Counselor’s Corner, February 2025

Happy February! This week is National School Counseling Week, a time to celebrate the role school counselors play in supporting students and families. The theme this year is “Helping Students Thrive,” and I’m excited to reflect on how school counselors help students develop the skills, resilience, and confidence they need to succeed. To learn more about what school counselors do and how we contribute to student well-being, check out this document from the American School Counselor Association.

As your child’s school counselor, I feel fortunate to be part of this special community. I’m here to support students in many ways, including:

  • Short-Term Individual Counseling: I offer brief counseling to help students navigate challenges and work toward goals.
  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Groups: Throughout the year, I facilitate SEL groups where students build skills in friendship, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.
  • Parent Support & Collaboration: I’m also available to connect with parents and caregivers for advice and resources, or to discuss ways we can work together to support your child’s well-being.
  • Referrals to Community Resources: If your child would benefit from longer-term counseling or other community services, I can help connect your family with trusted local resources.

If you ever have questions or would like to learn more about any of these services, please don’t hesitate to reach out at cshaw@st-johnschool.org. I’m here to support both your child and your family in any way I can. Wishing you all a peaceful February!

February Resources

  • Child & Adolescent Psychological Services of Seattle (CAPSS) offers fantastic parenting groups specifically designed for those raising a child with anxiety. They have openings for new groups beginning in February and March. You can learn more and sign up here.
  • Curious about executive functioning skills and how they affect school and everyday life? Check out this helpful two-page guide that provides practical tips on how to support your child in strengthening these essential skills.
  • If you’re looking for a podcast to enjoy with your children (ages 4-10), I highly recommend The Imagine Neighborhood. Each episode is 15-20 minutes long and uses storytelling to explore important topics like managing big feelings, building self-esteem, developing healthy relationships, and making good decisions. Check out their full episode archive here.