, communicate your impact to stakeholders, or simply feel more confident about your school year, you’ll leave this episode with actionable steps to get started. Want my End-of-Year Report Template? If you attended my live training last week, you already have it! If not, grab your copy in the show notes below so you can follow along and create a polished, powerful report. Don’t forget to share your reports with me! Tag me on Instagram so I can cheer you on! Join the IMPACT Membership Want access to hundreds of counseling resources, monthly exclusive trainings (with PD certificates), and a supportive community of school counselors? My IMPACT membership gives you all of that—and more! Learn more and join today by clicking the link in the show notes. Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s episode where we’ll explore how to track measurable data! Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36624765

248. How to track data in counseling small groups and individual sessions 05/13/2025

248. How to track data in counseling small groups and individual sessions Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! This May, we’re diving into a new series all about data—simple, practical ways to collect and use it as the school year wraps up or as you begin planning for the year ahead. Last week, we focused on Tier 1 services and how to collect data in your classroom lessons. This week, we’re shifting our attention to small groups and individual sessions. I’m walking you through my favorite ways to track meaningful data in these settings so that you can make informed, data-driven decisions and feel confident sharing progress with administrators and families. Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode: Self-assessments: Aligning pre- and post-assessments with your lesson objectives to measure student growth. Student rating scales: A 1–10 scale with visual aids to encourage honest reflection and spark meaningful conversations. Behavior surveys: Collecting insights from teachers and guardians to build a fuller picture of student progress and needs. You’ll also hear tips for: Using paper vs. digital forms (and when each is most effective) Promoting confidentiality in group settings Ensuring your assessments are relevant to what you’ve actually taught These strategies are easy to implement and will help you gather impactful data while keeping things simple. Don't Miss My FREE Live Training TODAY and TOMORROW! Join me for a free, live training where I’ll teach you how to use school counseling data to strengthen your program and advocate for your role. You’ll walk away with: A free data collection tool A PD certificate Practical strategies you can use right away Reserve your seat at Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the rest of our May data series. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36537405

247. How to track data in class counseling lessons 05/06/2025

247. How to track data in class counseling lessons Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! This May, we’re diving into a series all about data—simple, practical ways to collect and use it at the end of the year or while planning for the year ahead. In this episode, we're kicking things off with a focus on Tier 1 services: classroom lessons. As I sat down to record, I realized I’ve already shared a lot about this inside my course, Stress-Free School Counseling. So today, I’m sharing a helpful clip from the course that walks you through easy-to-use data tools that track student progress during class lessons. Want more support with classroom data collection? Check out the full course at Don’t Miss My FREE Live Training on May 13 & 14! This training will be all about how to use school counseling data to improve your program and advocate for your role. I’ll be sharing practical strategies to help you confidently measure student success and communicate your results with admin. You’ll receive: A free data collection tool A PD certificate Reserve your spot now at Quick & Easy Tier 1 Data Tools: 1. Ticket Out the Door Have students answer a quick question as they leave the classroom. This is very low prep and doesn’t take long! Open-ended questions Draw a shape Circle a letter 2. Thumbs up / middle / down This zero-prep tool offers a quick snapshot of student understanding and lesson engagement. Remember, this isn’t for display—it’s just for your reflection and improvement. 3. Kahoot Use this interactive game-based tool to collect real-time student data. Fun and competitive format You can customize your own quizzes Tracks correct/incorrect answers While it’s more prep-intensive, it’s a great way to engage students and check for understanding. 4. Self-Assessments Use pre- and post-lesson questions to assess your lesson’s effectiveness. Limit to 5 questions Can be done on paper or digitally (Google Forms is great for this) Includes timestamps and exportable data These are low- to medium-prep but incredibly helpful for tracking progress over time. Don’t forget: Next week is the FREE live training on how to use data to strengthen your counseling program and advocate for your role. Multiple time slots are available. Save your seat at Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the rest of our May data series. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Rachel: /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36430090

246. Sand tray for school counselors with Patti Sutherland 04/29/2025

246. Sand tray for school counselors with Patti Sutherland Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! April is all about expert guest sessions, and today I’m thrilled to be joined by Patti Sutherland. Patti holds a Master of Social Work, is a Certified Play Therapist Supervisor, and has over 30 years of experience working with children and families in both community and private practice settings. She currently works as a school social worker in Winnipeg, Canada, where she brings play therapy into schools, offers trainings, and creates valuable resources for school-based mental health professionals. In this episode, we dive deep into sand tray therapy—how it works, why it’s effective, and how you can use it even if you don’t consider yourself a play therapist. Whether you're brand new to this tool or looking to expand your counseling toolbox, Patti breaks it all down with practical advice and encouragement. Here’s what we cover: Why sand tray therapy isn’t as out-of-reach as it might seem How this method helps students feel more regulated, safe, and heard The power of metaphor and why it’s essential in child counseling Creative and accessible ways to introduce sand trays into 1:1 and small group sessions Real-world examples, like using sand tray for conflict mediation and storytelling What supplies to gather (hint: it's okay to collect slowly!) Patti’s best tips for new counselors who want to begin incorporating sand tray in their work Bonus: Patti shares details on her upcoming 2-day online Sand Tray Training for Elementary Schools, happening June 6–7, 2025! Get on the no-obligation waitlist here: 📧 Have questions? Want to connect? You can email Patti directly—she loves hearing from fellow counselors: [email protected] Whether you’re curious about the basics or looking to grow in your play therapy practice, this episode is a must-listen! Let’s get into it. Connect with Rachel: Connect with Patti: s for more info More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36294225

