Counselor Chat Podcast

Welcome back to another episode of Counselor Chat! Today, I’m thrilled to share a conversation with the one and only Julia Cook. Julia is a former counselor and celebrated author whose books like My Mouth Is a Volcano and Tattle Tongue are staples on school counseling shelves across the nation. In this episode, Julia shares her journey from writing her first book to creating a collection that’s been translated into nine languages and used in schools worldwide.We explore:Julia’s creative process and her shift from SEL to teaching "Great People Skills (GPS)."How her books evolve with student needs, ensuring inclusivity and relevance.Practical, hands-on strategies for engaging students and teaching essential life skills.The launch of Julia’s new platform, Cookie Bites, offering videos, activities, and resources for counselors and educators.Julia’s new book, I Am Vape, addressing vaping prevention for younger students.This episode is packed with actionable tips, inspiration, and a giveaway you won’t want to miss!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Evolution of Julia’s Books: How feedback from counselors helps her refine her stories to fit the needs of today’s students.Concrete Teaching Strategies: Learn how visuals and metaphors, like root beer floats and racetracks, help kids grasp challenging concepts like test anxiety and self-regulation.The Power of Adaptation: Why it’s essential for educators and resources to grow alongside the ever-changing needs of students.Practical Tools with Cookie Bites: Discover a treasure trove of resources, from grab-and-go activities to videos, designed to make your counseling life easier.Giveaway Details:Want to win a signed copy of Julia’s new book I Am Vape? Here’s how:Forward this episode to five colleagues and CC Carol (carol@counselingessentials.org).The first five listeners to send their emails will win!Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Cookie Bites by Julia Cook: Cookie Bites WebsiteCounseling Essentials Resources: Counseling EssentialsJulia’s New Book, I Am Vape: Learn more about vaping prevention for young students.School Visits and Workshops with Julia Cook: Email Julia at julia@juliacookonline.com.Stay Connected:Follow Carol on Instagram and Facebook: @CounselingEssentialsVisit the Counselor Chat podcast page: Counseling Essentials PodcastFinal Thoughts:Julia reminds us of the importance of laughter, adaptability, and connection in school counseling. Whether it’s a poopy day or a cookie day, stay focused on the impact you make in students’ lives. You’re doing amazing work, counselor rock stars!Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Until next time, keep spreading joy and making a difference!Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks...

