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.

275. Behind the Scenes of Successful Individual Counseling Sessions 11/18/2025

275. Behind the Scenes of Successful Individual Counseling Sessions Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on what really makes individual counseling sessions effective, engaging, and purposeful. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to do in these sessions or overwhelmed by how to track student progress, this episode is packed with practical, ready-to-use strategies. Individual counseling is an important Tier 3 support that allows you to provide targeted, personalized intervention. With the right tools and structure, these sessions can feel manageable and meaningful. Why Individual Counseling Matters Individual counseling is an essential component of a layered support system. These sessions provide space to work one-on-one with students who need more intensive intervention. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to identify students through referral systems How group counseling can help you determine which students may benefit from individual support Why individual sessions allow for deeper rapport and tailored intervention Quick Wins for Tracking Data Data collection does not have to be complicated or time-consuming. This episode highlights simple tools you can implement immediately, including: A 30-second student rating scale Thumbs-up or thumbs-down check-ins Quick data points that help you make informed decisions and track growth These small, consistent data practices keep you from guessing what students need and allow you to confidently measure progress. How to Engage Students in Individual Counseling Engagement is key for successful sessions. This episode shares a variety of activities, strategies, and tools you can use to keep students motivated and open. Feelings Check-ins Model emotional vocabulary Use the Zones of Regulation Incorporate visuals Rapport-Building Activities Get-to-Know-You Jenga Peak and Pit Genograms Discussion or interview cards Hands-On and Creative Activities Digging Deep activities Personalized social stories Crafts such as coping skills toolboxes Board games Task cards Art projects Modifications for Younger Students Increased hands-on activities Use of play dough Dolls and characters for storytelling Verbal reflections instead of written prompts These strategies help students express themselves, stay engaged, and build meaningful connections. Reflection Tools for Closing Sessions Reflection helps students internalize their learning and practice self-awareness. Inside the episode, we explore: Journaling Reflection sheets Interview-style verbal reflections Open-ended questions that support closure Using Data to Track Student Progress Meaningful data guides your decisions and supports your advocacy efforts. You will learn how to use: Student rating scales Self-assessments Behavior surveys from teachers and caregivers This data helps you determine next steps, identify patterns, strengthen communication with stakeholders, and build year-end reports or data walls that demonstrate the impact of your counseling program. Additional Tips Provide clear examples for students Prepare materials in advance Maintain consistent session structure Balance conversation with activities 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/38900495

274. Behind the Scenes of Successful Small Groups 11/11/2025

274. Behind the Scenes of Successful Small Groups Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of successful small groups and sharing how to set them up for success. We’ll talk about how to engage your students, keep sessions organized, and measure their progress with ease. Small groups are a key Tier 2 intervention and an important part of a layered approach to student support. In this episode, you’ll learn everything you need to know to start and lead small groups with confidence. How to Set Up Counseling Groups Identify students using referrals, previous counseling data, or needs assessments. Choose group size (4–6 students is ideal) and keep age and behavioral needs in mind. Plan for 6–8 sessions, around 30 minutes each, and consider holidays or school events when scheduling. Set up a welcoming group space with privacy for journaling and reflection. Send home permission slips and coordinate schedules with teachers. Organize your materials: individual folders, crafts, worksheets, sign-in sheets, and a group folder with rules and games. Keep a digital spreadsheet or counseling log to track attendance and progress. How to Lead Engaging Small Groups Begin each session with group rules and a feelings check. Focus on what students should do rather than what they shouldn’t. Incorporate icebreakers like bingo, Jenga, “sides of the room,” or Simon Says to build connection and teamwork. Introduce your main concept with a mini-lesson, video, or poster. Use interactive activities like role play, crafts, flipbooks, sorting games, or discussion cards. End with a journal reflection or quick self-assessment to encourage personal growth and track student progress. By creating structured yet flexible small groups, you can provide meaningful support and help students grow socially and emotionally. 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/38900455