245. Why you should use picture books in school counseling with Laura Filtness 04/22/2025

245. Why you should use picture books in school counseling with Laura Filtness Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Throughout April, we’re featuring guest sessions with experts in the field, and today’s episode is especially exciting. I’m joined by Laura Filtness, M.Ed., a seasoned school counselor with over 15 years of experience and a passion for using picture books to support young minds in elementary settings. Laura’s belief in the power of storytelling shines through her work, and she’s also the author of the upcoming book My Brain Is Like a Puppy, inspired by her beloved therapy dog, Boss. In addition to counseling, Laura teaches yoga and Pilates, assists clients in home organization through Help You Dwell, and enjoys tackling renovation projects at home. She currently lives in Knoxville, Tennessee, with her two dogs, Brooklyn and Bindu. In this episode, Laura shares why picture books are such an effective tool in school counseling, both for proactive lesson planning and reactive student support. She talks about how a sticky note with a book title and a few theme ideas often serves as her simple yet flexible lesson plan. Having two or three potential discussion directions in mind allows her to pivot based on how students respond. This approach gives students space to take ownership of the conversation while making lessons feel natural and engaging. Laura also opens up about the organization system in her counseling office. For years, she used topic-based book bins and included printed companion resources stored in large Ziploc bags. After relocating to a smaller portable office, she adapted by placing hardcover books on a bookshelf and keeping thinner paperbacks in bins. Her adaptable system ensures that everything is accessible and categorized by topic for ease of use during lessons. We also dive into the logistics and philosophy behind running book clubs. While Laura prefers not to hold small groups during lunch, she makes exceptions depending on the group’s purpose. For example, a community-building group might work well during a “lunch bunch,” but more skills-based work is best saved for a designated small group time. Laura uses both chapter books and picture books and recommends series like those by Jory John, Todd Parr, Brenda Miles, Michael Ian Black, and the Way Past series. She shares that Scholastic is a great source for ordering multiple copies of books and encourages creativity, like using different titles in a picture book series. Laura also supports teachers through book clubs at the grade level. She often gifts teachers with books, especially ones she finds at thrift stores, and partners with the school librarian to display themed books during staff meetings. Her collaborative approach promotes a school-wide culture of literacy and social-emotional learning. When it comes to building your book collection, Laura suggests tapping into your librarian’s expertise by submitting a wishlist at the beginning of the year. She encourages the use of public libraries, which often allow you to request specific books. Other great sources include thrift stores, your counselor network, and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which offers families one free book per month for a year. While YouTube read-alouds are a decent backup, she stresses that nothing beats reading a book aloud in person. To keep track of her extensive book collection, Laura uses a cataloging system in Airtable. Inspired by Laura Driscoll, she created a searchable database of over 700 books organized by grade, topic, and type. This makes lesson planning more efficient and ensures she’s covering a wide range of student needs. You can find links to her Airtable in the show notes! For new counselors who are just beginning to integrate books into their lessons, Laura offers encouraging advice: don’t overthink it—just bring a book into your lesson and start asking questions. Prompt students with things like, “Have you ever felt this way?” or “What do you think the character learned?” Let students guide the discussion and make personal connections. If you’ve inherited a library, take inventory so you can assess which topics are covered and where you may need to grow your collection. Toward the end of the episode, Laura shares her journey of becoming a published author. She discusses the publishing process and the inspiration behind her new book My Brain Is Like a Puppy, a heartfelt project born from her experiences with her late therapy dog. She offers insight into what it’s like to submit to literary agencies and the steps it takes to bring a story to life. Picture books, she notes, are typically around 600 words and should be thoughtful, concise, and meaningful. This episode is full of practical takeaways and encouragement for counselors looking to bring more creativity and connection into their lessons through books. Laura’s insights make it clear that picture books aren’t just for young children—they’re powerful tools for every age. Connect with Rachel: Connect with Laura: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36238870