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm thrilled to be joined by two inspiring elementary school counselors, Allie and Elizabeth from North Carolina. These two bring such incredible passion to their work, and today they’re giving us an inside look into the joys, challenges, and creative solutions they use to support their students.We dive into what a “typical” day (if there even is one!) looks like for them, and they share everything from classroom lessons on empathy to creative attendance initiatives that keep students excited about coming to school. Their teamwork, problem-solving, and dedication to creating a welcoming environment are truly inspiring.Here’s what you’ll hear about in this episode:Life as a School Counselor: Allie and Elizabeth discuss the highs, the lows, and the endless surprises in their day-to-day.Favorite Lessons & Activities: Discover their go-to activities like the toothpaste empathy lesson and teamwork-building with balloon activities.Small Group Success: Hear about the impact of small groups in building friendship skills, social competencies, and academic support.Creative Attendance Initiatives: Allie and Elizabeth reveal their unique approach to tackling chronic absenteeism with glow parties and personalized attendance goals.The Importance of Teamwork: Learn how having a supportive team makes all the difference and how they balance workloads to avoid burnout.Advice for New Counselors: Allie and Elizabeth share valuable insights on asking questions, taking risks, and working closely with admin to create lasting change.If you’re looking for fresh ideas or just need a little inspiration to keep going, this episode is for you. Plus, it’s a reminder of why we all got into this field: to make a positive difference, one student at a time.After you listen, I’d love to hear your thoughts or stories of impact! Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this heartfelt episode of Counselor Chat, I'm diving deep into one of the core challenges many school counselors face: feeling like the effort you’re putting in doesn’t always lead to visible results. Inspired by a powerful anonymous post from a fellow counselor, Through real-life stories and insights, I share how just being present for a student, offering a kind word, or modeling integrity can have a lasting impact. This episode is all about recognizing and valuing the subtle yet profound influence you have every day in the lives of your students and colleagues.Episode Highlights:Feeling Overwhelmed or Unnoticed?How to address those moments when it feels like your work isn’t making a difference.Introducing "The Power of One"Why focusing on small, meaningful actions can be transformative in a school setting.Real-Life Stories of Lasting ImpactThe Ripple Effect of KindnessHow even a single positive interaction can spark a chain of compassion and connection within the school community.Mindset Shift for Long-Term ImpactSimple shifts to help you remember that you’re making a difference, even if you don’t see it right away.Mentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this special Halloween-themed episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into how we can use our leftover Halloween candy in our school counseling program!In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Candy Introductions – Use M&Ms or Skittles as a fun icebreaker. Each color represents a different question for students to answer, encouraging them to share something about themselves.Candy Tower Challenge – Build towers with mini marshmallows and toothpicks. Great for discussing teamwork, growth mindset, and creative problem-solving skills.Candy Bar Connection – Match students with candy bars like Snickers and Twix that represent different personality traits, helping them explore their strengths and similarities with others.Guess the Candy Flavor – Blindfolded students rely on their team to describe candy flavors without saying the names, building trust and honing communication skills.Candy Trivia Relay – Set up a trivia relay for some friendly competition! Students race to answer questions on topics you’re covering and win candy prizes for correct answers.Yes or No Candy Game – Encourage kids to converse and win candy by getting their partners to say “yes” in conversation, improving social skills and interaction.Candy Sort Challenge – A sorting game with candy corn and M&Ms using only straws. This activity promotes teamwork, planning, and focus.Why You’ll Love This Episode:Get ready for actionable, easy-to-implement ideas that make good use of Halloween leftovers and add a playful touch to your counseling sessions. Whether it’s using candy to spark introductions, teamwork, or just a bit of fun competition, these activities are sure to keep students engaged and learning.Have your own ideas of how to use your extra Halloween candies that you want to share? I’d love to hear them!Join our groups:High School Counselor ConnectionCaught In The Middle School CounselorsElementary School Counselor ExchangeMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into an economic concept that might not seem like it applies to school counseling—but trust me, it does! We’re talking about the Law of Diminishing Returns and how it affects your time, energy, and impact as a school counselor.Ever feel like the more you give, the less you’re able to accomplish? That’s because constantly responding to crises can lead to burnout and prevent you from making the systemic changes that truly benefit all students. In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to recognize when you’re stuck in the “crisis trap” and offer actionable steps to break free.Key Takeaways:The Law of Diminishing Returns: What it is and why it matters in school counseling.The Crisis Trap: How focusing solely on crises can prevent long-term growth in your counseling program.Prioritizing Prevention: Why classroom lessons, small groups, and empowering teachers can help reduce the number of crises you face.Using Data to Advocate for Change: How to track your time and outcomes to show administrators why shifting focus to prevention can benefit the entire school.Collaborating with Teachers: Tips on building stronger relationships with teachers so they can handle smaller crises before they escalate to your office.Let’s Keep the Conversation Going! Do you feel stuck in crisis mode? Have a strategy that’s worked for you? I’d love to hear about it! Send me a message, and let’s chat about how you can focus on what really matters—making a lasting impact on all your students.Resources Mentioned:Time TrackerGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this special Halloween-themed episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into the “school counselor scaries”—those fears and worries that often haunt us in our role as school counselors. From serious concerns like student safety and mental health to the lighter worries like navigating school politics or surviving Monday mornings, we’re covering it all!Key Takeaways:Active Shooter Drills: A fear mentioned by many counselors, but remember, preparation is key to managing the anxiety and ensuring student safety.Student Mental Health Concerns: Missing a red flag from a student can weigh heavily, but you’re trained, supported, and part of a team. Trust your instincts!Imposter Syndrome: That creeping feeling of self-doubt affects us all, but the truth is, if you care enough to worry, you’re doing better than you think.Graduation Anxiety: Whether it’s missed credits or the fear of a student not graduating, systems and accountability can help ease this fear. Remember, it’s a team effort.Toxic Work Environments & Unsupportive Admins: These are real-life workplace spooks, but setting boundaries and finding your “marigolds” (supportive colleagues) can help keep the fear at bay.School Politics & Monday Mornings: Navigating these feels like a haunted house, but with humor and a strong support system, you can survive the twists and turns.Have your own “school counselor scaries” you want to share? I’d love to hear them!Links Mentioned:High School Counselor ConnectionCaught In The Middle School CounselorsElementary School Counselor ExchangeGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the most challenging aspects of being a school counselor: navigating difficult conversations with parents. From discussing mental health concerns to addressing student safety, these conversations can be emotional, unpredictable, and downright tough. But with the right approach, you can turn even the most uncomfortable moments into opportunities for meaningful connection and positive change.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to create a safe and supportive environment for these sensitive discussions.The power of empathy and active listening when talking with parents and students.Why asking open-ended questions can encourage deeper, more honest communication.Age-appropriate language to use when addressing mental health topics with students.The “sandwich approach” to frame difficult conversations with positive feedback.What to do when parents react defensively or refuse to take action.How to protect your own well-being and manage emotional boundaries after tough days.Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