273. Behind the Scenes of Successful Class Lessons 11/04/2025

273. Behind the Scenes of Successful Class Lessons Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today we are going behind the scenes to talk about how to create engaging class lessons that keep students interested and make your counseling program run smoothly all year long. 1. How to Map Out Lessons for the Year Start by looking at your school calendar and noting upcoming dates, themes, and holidays. For example, October is Bullying Prevention Month, which is a great time to plan related lessons. Review your referral data and needs assessment responses to identify key areas of focus. Check what curriculum your school already uses, such as Second Step, and build from there. You can also base lessons around books to make topics more engaging. Planning tip: Repurpose content across multiple grade levels to save time and stay consistent. 2. How to Create Lessons Using a Simple Framework Use this five-step framework for 20–30 minute lessons: Icebreaker (5 minutes): Start with a fun, short activity to grab attention. Lesson (10 minutes): Teach the main concept or skill. Discussion (5 minutes): Have students talk in pairs, groups, or as a class. Reflect/Review: Leave time for students to write, draw, or journal about what they learned. Data Collection: Use quick self-assessments to measure understanding. Planning tip: Repurpose small group or individual activities by slightly modifying them for classroom use. 3. How to Get Creative Make lessons interactive by incorporating elements such as Scoot Games, Escape Rooms, Digital Game Shows, Breakout Groups, or PowerPoint and Google Slides presentations. These activities help reinforce learning and keep students engaged. 4. How to Engage Students with Movement Movement keeps students focused and helps with participation. Add movement to your icebreakers, activities, and discussions with ideas like: Sides of the room Simon Says Stand up and sit down Role play Charades Beach ball toss or jumbo discussion die By intentionally planning, getting creative, and incorporating movement, you can design classroom lessons that are fun, effective, and memorable. Tune in to this episode to hear how I use these strategies step-by-step to make classroom lessons engaging and stress-free! 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/38900420

272. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Teaching Self-Advocacy 10/28/2025

272. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Teaching Self-Advocacy Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Throughout October, we have been exploring practical bullying prevention strategies, and today we are wrapping up the series with a focus on teaching self-advocacy. While this may seem like a more reactive approach, it is an essential skill that helps students navigate challenges with confidence. In this episode, we explore three simple ways to help students learn to advocate for themselves and others: Practice Scripts Provide students with sample scripts they can use in real-life situations. Watch short videos together, then practice through role play in small groups or class lessons. This gives students a chance to apply what they learn and build communication skills in a safe environment. Self-Esteem Affirmations Encourage students to use positive self-talk that supports their confidence. Have them create affirmation cards or write encouraging messages on sticky notes to remind themselves of their strengths and worth. Advocating for Others Teach students to be upstanders rather than bystanders. Traditional bullying prevention lessons can be adapted to show students how to recognize when someone needs help and how to take safe, supportive action. Tune in to learn how you can incorporate self-advocacy into your counseling lessons and empower your students to stand up for themselves and others. 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/38591325

271. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Friendship Skills 10/21/2025

271. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Friendship Skills Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! October is Bullying Prevention Month, and throughout the month I’ll be sharing some replays of our best episodes focused on strategies to prevent bullying in schools. In today’s episode, we’re diving into friendship skills — an essential foundation for creating a kind, connected, and inclusive school culture. I’ll be sharing ideas you can use at every level: schoolwide, classroom, small group, and individual. Schoolwide Strategies Buddy Bench (Elementary Level): Transform an existing bench at recess into a “Buddy Bench.” When a student feels lonely or doesn’t have anyone to play with, they can sit there to signal they’re looking for a friend. Other students are encouraged to approach, sit with them, or invite them to join in play. Mix It Up at Lunch Day (Middle School Level): Help reduce lunchroom anxiety by encouraging students to sit somewhere new for a day. This activity helps them meet new peers and break out of their usual social circles. Assigned Recess Groups: Rotate groups of students to play or interact together, fostering connections between kids who might not usually spend time with one another. Classroom Strategies Friendship Lessons: Lead a class discussion or activity around the qualities of a good friend versus the qualities of a not-so-good friend. This sets the tone for healthy peer relationships and respectful communication. Small Group Strategies Friendship Discussions: Talk about what makes a good friend and how good friends act. Friendship Dice Game: Use discussion prompts such as “What do you love about your friends?” or “What annoys you about your friends?” to spark meaningful conversations. Conflict Resolution Practice: Teach students to use “I” statements to express their feelings and resolve friendship conflicts. Scenario Cards: Role-play different social situations to help students problem-solve and practice empathy. Individual Counseling Strategies Scripts and Role Plays: Work one-on-one with students to build their social confidence. The goal is to help them gain the skills they need to transition into small group or class activities successfully. 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/38511335

270. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Conflict Resolution Strategies 10/14/2025

270. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Conflict Resolution Strategies Welcome back to School Counseling Simplified. Since October is Bullying Prevention Month, this episode focuses on practical conflict resolution strategies you can use at the schoolwide, classroom, and small group levels. If you have not listened to last week’s episode on restorative circles, start there for helpful background on resolution circles and community-based approaches. Today we build on that foundation with tangible tools you can use right away to help students resolve, forgive, and repair relationships. What you will learn in this episode How to use classroom-based activities to teach conflict resolution skills A simple script for I statements that students can use to express feelings and seek solutions Engagement strategies for role play, discussion, and practice Small group activities and curricula that support peer problem solving Steps to take when a student is referred to you after a conflict Classroom strategies Talk it out circle Use a classroom circle where two students resolve a conflict in front of their peers while the teacher or counselor facilitates a respectful discussion. This model teaches the whole class how to listen, reflect, and offer support. Counselor push-ins Join the classroom for a lesson or mediation session, while the teacher and student exit the classroom to resolve a conflict. I statement lessons Teach a simple I statement script: name the emotion, describe the incident, explain how it made you feel, and suggest a next step toward resolution. Use dry erase boards with fill-in-the-blank templates for practice. Post I statement language on classroom walls and in common areas so students have visible reminders. Role play and scenario practice Break students into small groups and use scenario cards to role play common friendship conflicts. Incorporate charades, fishbowl exercises, or paired practice to make skills stick. Small group ideas Run a conflict resolution group using discussion dice or conversation cards to guide reflection. Include hands-on activities or crafts that reinforce communication skills and empathy. Consider curricula like Kelso’s Choices to teach problem-solving options for peer conflicts. When students are referred after a conflict Start by identifying the source of the conflict. Ask why this keeps happening and what the underlying triggers are. Take time to get a full picture before deciding on a plan so you do not cycle through the same issues repeatedly. Use data from observations, teacher input, and student self-report to refine your intervention. Action steps you can take today Teach and practice one I statement template with a class. Try a short talk it out circle during your next classroom visit. Create or print an I statement poster to display in classrooms and common areas. 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/38512015

269. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Creating a Culture of Kindness 10/07/2025

269. ICYMI Proactive Bullying Prevention: Creating a Culture of Kindness Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Since October is Bullying Prevention Month, I will be highlighting some of our best podcast episodes all about bullying prevention strategies. Today, we are diving into practical ways to create a culture of kindness in schools. Promoting kindness is one of the most effective ways to reduce bullying. In this episode, I share strategies that teachers and counselors can use to set a positive tone, build empathy, and encourage collaboration. Morning meetings are a simple yet powerful practice that helps students begin their day with intention. Counselors can shadow teachers and suggest SEL activities, such as discussion cards, to promote empathy and connection. Restorative practices, including proactive circles that create safe spaces where every student feels heard and valued. These circles allow students to practice active listening, handle strong emotions, and respect differences. Resolution circles and talk-it-out circles provide opportunities for repair and forgiveness with counselor support. School-wide kindness cards can be passed out to students to recognize and encourage positive behaviors, building a stronger culture of kindness across the campus. By focusing on these strategies, we can create school environments where kindness thrives and bullying is less likely to take root. 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/38423800

268. Measuring the Effectiveness of Your Counseling Lessons 09/30/2025

268. Measuring the Effectiveness of Your Counseling Lessons Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Throughout September, we have been diving deep into classroom lessons. I love using them as tier 1 interventions, and so far we have talked about how to plan, schedule, teach, and manage behaviors during lessons. Today, we are shifting the focus to data and exploring how to measure the success of your classroom counseling lessons. Often, counselors rely on self-assessments or individual assessments during small group or one-on-one sessions, which is a fantastic approach. But did you know you can also track data in your classroom lessons without feeling overwhelmed? In this episode, I am sharing two simple and practical ways to measure effectiveness. Collecting new data This includes surveying parents and teachers throughout the year to gather feedback on the effectiveness of your lessons. By asking questions such as which topics have been most helpful or what improvements they have noticed, you can continue to modify and strengthen your lessons. Surveys can be kept short and simple with just a few questions to ensure people complete them. You can also share results in newsletters or with your administration to advocate for your role. Instant student feedback A brief half-sheet with three simple questions at the end of a lesson can provide valuable insights into what students are learning and how they are engaging with the material. How to use this data The purpose of gathering information is not just to collect it but to use it to improve future lessons and demonstrate the impact of your program. All data is good data because it allows you to revise, reflect, and show the power of school counseling. Your action step for this week is to create a parent feedback survey and send it out. This simple tool can make a big difference in helping you measure effectiveness and advocate for your work. 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/38366290