244. Advice for new school counselors with Ashley Bell 04/15/2025

244. Advice for new school counselors with Ashley Bell Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Throughout the month of April, I’m bringing you guest sessions with experts in the field, and today I’m excited to introduce Ashley Bell. Ashley is a dedicated school counselor with nearly ten years of experience, a curriculum writer, and the creative force behind Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor. She specializes in social-emotional learning and emotional regulation, creating engaging resources for educators, counselors, and parents that support children’s mental and emotional well-being. Through speaking engagements, webinars, workshops, and digital resources, Ashley’s mission is to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and the adults who support them. In this episode, Ashley shares practical advice specifically for new school counselors. She emphasizes the importance of observation in the early weeks of the school year. Rather than jumping in to make immediate changes, Ashley encourages new counselors to listen and learn about the school culture during the first month of school. Visiting classrooms and observing during lunch or recess can provide valuable insight into student behavior, peer dynamics, and overall school climate. These observations help counselors better understand classroom management styles, student needs, and areas of support. After the initial observation period, Ashley recommends meeting with your principal to discuss expectations and clarify how your role can best support the school. She reassures new counselors that progress doesn’t have to happen all at once—even implementing one classroom lesson within the first nine weeks is a great start. From there, counselors can begin developing a consistent schedule and consider launching small groups based on identified needs. She also suggests avoiding scheduling groups or lessons on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons, as these times can often be less effective. Another helpful strategy Ashley recommends is conducting a staff needs assessment before pushing one out to students. Staff members are often the most aware of behavioral trends and classroom needs, making them a great starting point for gathering data. This can guide counselors in planning relevant and effective services. She also mentions that doing a mid-year needs assessment can be useful once the school year has settled into a routine. When it comes to collaborating with parents and teachers, Ashley reminds us to be patient. It’s common for others to expect counselors to have all the answers, but it’s okay to set boundaries and be honest about what is and isn’t within your role. Simply listening and offering a supportive presence can be incredibly impactful. For lesson planning, Ashley recommends building lessons around a character trait of the month. Thinking about the year in smaller chunks can make planning more manageable and allow for deeper focus. Rather than trying to do everything at once, she encourages counselors to prioritize high-quality, intentional lessons that reflect the needs of their students. Growth and confidence will come with experience. One simple yet powerful tool Ashley uses with students is a quick check-in strategy. She asks students to hold up a one if they need a few minutes to breathe or a two if they’re ready to return to class. This nonverbal system gives anxious or overwhelmed students a way to communicate their needs without speaking, which can make a big difference in helping them feel safe and supported. This episode is full of practical, encouraging advice for new and seasoned counselors alike. Ashley’s insight provides a grounded and thoughtful approach to starting the school year strong and building meaningful, lasting support for students and staff. Be sure to check the show notes for links to Ashley’s resources and where you can connect with her online. Connect with Rachel: Connect with Ashley: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36127310

243. Data strategies every counselor needs with Patti Hoelzle 04/08/2025

243. Data strategies every counselor needs with Patti Hoelzle Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! All April long, I’m sitting down with amazing guest experts to bring you insight, encouragement, and practical tools for your school counseling practice. Today’s guest is the incredible Patti Hoelzle from Rooted Well, and we’re talking all about something many counselors shy away from… data. But don’t worry—Patti breaks it down in a way that’s simple, empowering, and exciting! Patti Hoelzle is the owner of Rooted WELL and a National Board Certified School Counselor with a passion for building proactive, equitable systems of student support. She trains and consults on mindfulness in schools, trauma-informed practices, tiered interventions, and PBIS, working with educators and families nationwide. A sought-after speaker, Patti has presented at local and national conferences and teaches as an adjunct professor in a school counseling graduate program. Previously, she led social-emotional learning and MTSS efforts in a school district and has spent 18 years dedicated to being a professional school counselor. Recognized as Washington’s 2021 School Counselor Advocate of the Year, Patti is dedicated to ensuring every student gets the whole-child support they deserve. Why Data Matters in School Counseling School counselors are in a unique position—we have to do the job, prove our impact, and often justify our position for the following school year. The good news? Data can do all three. Using data allows you to: Advocate for your role and time Communicate impact to stakeholders, families, and administration Support budget decisions and staffing Build confidence in your work Time Tracking as a Starting Point Patti recommends starting with one of the simplest tools: a time tracker. She’s created an Excel spreadsheet workbook that allows counselors to track: Time spent on individual students Tasks completed throughout the day Graphs and charts that automatically populate from your entries This is perfect for sharing with admin, staying accountable, and noticing patterns in how your time is spent. You can find this resource in Patti’s Teachers Pay Teachers store (linked in the show notes below). Using Google Tools for Easy Data Collection Another strategy Patti loves: Google Forms + the Google Suite. These tools are powerful for: Progress monitoring Sending surveys to students, teachers, and caregivers Collecting ongoing data during small groups Tracking changes in student behavior or academic progress And bonus—sending forms to caregivers via email often leads to higher participation rates than paper handouts. Advice for New Counselors Start small. Patti suggests: Begin with tracking your time, since it’s something you’re already doing Add in pre/post assessments once you’re in the groove Use tools that already exist—no need to reinvent the wheel A Mindset Shift: The Slow Cooker Analogy “Our work is like a slow cooker, not a microwave.” Counselors often wish for a quick fix, but real change takes time. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see growth right away. If your data isn’t showing growth: Don’t take it personally—there are many factors at play Use it as a learning opportunity Be willing to adapt and try new approaches Track student growth over time, especially with Tier 2 or Tier 3 students This conversation was such a great reminder that data doesn't have to be intimidating—it can actually empower us to better serve our students and advocate for ourselves. You can connect with Patti and find her time tracker and other amazing resources linked below in the show notes. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next week on School Counseling Simplified! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: Connect with Patti: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/36030415

