Middle School Counselors are experienced in working with early adolescents as they deal with the important transition from their preteen to early teen years. Counselors assist these students to achieve a happy and successful school year. 

Common topics a School Counselor can assist with include:

• helping students make decisions about friends, relationships or other concerns;
• helping students develop positive self-esteem;
• helping students cope with the many challenges and personal problems they face on a day-to-day basis;
• helping students choose courses and levels to enhance their educational progress;
• motivating students by counseling and providing tips on study skills and organization;
• exploring career options.

Counseling is a process that can help all students because it provides them with ...

• a chance to explore feelings about their concerns;
• a trusting, confidential environment to discuss problems;
• a time to think out loud;
• the opportunity to explore new ideas which might help them cope.

Middle School students are invited to talk to their counselor about:

Academic Concerns:

• failing courses;
• underachieving;
• behavioral problems in classes;
• difficulties with teachers;
• test-taking problems;
• placement in ability grouping.

Family Issues:

• divorce/separation in the family;
• death/illness in the family;
• stress related to a family crisis;
• discipline in the home;
• family support for academic success.

Personal Problems:

• anything that creates stress;
• concerns about peers or peer groups;
• questions about alcohol, drugs, sex;
• feelings of depression/agitation