267. Managing Behaviors During Counseling Lessons with Gina Venancio 09/23/2025

267. Managing Behaviors During Counseling Lessons with Gina Venancio Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Throughout September, we are diving deep into classroom lessons. I love using them as my tier 1 interventions. While many times we are handed lessons to deliver, there are plenty of situations where you have to create everything on your own. That is why I am sharing how to schedule, plan, and teach classroom lessons. These insights come from my Stress-Free Class Lessons Course, a five-module program that equips you with tools and strategies to feel prepared and confident. In today’s episode, we are focusing on behavior management during counseling lessons. When I first started, this was one of my biggest struggles. I often had lessons I was excited to teach, but behavior challenges quickly left me feeling overwhelmed. Over time, I discovered that consistency is the key to creating a well-managed classroom. When you are consistent, you build trust with your students. They know what to expect and that you will follow through. Here are a few strategies we will cover in this episode: At the beginning of lessons: Review expectations or rules. You can display them on Google Slides or on an anchor chart. Model each expectation with your students, either as a group or with selected volunteers. When students don’t follow expectations: Take a pause rather than pushing through. Stop the lesson, revisit the expectation, and reset. Sometimes you need to go slow in order to go fast. Reinforcing positive behavior: Use behavior-specific praise. Instead of offering tangible rewards, tell students exactly what they are doing right and why it matters. The key is to create expectations that can be applied across every classroom you visit and to consistently reinforce them. Behavior management does not have to feel overwhelming when you have clear, practical strategies in place. 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/38230810

266. Teaching Counseling Lessons 09/16/2025

266. Teaching Counseling Lessons Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Throughout September, we are diving deep into classroom lessons. I love using them as my tier 1 interventions. While many times we are given lessons to teach, there are also plenty of situations where you are expected to create everything on your own. That is why I am sharing strategies on how to schedule, plan, and teach classroom lessons. These ideas come from my Stress-Free Class Lessons Course, a five-module program designed to help you feel confident and prepared. In today’s episode, we are focusing on the teaching piece and specifically on strategies to keep counseling lessons engaging and fun. The more engaged students are, the less likely they are to act out, which makes your time in the classroom much more effective. You will learn how to add movement and interactive activities into your lessons, including: Icebreakers: Sides of the room, Simon Says, Stand up/Sit down Activities: Role play, charades, escape rooms, scoot games Discussions: Beach ball toss, jumbo discussion die These simple strategies can transform the energy in your classroom and keep students focused while learning. Here are three action steps you can take right away: Find an engaging icebreaker for each topic you plan to teach. Decide which engagement activity strategy you want to try. Create a discussion beach ball to spark interactive conversations. 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/38230510

265. Planning Counseling Lessons 09/09/2025

265. Planning Counseling Lessons Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! All throughout September, we’re diving into classroom lessons, one of my favorite tier 1 interventions. While some schools provide ready-made lessons, there are many times you’ll need to design and plan them yourself. That’s why I’m excited to share tips on how to schedule, plan, and teach effective lessons. These strategies come straight from my Stress-Free Class Lessons Course, a five-module resource designed to help you feel confident and prepared. In today’s episode, we’re continuing the conversation by focusing on planning your counseling lessons—deciding what to teach and how to teach it. This is a sneak peek into Module 2 of my course. Here’s what you’ll learn: Planning lessons for the year: how to select topics, incorporate seasonal and school-wide themes, and repurpose content across grade levels. Using the calendar: align lessons with holidays, seasons, or events (for example, starting the year with a “Meet the Counselor” lesson, or teaching about kindness and friendship around Valentine’s Day). Referencing data and needs: review referrals, attendance data, and input from administrators to identify student challenges and plan preventative lessons. Combining curriculum resources: integrate any curriculum your school provides with your own lessons to fill in gaps. Book-based lessons: choose books with strong themes and build lessons around them, while ensuring teachers have access to reinforce concepts. We’ll also talk about offering “as-needed” lessons when extra support is required, such as teaching a cybersafety lesson to a class that needed immediate guidance beyond their regular schedule. And here’s a planning tip: Don’t reinvent the wheel. You can easily adapt lessons to make them developmentally appropriate across different grade levels. Your action steps: Write down monthly events you’d like to align lessons with Review discipline referrals and student data Prepare your needs assessment Find out if your school provides a curriculum Research books you might want to use in future lessons 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/38046640