242. How to "addiction proof" your students with Kriya Lendzion 04/01/2025

242. How to "addiction proof" your students with Kriya Lendzion Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! This month, I’m excited to bring you guest sessions with experts, and today’s episode is a special one. I have with me Kriya Lendzion, a school counselor turned prevention specialist who focuses on addiction prevention. Originally inspired by her personal journey through teen addiction, Kriya Lendzion is fiercely dedicated to helping educators prevent and intervene early in students’ addictive and self-destructive behaviors. She combines her 23 years as a School Counselor with additional expertise as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Prevention Specialist, and Adolescent Therapist, providing schools across the globe with drug and alcohol education, professional development, curriculum, and consultation. Kriya splits her time between beautiful Asheville, North Carolina and Glastonbury, Connecticut. We’re diving into how you can “addiction-proof” your students, covering everything from vaping to screens. Kriya’s work is rooted in both experience and expertise—she’s a former school counselor who has worked with diverse age groups, an addiction clinician, and now, a prevention specialist dedicated to helping schools implement effective drug education and early intervention strategies. Why Prevention Matters Students are constantly receiving messages that counteract what we teach about addiction. From social media to peer influence, they’re often told that addiction is harmless. Our job as educators and counselors is to speak louder, more often, and in ways that truly reach them. Kriya outlines five key categories that help schools establish effective addiction prevention programs: 1. Research-Based Information (Science-Based Education) Information needs to be accurate, research-backed, and tailored to students’ values and realities. Present information in a non-judgmental way—empowering students with knowledge and choice builds respect. Use passive reinforcement strategies like bulletin boards, signs, and classroom posters to keep prevention messaging visible. 2. Collaboration to Delay Substance Use Work across departments to help students delay substance use as long as possible. Curricular infusion: Integrate drug education into multiple subjects, making it a part of every student’s learning. Foster school connectedness so that every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Provide parent and family resources so that parents have the right knowledge to engage in open, informed conversations with their children. Involve administration and peer-led programs to create a whole-school prevention culture. 3. Teaching Resistance Skills Equip students with practical tools to say no to addiction before they face pressure. Weave prevention programming into classes and school activities. Use media and storytelling to make lessons relatable. Start early with age-appropriate discussions—even in kindergarten. Instill strong values and goals that help students make healthier choices. Encourage collaboration among teachers, counselors, and parents to reinforce these lessons. 4. Value Exploration Activities Help students identify their own values and how addiction could impact them. Use reflective activities to help students connect their goals and aspirations with their choices. 5. Addressing Adolescent Needs Understand that addiction often stems from unmet needs. Provide healthy alternatives and coping strategies to help students navigate stress, emotions, and peer pressure. Final Thoughts Kriya’s insights highlight the importance of proactive prevention strategies in schools. By implementing these five categories, we can empower students with knowledge, skills, and support to make healthy choices. If you’d like to learn more about Kriya’s work, be sure to check out the links in the show notes. Thank you for tuning in, and I’ll see you next week for another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: Connect with Kriya: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35935745

241. One Data Tool You Should Use in March 03/25/2025

241. One Data Tool You Should Use in March Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! I love following themes on the podcast, and for the month of March, I’m taking you through my lesson plans step by step! Over the past few weeks, we’ve talked about how to use a curriculum map to organize what you’re teaching across each tier. I love using a curriculum map because it keeps everything structured and helps ensure you’re covering essential topics. My IMPACT members receive these maps so they know exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to implement each lesson—complete with all the resources included! If you’re a podcast listener and want to try out a curriculum map for yourself, head to the resources section to grab your full-year lesson plans. If you haven’t already, make sure to go back and listen to this month’s episodes on Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 resources. Today, we’re shifting our focus to data tools—specifically, self-assessments! What Are Self-Assessments? Self-assessments are short quizzes that students complete before and after counseling sessions. These tools help measure student growth by tracking their understanding of key skills. Here’s how they work: Students complete a pre-assessment before the first counseling session. They complete a post-assessment after the final session. The assessments include statements with response options (Yes, Maybe, or No). For example, if you’re running a small group on academic skills, your self-assessment might include statements like: I can identify several test-taking strategies. I am prepared for class. I know what it means to procrastinate. I recommend using 7 to 10 statements and ensuring that you are actively teaching these concepts during your sessions. The goal is that students demonstrate improvement in their post-assessment, showing they’ve gained a stronger understanding of the skills you taught. Why Use Self-Assessments? Self-assessments provide measurable data that can be shared with administrators, parents, and other stakeholders. They help determine: If a student is ready to graduate from counseling. If a group needs re-teaching as a whole. If individual students need additional support in specific areas. Every decision we make as school counselors should be data-driven. Using self-assessments helps you build confidence in your role and demonstrate the impact of your counseling program. Organizing Your Self-Assessment Data You can use paper-based self-assessments or create digital versions for easier data management. A great option is to use QR codes and Google Forms, which allow responses to autopopulate into pie charts for a clear visual representation of student progress. This makes it easy to track growth and share results with stakeholders. Access More Resources All the strategies I’ve covered this month, including self-assessment templates, are available to IMPACT members. If you’re an IMPACT member, make sure you’re taking advantage of these resources! If you’re not yet a member, IMPACT is my monthly membership for school counselors—designed to make your life easier by providing free access to all my TPT resources, professional development, support, and more! Learn more by checking out the links below. And before you go, today is the LAST day to sign up for my free training! Ever wondered, “Why are my students so anxious, and how can I help them beyond just deep breathing exercises?” You’re not alone! I wanted to go beyond the basics and dive into the psychological cycles of stress—and now I have a FREE training for you! Many counselors ask me how they can better support students with test anxiety beyond simple deep breathing exercises. I wanted to go beyond the basics and dive into the psychological cycles of stress, which led me to create a free live training called Help Students Break the Stress Cycle: The Anxiety Management Tool You Didn't Learn in Grad School! This training will empower you with new strategies to help students manage stress effectively. You can save your seat at . Thank you for tuning in, and I’ll see you next week for another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35725840

