The Elementary Middle School Counselor's Survival Guide by John J. Schmidt Ed.D

Author:John J. Schmidt, Ed.D.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Wiley
Published: 2010-07-14T16:00:00+00:00

CRISIS COUNSELING

At times, you might receive referrals of crises from students, parents, and teachers, and need to determine whether you should provide direct counseling services in these instances. No clear or easy formula exists to help you decide what crisis cases you should or should not handle. Sometimes you might answer this question simply by assessing the fact of whether or not there is a more qualified professional to serve the student. For example, in a large urban area with a wealth of mental health practitioners in the public and private sectors, a counselor may decide to refer all crisis cases. In many rural areas, however, with few services for students and families, school counselors may be the only professional helpers available. Whatever the decision, you always provide services within the scope of your professional competencies and abilities. At times, this may mean going back to school or attending seminars to learn new information and skills.

When you receive a referral for crisis counseling, the following questions may help you explore the situation and make an appropriate decision:1. Is the situation such that you need to inform the school crisis team? In all critical situations, you should inform the school principal. Together, you and the principal will be able to determine whether other team members need to be involved.

2. What steps do you take immediately? Depending on the nature of the situation, you and the principal will make decisions regarding the safety of the child; notification of parents or guardians; and referral to other community agencies, such as the health department or social services.

3. Do you have the training and knowledge needed to counsel effectively in this case? If you have the skill, will you have the time necessary to see this case through to a successful resolution? If you do not have the skill or time, are other agencies or professionals available to accept this case?

4. If another agency accepts the case, what support services should you and the teachers provide in the school setting? You will want to keep in contact with the outside agency as the case progresses to learn the best approaches for the school to take with the child and family.

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