264. Scheduling Counseling Lessons 09/02/2025

264. Scheduling Counseling Lessons Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Throughout September, we’re diving deep into classroom lessons, one of my favorite Tier 1 interventions. Sometimes we’re given lesson plans, but other times we’re left to create everything from scratch. That’s why this month I’m sharing practical strategies for scheduling, planning, and teaching lessons with confidence. These tips are pulled directly from my Stress-Free Classroom Lessons course, a five-module training designed to help you feel prepared and supported when delivering class lessons. In this episode, I’ll walk you through three game-changing scheduling tools that make the process seamless and manageable: 1. Google Sheets Create a simple form that lists your available times. Share it with teachers so they can sign up directly, avoiding endless back-and-forth emails. Teachers take ownership of choosing times, while you stay in control of your availability. Set it up at the beginning of the year so teachers can reserve their slots for months ahead. 2. Calendly Use this free, user-friendly website for scheduling. Teachers can easily reserve lesson times for the entire school year. Add important details like location, duration, and virtual links. Customize hours, set time limits, and color-code events to keep everything organized. 3. Google Calendar Pair with Google Sheets or Calendly for maximum efficiency. Create recurring calendar invites that include lesson details, virtual links, and reminders. Invite teachers directly so lessons appear on their calendars. Color-code lessons, groups, and individual sessions for quick organization at a glance. While it takes time to set up initially, the payoff is a smooth, structured year. Pro Scheduling Tip: Be practical and remember that you’re in control. For instance, if Mondays are difficult due to travel or frequent holidays, avoid scheduling lessons on that day. I personally recommend having teachers sign up for the entire year in advance. This approach allows you to balance your time across class lessons, small groups, and individual sessions. At the same time, remain flexible, because your schedule will naturally shift to accommodate your needs and the evolving needs of teachers throughout the 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/38045685

263. Unlock the Power of Data with Joyce Harduvel from Balanced Mind Therapy 08/26/2025

263. Unlock the Power of Data with Joyce Harduvel from Balanced Mind Therapy Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! I hope your school year is off to a wonderful start. Today I’m excited to bring you a very special guest, Joyce Harduvel. Joyce is a passionate advocate for youth and the school counselors and social workers that 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 that 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, Joyce shares her expertise on how to create positive change for students by using data. She breaks down practical steps you can take to make data meaningful and actionable in your counseling practice. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: 1. Assessing the Situation Avoid going in with predetermined views. Begin with a holistic assessment that provides a well-rounded perspective of where a student is at. Gather information from multiple sources: families, teachers, and the students themselves. Use observations, records, and assessments to inform your starting point. 2. Developing Goals and Tracking Data Identify a lagging social-emotional skill and create a targeted goal. Explore resources like CASEL, which breaks SEL skills into five domains and offers free research and tools. Start small—choose one specific area to focus on. Establish a baseline using student records (assignments, attendance, GPA, behavior data). Incorporate tracking methods such as antecedent-behavior forms, duration or interval data, mood tracking, or SEL pre/post tests. Refine your goal to ensure it is SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound). Break goals into smaller benchmarks for clarity and progress monitoring. 3. Using Data to Drive Interventions Collect ongoing data through screeners, classroom input, or case notes. Remember—the point of collecting data is to actually use it. If progress isn’t happening, adjust your goals and strategies. Use data to guide your interventions, advocate for student needs, and identify trends that may inform Tier 1 or Tier 2 supports. Most importantly, use data to celebrate student growth and successes along the way. This episode is packed with practical strategies to help you see data not as a burden, but as a powerful tool to create meaningful, positive change for your students. 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/37866880

262. 4 Ways To Spruce Up Your Meet The Counselor Lesson 08/19/2025

262. 4 Ways To Spruce Up Your Meet The Counselor Lesson Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! I hope your school year is off to a fantastic start. In this episode, I’m sharing four creative, hands-on ways to freshen up your Meet the Counselor lesson. I truly believe that every counselor should include a Meet the Counselor lesson at the beginning of the year. My personal favorite is a Meet the Counselor Game Show. It’s competitive, fun, and requires very little prep. Most importantly, it’s an excellent advocacy tool. It gives students clarity on who you are, what you do, and how they can access your services. But if you’re looking to add something new this year, I’ve got four simple ideas you can incorporate: Emotions Charades Turn learning into a game by having students act out emotions from a card while their classmates guess. This helps students practice reading facial expressions and body language, while also developing empathy and emotional recognition. Counseling Treasure Hunt Set up a scavenger hunt in your space with counseling-related items like a mandala coloring sheet, fidgets, or SEL books. As students find each object, engage them in discussion about how these items are used in counseling. Mindfulness Moments Introduce mindfulness by leading a guided meditation or creating a mindfulness jar. Both activities provide practical examples of self-regulation strategies that students can use throughout the year. Vision Collages Encourage self-expression by having students create collages that represent their goals, likes, dreams, and hopes. They can cut out images from magazines or design a digital version online. This is a creative way for students to reflect on their identities while you get to know them better. These activities are easy, engaging, and perfect for adding variety to your traditional Meet the Counselor lesson. Not only do they make your role more accessible to students, but they also set the tone for a supportive and engaging 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/37865685

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: monique@allowaytherapy.com 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: ps@pattisutherland.ca 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

School Counseling Simplified Podcast

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