240. Facilitating Divorce Counseling Sessions with Ease 03/18/2025

240. Facilitating Divorce Counseling Sessions with Ease Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. This month, I’ve been taking you through my lesson plans step by step to help you feel more organized and confident in your school counseling program. Over the past few weeks, we’ve talked about using a curriculum map to plan lessons across all three tiers. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the previous episodes on Tier 1 and Tier 2 resources. I love using a curriculum map because it keeps everything structured and organized. My IMPACT members get full access to these maps, allowing them to see exactly what to teach, when to teach it, and how to implement it, along with all the necessary resources. If you’re a podcast listener and want to try out the curriculum map for yourself, head to the resources section below to get lesson plans for the entire year. Today, we’re diving into Tier 3 individual counseling, which is typically referral-based. A common reason for referrals is divorce or separation, which can be incredibly traumatic for children. In this episode, I’m sharing individual counseling strategies to help students process and cope with this major life change. You can spread these activities across multiple sessions or focus on them in a single session, depending on what best fits your student’s needs. Individual Counseling Activities for Divorce Before and After Activity: Have students illustrate what their life looked like before and after their parents' divorce, then use the drawings as a conversation starter. Living Arrangement Calendar & Packing Checklist: Help students create a visual calendar of their new living arrangements. Discuss their feelings and help them prepare a packing checklist so they feel more secure and in control. Banana Split Coping Activity: Either make real banana splits or craft a banana split model to introduce different coping strategies. Each topping represents a coping skill, such as exercising, listening to music, journaling, or talking to a trusted adult. Journaling: Depending on the student’s age, you can use open-ended journaling, guided prompts, visual sorting activities, or structured lists to help them express their thoughts and emotions. Coping Skills Toolbox: Work together to create a personalized toolbox of strategies the student can use when feeling overwhelmed. The student can label the individual tools with coping strategies such as: breathing exercises, sensory tools, or calming techniques. Tracking Progress: Individual Counseling Data Tools It’s essential to track progress in individual counseling. Use self-assessments and gather behavioral data from parents and teachers to measure whether the intervention is effective. This data can help determine if the student is making progress or if additional support is needed. I hope these ideas give you a solid starting point for supporting students navigating divorce or separation. If you’re looking for more structured plans and resources, check out the IMPACT membership or grab the free curriculum map in the links below. Thank you for joining me, and I’ll see you next week for another step in simplifying your school counseling program! Ever wondered, “Why are my students so anxious, and how can I help them beyond just deep breathing exercises?” You’re not alone! I wanted to go beyond the basics and dive into the psychological cycles of stress—and now I have a FREE training for you! Many counselors ask me how they can better support students with test anxiety beyond simple deep breathing exercises. I wanted to go beyond the basics and dive into the psychological cycles of stress, which led me to create a free live training called Help Students Break the Stress Cycle: The Anxiety Management Tool You Didn't Learn in Grad School! This training will empower you with new strategies to help students manage stress effectively. You can save your seat at . If you are looking for additional resources, you can find my free curriculum map and learn more about my IMPACT membership in the links below. I hope this episode helps you plan your Tier 2 small groups with confidence. Stay tuned as we continue step-by-step lesson planning this month. Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35724760

239. Why March is the perfect time to teach an academic skills group 03/11/2025

239. Why March is the perfect time to teach an academic skills group Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! I love following themes on the podcast, and for the month of March, I’m taking you through my lesson plans STEP by STEP! Last week, we covered Tier 1 strategies, and today, we’re diving into Tier 2 small groups! Why Use a Curriculum Map? I LOVE using a curriculum map to stay organized—it helps you know what to do, when to do it, and how to do it, plus it includes all the resources you need! My IMPACT members get full access to this, along with all my TPT resources for free. If you're a podcast listener, you can try out the curriculum map and get lesson plans for the entire year—just check the resources section below! Since testing season is approaching, now is a great time to form an academic skills group to help students feel prepared and confident. These groups provide strategies for test-taking success and help reduce testing anxiety. My small groups typically last 8 weeks and are FULL of activities, but here are a couple that I would recommend! Icebreakers & Activities Test-Taking Tips Matching Game – Review and reflect on actual test-taking strategies in a fun, interactive way. Prepared or Procrastinator Board Game – A game where students land on a “Prepared” or “Procrastinator” card and discuss the scenario before moving forward or backward. This helps reinforce the importance of study habits and time management. Ever wondered, “Why are my students so anxious, and how can I help them beyond just deep breathing exercises?” You’re not alone! I wanted to go beyond the basics and dive into the psychological cycles of stress—and now I have a FREE training for you! Many counselors ask me how they can better support students with test anxiety beyond simple deep breathing exercises. I wanted to go beyond the basics and dive into the psychological cycles of stress, which led me to create a free live training called Help Students Break the Stress Cycle: The Anxiety Management Tool You Didn't Learn in Grad School! This training will empower you with new strategies to help students manage stress effectively. You can save your seat at . If you are looking for additional resources, you can find my free curriculum map and learn more about my IMPACT membership in the links below. I hope this episode helps you plan your Tier 2 small groups with confidence. Stay tuned as we continue step-by-step lesson planning this month. Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35605585

238. Class Lesson Ideas for March 03/04/2025

238. Class Lesson Ideas for March Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! I love following themes on the podcast, and for the month of March, I’m taking you through my lesson plans STEP by STEP! Having a structured plan leads to less stress, less last-minute scrambling, and more time focusing on students. While every counselor’s approach will be unique, I’ve found that creating a curriculum map for the entire year and breaking down my monthly plans by tier has been incredibly helpful. These lesson plans are based on trends I’ve noticed and what typically works during this time of year, but of course, your plans will shift depending on your students' needs. My goal is to give you ideas and inspiration for your own program! Grab my FREE curriculum map & plans in the resource section below to help you plan the remainder of this year! Want ready-to-go lesson plans each month? Check out my IMPACT membership—members get instant access to all my resources and step-by-step lesson plans. Learn more in the links below! Tier 1 Lesson Plan for March: Self-Regulation The second semester is a great time to revisit emotional recognition and self-regulation strategies. One of my favorite ways to teach this is using "temperatures" to help students gauge their emotions. Lesson Breakdown: Icebreaker: Introduce the concept using a "temperature check" (cool = calm and ready to learn, hot = angry, overwhelmed, or high-energy). Have students act out different temperatures/zones to engage them physically and set the tone for the lesson. Discussion Activity: Conduct a gallery walk with images of kids in different emotional states. Students move around the room and identify which emotions/temperatures each image represents. Main Activity: Introduce coping strategies and split students into small groups. Each group learns about a different self-regulation strategy (deep breathing, talking it out, etc.) and teaches it to the class. Reflection: Wrap up with a self-reflection journal prompt to help students process what they learned. I hope this helps you plan your March lessons with confidence! Stay tuned as I continue breaking down my step-by-step lesson plans this month. Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35516935

237. Creative Ways to Use Digital Counseling Resources 02/25/2025

237. Creative Ways to Use Digital Counseling Resources Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Last week, we talked about paperless counseling resources that you can use in your individual lessons—but they weren’t digital! If you haven’t had a chance to listen to that episode, I know you’re going to love it, so go back and check it out! Today, we’re diving into creative ways to use digital resources for student lessons. Many of us were introduced to digital tools during COVID, and now, whether we choose to use them or not varies. No matter where you stand, I want to show you how digital resources can enhance your counseling lessons and engage your students. Benefits of Using Digital Resources: Engaging – Tech-savvy kids feel comfortable and confident with digital resources, making lessons more interactive and helping students retain concepts. Paperless – Low prep, making it easier on you! Flexible – Digital tools allow you to change up your learning space. If you have tablets, take them outside for a new environment! 5 Digital Resource Ideas & How to Use Them: Boom Cards – My favorite! Quick-play, interactive activities that allow students to push buttons for answers. Great for true/false or coping skill games! Google Slides – Perfect for drag-and-drop activities like coping skill toolboxes or typing out responses. Game Shows – Jeopardy-style games for lessons like tattling vs. reporting or a "Meet the Counselor" game. Board Games – Project a digital game board on a screen and use physical manipulatives for engagement. Kahoot – Quiz-style games to assess student understanding in a fun, competitive way. How to Incorporate Digital Resources Across Learning Tiers: Ice Breakers – Use at the start of a class lesson to engage students and deter unwanted behaviors. Example: Boom Cards on coping strategies to assess what students already know. Core Lesson – Digital tools can serve as the main lesson, keeping students engaged while teaching a specific skill. Example: A full lesson on I-statements for conflict resolution or a digital "Meet the Counselor" game. Review Game – Use digital tools to reinforce and assess what students have learned. Example: Empathy Boom Cards as a post-assessment. Tips for Engaging the Whole Class: Get students moving—have them come up and touch the game board. Use physical dice or manipulatives alongside digital resources. Divide students into teams for friendly competition (this works great for a "Meet the Counselor" game!). Small Group & Individual Use: Small Groups – Play individually or together to build connections and reinforce group lessons. Individual Sessions – Customize activities to build rapport with students and personalize their learning. Homework & Family Engagement – Assign digital activities as take-home tasks to involve families in the learning process. I hope these ideas inspire you to incorporate digital tools into your counseling sessions in a way that feels engaging and effective! As always, feel free to message me on Instagram or send me an email with any questions. Check the show notes for links to my favorite digital resources! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35239965

236. Paperless Individual Counseling 02/18/2025

236. Paperless Individual Counseling Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! Today, we’re diving into paperless individual counseling strategies—low-prep, hands-on activities that are perfect for busy counselors who need quick, engaging solutions. Next week, I’ll be discussing digital resources, but today, I’m focusing on interactive, in-person techniques that increase student engagement. Engagement is a key factor in helping students meet their counseling goals, as it keeps them interested and actively involved in the learning process. As counselors, our role is short-term and solution-focused, so let’s explore some creative ways to make each session both effective and memorable. Hands-On Activities for Student Engagement 1. Role Play with Figurines Use toys like dolls, cars, dinosaurs, or any small objects available. Helps students externalize feelings and start conversations naturally. Provides a non-threatening way to discuss emotions. 2. Role Play with Chairs The "Empty Chair Technique" allows students to talk to an imaginary person, which is helpful for grief counseling or conflict resolution. Students can rehearse conversations and gain new perspectives. Can also be used with two students switching seats to see different viewpoints. 3. Play Dough or Modeling Clay Great for younger students as a hands-on way to express emotions. Can be used to create emotional faces or role-play scenarios. Simply playing with the dough can be a stress reliever. 4. Ball Toss Activity A beach ball works well since it can be deflated when not in use. Add conversation starter stickers to each section of the ball. Toss the ball back and forth to encourage discussion. 5. Lego Provides a distraction that encourages sharing. Helps ease intimidation in one-on-one sessions. Can be used for role-playing or as an analogy (e.g., "building blocks of friendship"). 6. Jenga Write discussion prompts on the blocks to personalize the activity. Can be used as an analogy for building up trust, relationships, or personal growth. 7. Soda Can Anger Activity Shake a can of soda as students describe situations that make them angry. When opened, it creates a visual representation of anger exploding. Engaging, memorable, and effective in anger management sessions. 8. Volcano Experiment Use clay, baking soda, and vinegar to demonstrate how anger builds and erupts. Great for anger management groups or individual sessions. 9. Dry Erase Boards or Etch A Sketch Teach negative thought patterns and growth mindset. Have students write negative thoughts and erase them to symbolize change. 10. Music Playlists Have students create a playlist of songs that help them with different emotions (sadness, anger, calming, motivation). Can be a great coping strategy or "get to know you" activity. 11. Food as a Conversation Starter Use different colored snacks to represent emotions. Be mindful of allergens and sugar content. 12. Plants as a Growth Analogy Students can care for a plant over time, learning how friendships and personal growth require nurturing. Can serve as an attendance motivator or a take-home gift. I hope you found these ideas helpful and feel inspired to try them in your counseling sessions! Let me know how they work for you—reply to my emails or send me a message on Instagram. See you next week for more digital resource ideas! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35238760

235. Counseling Lesson Ideas for Valentine's Day 02/11/2025

235. Counseling Lesson Ideas for Valentine's Day Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! Today, I’m sharing some Valentine’s Day-themed activities you can use with your students. I love using seasonal themes in counseling, and February is the perfect time to focus on topics like: Healthy vs. unhealthy friendships and relationships Friendship skills Conflict resolution These activities are engaging, discussion-based, and easy to implement—whether you’re working with a whole class, small group, or one-on-one sessions. Let’s dive in. Healthy vs. Unhealthy Friendships and Relationships This is an important topic because students only know what has been modeled for them. It’s essential to be explicit in teaching these skills and help students recognize healthy vs. unhealthy behaviors. Activity Ideas: Discussion Cards/Prompts: Great for small groups or one-on-one sessions Friendship Sort: Example—You feel happy and encouraged after spending time with a friend (healthy) “Talk About a Time…” Scenarios: Encourages students to share personal experiences True or False Statements: Helps clarify common misconceptions Relationship-Focused Discussions for Older Students: Ensure age-appropriate conversations These activities serve as a starting point for deeper, more meaningful discussions. Conflict Resolution Since friendship and conflict resolution go hand in hand, it’s helpful to teach students practical skills for managing disagreements. Activity Ideas: I-Statements for Role Play: Teach students to express their feelings constructively (e.g., “I feel sad when you didn’t talk to me at lunch today…”) Different Conflict Resolution Strategies: Discuss how to respond using humor, compromise, or asking for help Friendship Activities For younger students, interactive and hands-on activities make learning about friendship fun and memorable. Activity Ideas: Friendship Pizza Craft: Each “slice” represents a quality of a good friend Friendship Soup Activity: There is a great YouTube video on this concept—bring in a pot and a salt shaker to act it out Check the show notes for links to additional resources if you prefer ready-to-use materials. I hope you have a great Valentine’s Day! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35161095

234. How to Source Lesson Topics and Choose Engaging and Effective Activities 02/04/2025

234. How to Source Lesson Topics and Choose Engaging and Effective Activities Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified! Today, I’m sharing another training clip from my IMPACT membership PD—a monthly professional development training I offer exclusively to our community of nearly 1,000 school counselors. As an IMPACT member, you get unlimited access to my TPT resources, engaging PD, and a supportive network of counselors just like you! In this episode, we’re diving into how to source lesson topics for your tiered instruction—whether it’s class lessons, small groups, or individual sessions. You don’t have to start from scratch! By using data, needs assessments, and creative themes, you can make your lessons both impactful and engaging. Ways to Source Lesson Topics for Each Tier Use Needs Assessments & Data Look at referral data to identify common struggles. Conduct an informal teacher survey throughout the year. Gather feedback from your principal on key student challenges (behavior, academics, attendance). Utilize pre- and post-assessments to measure student growth and share progress with admin. Use the Calendar for Inspiration Holidays & Seasons: Incorporate themes like gratitude in November or kindness in February. Awareness Months: October (Bullying Prevention), May (Mental Health Awareness), etc. Review Existing Curriculum Modify school-provided curriculum to fit student needs. Supplement with engaging activities, games, and interactive lessons. Use Books to Anchor Lessons Anchoring lessons to books is a great way to introduce counseling themes! Laura from Pawsitive School Counselor is a fantastic resource for book recommendations. ✨ Want more strategies like this? Join IMPACT for exclusive PD, unlimited access to my TPT resources, and a thriving counselor community! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/35082235

