Individual and Small Groups 

Elementary school counselors provide additional support to students through individual and small group counseling.

Individual Counseling

School counselors may meet individually with students to provide short-term, solution-focused support that helps students develop the skills needed to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Individual counseling sessions provide a safe, supportive space where students can talk about concerns, reflect on their experiences, and learn strategies to overcome challenges.

At the elementary level, individual counseling is developmentally appropriate and skill-focused, helping students strengthen behaviors that support learning and positive relationships.

During individual sessions, counselors may work with students on:

Goal Setting and Motivation
Students learn how to identify personal goals, break them into manageable steps, and monitor their progress. Counselors help students develop persistence, responsibility, and confidence as they work toward achieving their goals.

Executive Functioning Skills
Counselors support students in developing important executive functioning skills such as organization, attention, task completion, self-control, and flexible thinking. These skills help students manage classroom expectations and become more independent learners.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Students learn strategies to think through problems, consider choices, and make responsible decisions. Counselors help students practice identifying solutions and reflecting on outcomes.

Emotional Awareness and Self-Regulation
Students learn to recognize and manage their emotions in healthy ways. Counselors may teach strategies for calming down, expressing feelings appropriately, and coping with frustration or disappointment.

Social Skills and Peer Relationships
Counselors help students develop skills such as listening, sharing, cooperation, and resolving conflicts respectfully. These skills help students build positive friendships and feel connected to their school community.

Confidence and Self-Efficacy
Individual counseling can help students build confidence in their abilities, recognize their strengths, and develop a positive sense of self as learners and members of their school community.

Collaboration and Support

School counselors work closely with teachers, families, and school staff to support student growth. When appropriate, counselors may collaborate with families to share strategies that reinforce skills at home and help students continue making progress.

Individual counseling is designed to support student success in the school setting and is not intended to replace long-term therapy. When additional support is needed, school counselors may assist families in connecting with community resources.

Through individualized support, school counselors help students develop the mindsets and behaviors needed for academic success, positive relationships, and future readiness, consistent with the ASCA National Model and ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors for Student Success

Small Group Counseling

Small groups provide a supportive environment where students can practice important skills and learn from one another.

Group topics may include:

• social skills development

• managing emotions

• friendship skills

• self-confidence and self-esteem

• coping strategies

• dealing with family changes

• organization and self-management