Welcome to another episode of Counselor Chat! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s crucial for every school: fostering an anti-bullying culture. While October is National Bullying Prevention Month, building a supportive, bully-free environment is something we should be doing year-round. In this episode, we explore practical strategies and activities to help you create a culture of kindness and respect at your school.Key Takeaways:Proactive and Holistic Approach: Learn why building an anti-bullying culture requires a school-wide commitment from administrators, teachers, parents, and students.Clear Policies and Procedures: We discuss how transparent and consistent policies help manage and resolve bullying incidents effectively.School-Wide Activities for Awareness: Discover impactful activities like kindness walks, Unity Day, and anti-bullying pledges that promote a supportive environment.Classroom Integration: Tips on integrating anti-bullying messages into your SEL curriculum through role-play scenarios, class meetings, and literature connections.Tier Two Interventions: Explore ideas for small group interventions, like “secret kindness agents” and friendship groups, to support students needing extra help with social skills.Community Partnerships: Learn how to engage parents and the local community in your anti-bullying efforts for additional support and awareness.Links Mentioned: Where Oliver Fits BookWhere Oliver Fits LessonThe Potato Chip Champ BookThe Potato Chip Champ LessonThe Juice Box Bully BookThe Juice Box Bully LessonMix it Up Day ActivityK-2 Recognizing Bullying Lesson3-6 Recognizing Bullying Lesson5-8 CyberBullying LessonTop Secret Kindness GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In today’s episode, I’m diving into something that I know so many of us struggle with—how to fit everything into our school counseling program. With all the different awareness months, SEL lessons, and building needs, it can feel like we’re being pulled in a million different directions. And let's be honest, sometimes it just feels like too much.Key Takeaways:It’s okay to not cover everything: You don’t need to feel pressured to address every awareness month. Focus on what’s most relevant to your school community.Prioritize what matters most: Identify your building’s needs and let that guide your focus—whether it’s SEL lessons, attendance goals, or conflict resolution.Get creative with incorporating awareness topics: Bulletin boards, morning announcements, and collaborating with other staff can help weave these themes into your program without overwhelming you.Collaborate with others: You don’t have to do it all alone! Engage your principal, teachers, and other staff to help carry out school-wide initiatives.Set realistic goals: Use your calendar to map out non-negotiables and figure out where you have space to introduce additional topics or activities.I’d love to hear how you’re prioritizing your program! If you have questions or want to share your strategies, feel free to reach out. Don’t forget—you’re making a difference, one student at a time.Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most important topics we face as school counselors—suicide prevention. As someone who has experienced the heartbreaking reality of losing students to suicide, this topic is very personal for me. But it’s also a call to action for all of us.Here’s what you can expect from today’s episode:I share my own experiences as a school counselor and how suicide has impacted the schools I’ve worked in.We’ll talk about how September is Suicide Prevention Month and why it’s the perfect time to raise awareness with your students.I walk you through simple, effective strategies like classroom presentations, partnering with teachers, and creating safe spaces for students to talk about mental health.You’ll hear about real ways to make a difference with events like mental health fairs, anonymous drop boxes, and even role-playing scenarios to teach kids how to support their peers.Plus, I’m sharing a freebie! Download your 988 posters to hang up in your schools to help promote the suicide prevention hotline in a student-friendly way.Grades 6-7 Suicide Prevention LessonGrades 8+ Suicide Prevention LessonFree 988 School PostersGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re diving into a fun and insightful activity that can be a game-changer for your next faculty meeting or even for use with students—The Leadership Compass. This activity helps individuals identify their leadership style based on four compass directions: North, South, East, and West. Whether you’re a “take charge” North, a “big picture” East, a “detail-oriented” West, or a “relationship-building” South, this exercise fosters a deeper understanding of how each style contributes to effective teamwork.You’ll learn how to use this tool to boost collaboration, appreciate the diversity of leadership approaches, and build stronger connections with your colleagues. Key Takeaways:The Fable of the Blind Men and the Elephant: A powerful story to illustrate the importance of understanding different perspectives.Leadership Compass Breakdown:North: Action-oriented, loves to get things done.East: Big picture thinkers who work with the end in mind.West: Detail-focused and question everything to ensure clarity.South: Relationship-focused and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.How to Use the Leadership Compass: Tips for facilitating the activity with faculty and students, including creating a visual compass in your room.The Power of Diverse Leadership Styles: Why you need all four directions on your team for true collaboration and success.Links Mentioned:The Leadership Compass ActivityGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this episode, I’m sharing my top ten strategies for school counselors to start the school year successfully. Whether you’re returning to a familiar school or stepping into a new one, these tips will help you build strong relationships, organize your counseling program, and set up a solid foundation for the year.Episode Highlights:Build Relationships: Start the year by connecting with both returning and new staff and students. Building strong relationships is the key to effective counseling and creating a supportive school environment.Review and Update Your Counseling Program: Take time to review your counseling program to ensure it meets current student needs and aligns with school goals. This includes setting measurable goals, such as improving attendance.Set Up Your Office: Make your office a welcoming and organized space where students feel comfortable. Clear out old materials, refresh your resources, and create an environment that’s inviting but not overwhelming.Create an Organized Counseling Schedule: Develop a flexible yet structured schedule for your counseling sessions, including classroom lessons, small groups, and individual sessions. Remember to leave some white space for unexpected issues that may arise.Communicate Your Role: It’s crucial to educate staff, students, and parents about your role as a school counselor. Use brochures and open house events to explain what services you offer and how to access them.Plan Your SEL Curriculum: Outline your SEL topics for each month, aligning them with school-wide events and goals, like bullying prevention week, to provide consistent and relevant support to students.Participate in Professional Development: Stay on top of the latest counseling techniques and practices by engaging in ongoing professional development. This helps you keep up with the evolving needs of your students.Links Mentioned:Counseling Brochures BundleGet a Year of Perks for 25% off! Mentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