233. What EXACTLY You Should Be Doing at Each Tier 01/28/2025

233. What EXACTLY You Should Be Doing at Each Tier Welcome to another episode of School Counseling Simplified (SCS)! Today we’re continuing our Tiers Without Tears series with practical strategies for organizing, scheduling, and delivering Tier 1, 2, and 3 interventions. This episode is a special clip from a recent training I did for my membership community, IMPACT, where we dive deep into monthly professional development. Let’s break down what EXACTLY you should be doing at each tier to streamline your work and create meaningful outcomes for your students. Layered Interventions: Understanding the Tiers Tier 1: Whole-School Support Audience: All students. Schedule: Each class gets a 30-minute lesson once a month. Challenges: Scheduling conflicts, time management, and communication. Solution: Use tools like Calendly to create a booking system for teachers to schedule their lessons for the entire year in advance. This keeps everyone accountable and eliminates last-minute stress. Lesson Plan Structure: Introduction Icebreaker Whole-class discussion or activity Small-group breakout activity Written reflection Tier 2: Small Groups Audience: Students referred for specific needs (e.g., conflict resolution, self-regulation, social skills). Group Size: 4-6 students grouped by age and need. Duration: Weekly 30-minute sessions for 6-8 weeks. Data: Use pre- and post-assessments to measure progress and inform next steps. Planning Structure: Establish rules and expectations. Feelings check (use visual aids). Icebreaker activity (e.g., bingo, Jenga, or sides of the room). Main activity (e.g., role-play, board games, cut-and-sort). Reflection (journal entry or discussion). Scheduling Tip: Gather referrals, send home permission slips, and coordinate with teachers to find mutually ideal times. Tier 3: Individual Support Audience: Students requiring one-on-one sessions for more intensive support. Duration: 30-minute sessions, tailored to individual needs. Focus: Build rapport, address specific challenges, and practice personalized strategies. Tips for Success at Each Tier Hyper-Organize: Use lesson outlines to stay on track and manage your time effectively. Engage Students: Incorporate games, breakout activities, and reflection to keep sessions interactive and impactful. Streamline Scheduling: Avoid overwhelm by automating processes and setting clear boundaries. Measure Progress: Use data-driven strategies to guide your interventions and demonstrate success. Actionable Takeaways Plan ahead: Schedule Tier 1 lessons for the year to minimize chaos. Stay flexible: Build buffers for travel time and transitions. Engage intentionally: Keep activities interactive and age-appropriate. Use data: Pre- and post-assessments are key to measuring impact. Need more support? Check out the IMPACT membership community for exclusive trainings, resources, and tools to simplify your school counseling journey! Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/34957790

232. Tiers without Tears: Small Groups and Individual Sessions 01/21/2025

232. Tiers without Tears: Small Groups and Individual Sessions Welcome back to the Tiers Without Tears series! Last week, we dove into Tier 1 class lessons. This week, we’re tackling Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports—referral-based interventions designed to meet more targeted student needs. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by these tiers, this episode will break them down into manageable, actionable steps! Key Points Covered in This Episode: Tier 2 and Tier 3 Basics Referral Process: Use a referral form to gather key details about the student’s needs, the referring party, and the severity of the concern. Print and distribute forms throughout the school (teacher mailboxes, office, library) and have a digital option. Identifying Trends: Use referral data to spot patterns (e.g., multiple referrals for self-regulation in 3rd grade). Trends help guide the formation of Tier 2 small groups or determine when Tier 3 one-on-one support is needed. Small Groups: Anatomy and Structure Schedule: Weekly 30-minute sessions for 6-8 weeks. Use pre- and post-assessments (self-assessments, teacher/parent surveys) to measure progress. Session Structure: Icebreaker: Build rapport and create a safe space. Discussion: Use tools like question cards, Jenga prompts, or a beach ball activity. Main Activity: Focus on the group’s specific needs (e.g., sorting healthy vs. unhealthy friendships). Reflection: Journaling or verbal sharing to process the session. Individual Sessions Similar structure to small groups but more focused. Incorporate interactive activities like board games to build connection and engagement. Takeaways for Implementing Tier 2 and Tier 3 Support: Gather referrals intentionally. Stay organized with data-driven planning. Start small, and prioritize impact over perfection. Free Training Announcement! Feeling overwhelmed by the semester? Join me for a free live training on how to thrive, not just survive when it comes to planning for those tiers of instruction! When: Tonight, January 21 at 6 PM EST, and tomorrow, January 22 at 1 PM EST. Where: What You’ll Get: A planning and curriculum map, plus a PD certificate of attendance. Tune in to feel more confident and equipped to handle Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports with ease! 🎧✨ Resources mentioned: If you are enjoying School Counseling Simplified please Connect with Rachel: More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on , , , and more! /episode/index/show/schoolcounselingsimplified/id/34870400

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