As school counselors, we often rely on data to prove our effectiveness.But here's the reality: not everything we do can be measured. Some of the most impactful moments we create with students are those that can't be quantified, yet they leave a lasting impression.In this episode, we dive into:The Importance of Counselor Habits: Discover why the small, daily actions we take can have a big impact on our students and our school community.Creating Lollipop Moments: Learn about the profound, unmeasurable effects we have through simple acts of kindness and being present for our students.And more...If you haven’t tuned in to the earlier episodes in our back-to-school series, I highly encourage you to start from the beginning. Each episode builds on the last, offering insights and tips that are especially valuable as we prepare for a new school year.Let’s band together to make this school year one filled with meaningful connections and unforgettable moments.Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this episode!Links Mentioned:Lolipop Moments YouTube VideoGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this episode of Counselor Chat, we explore leadership through the lens of the "Leadership from a Dancing Guy" video. This simple yet powerful video can be a tool for school counselors to ignite movements within their school communities. By embracing the role of a leader, even when it feels like dancing alone, school counselors can inspire students, teachers, and parents to create a positive, inclusive environment.Key Takeaways:Leadership from a Lone Nut: The "Leadership from a Dancing Guy" video illustrates how one person's actions can inspire a movement.Creating Momentum: As school counselors, it's essential to be that first dancer, leading by example and encouraging others to join in.Inspiring Positive Change: Your consistent and courageous actions as a counselor can have a lasting impact on your school community.Call to Action:Reflect on new ideas or initiatives you want to introduce this school year.Think about how you can be the first dancer in your school community, inspiring others to take part in creating positive change.Links Mentioned:Leadership From A Dancing Guy YouTube VideoBlog Post: Are You A Lone Nut? A Lesson To Develop LeadershipMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

In this second episode of our Back to School series, I’m diving into a topic that’s incredibly important for us as school counselors—how to make sure the vital work we do doesn’t go unnoticed. Too often, despite the significant impact we have, our efforts can go unseen by those around us. In this episode, I emphasize the importance of:Advocating for Our Role: Ensuring that the value of our work is communicated so it doesn’t get overlooked.Sharing Successes: Highlighting the progress of our students with colleagues and administrators to build awareness and appreciation for the counseling role.Collaboration is Key: Being seen as integral members of the school team by actively participating in and contributing to the broader educational environment.Impactful Interventions: Recognizing the power of empathy and understanding in counseling.Building a Supportive Environment: Advocating for ourselves to help create a school culture where our contributions are respected and supported.Join me as we explore how to ensure our work is visible, valued, and celebrated as we head into what I hope will be our best school year yet!Mentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

Episode Summary:This episode kicks off a special series dedicated to sharing valuable lessons and advice to help school counselors have their best year ever. Drawing inspiration from James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, Carol discusses the profound impact of habits on personal identity and professional effectiveness. She shares practical strategies for habit formation, such as habit stacking and the two-minute rule, and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in developing habits that support wellness and work-life balance.Key Points:Introduction to the Atomic Habits book by James Clear.The concept of habits reflecting identity.Practical examples of habit formation in personal and professional life.Strategies like habit stacking and the two-minute rule.Importance of self-awareness in habit development.Actionable Tips:Identify and reflect on your current habits.Use habit stacking to create new routines.Implement the two-minute rule to gradually build new habits.Foster habits that support your wellness and work-life balance.Resources Mentioned:Atomic Habits by James ClearGrab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

Key Points Covered:The Role of Data in School Counseling:Data as a tool for informed decision-making.The significance of proactive interventions in student support.Types of Data School Counselors Can Collect:Academic performance data (grades, test scores, attendance).Behavioral data (disciplinary incidents, attendance patterns, social-emotional skills).Surveys and assessments (career interests, mental health, school climate).Using Data to Create Responsive Programs: Importance of analyzing data to identify trends and underlying issues.Communicating Data Findings to StakeholdersStrategies for sharing data effectively: Data dashboards.Presentations.Written reports.Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks MembershipPerks Membership

Today's episode we talk about 10 creative ways to use a plain piece of paper as a powerful school counseling toolCreative Paper Activities:1. Mind Mapping: - Visual representation of thoughts and feelings - Great for brainstorming and organizing ideas2. Goal Setting: - Fold paper into sections for short-term and long-term goals - Create a roadmap to visualize progress3. Art Therapy: - Encourage self-expression and emotional articulation - Activities like "I am" statements with watercolors4. Scribble Drawing: - Eyes-closed scribbling turned into a masterpiece - Promotes creativity and finding beauty in the unexpected5. What If Scenarios: - List and analyze "what if" thoughts - Differentiate realistic concerns from exaggerated fears6. Journaling Prompts: - Use prompts or quotes for reflection and emotional processing - Option to draw responses7. Collage Creation: - Reflect interests, values, and aspirations with cut-out images - Enhances self-awareness and pride8. Origami: - Therapeutic activity promoting mindfulness and relaxation - Simple projects like paper boats and cootie catchers9. Letter Writing: - Write letters to themselves to express thoughts and hopes - Revisit letters to track personal growth10. Timelines: - Chart significant life events or future goals - Explore identity and experiencesSubscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor ChatFeel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy counseling!Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

Join me today as we talk all about how to use mind mapping as a school counselor to enhance your school counseling program.Mind Mapping is a visual technique to organize thoughts, information, and ideas. The benefits of using mind mapping is that it enhances creativity, helps with critical thinking, and eases problem-solving skills.Steps to Create a Mind Map:1. Start with a blank paper or whiteboard2. Place the central thought in the middle3. Branch out with related ideas and subtopics4. Avoid judging ideas initially, just brainstorm freely5. Link and structure thoughts to create a cohesive mapBenefits for School Counseling:Program Development: Outline goals, strategies, and evaluation methodsExample: Planning a career fair using mind mapping to brainstorm contacts, logistics, and activitiesStudent Support: Identify needs and design targeted interventionsCategorize support services: academic assistance, mental health resources, career guidanceEffective Mind Mapping Tips:Begin with a clear central theme or objectiveUse keywords or images for ideasKeep it simple and conciseEmbrace creativity and unconventional connectionsKeep and revisit the mind map for ongoing revisionsContact Information:Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor ChatEmail me at Carol@CounselingEssentials.orgFeel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy mind mapping!Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership

Tips for Attending the ASCA Conference & Exciting Updates!Join Brandy Thompson as she takes over the Counselor Chat podcast for this episode! Brandy shares valuable tips for making the most of your ASCA conference experience. Get ready for essential packing advice, networking strategies, and must-see sessions. **Key Points:**ASCA Conference Tips: - Wear comfortable shoes and pack light. - Bring a sweater for cold conference rooms. - Download the conference app for updates and schedules. - Don’t miss the exhibit hall for networking and discovering new resources. - Participate in social events and mixers to meet fellow counselors. - Utilize social media and follow the hashtag #ASCA24 for real-time updates.Exploring Kansas City: - Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National WWI Museum, Kansas City Zoo, and more. - Enjoy local BBQ at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Arthur Bryant’s.Booth 506: Visit Carol and Brandi at the exhibit hall for the Perks Counseling Content Club. Get exclusive swag and learn about their comprehensive counseling resources.Links and Resources:- 2024 Summer Counselor Conference Registration Follow Brandy at:The Counseling Teacher The Counseling Teacher Brandy on TpTPerks Content ClubSubscribe & Review:- Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others find the show!Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, enjoy your ASCA conference and happy conferencing!---Feel free to make adjustments to fit your style and specific needs!Resources Mentioned:Summer Counselor ConferenceMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership