The Counselor’s Corner

          By Melissa Mariani

What is a School Counselor???

-Have you ever been bullied and don’t know who to tell about it?

-Are you having trouble getting along with a friend or a teacher?

-Did you just find out that your parents are getting divorced, or that someone close to you just died, and you’re so upset that you just need someone to talk to?

These are some of the issues that School Counselors deal with every day!  Counselors know how to help kids (and parents) deal with life’s challenges.  They have special training in how to help families solve problems, set goals, and resolve conflicts.  That doesn’t mean that your school counselor can wave a magic wand and the problem will go away.  It does mean, though, that she will help you COPE with it.  The counselor’s job is to take your problem seriously and help you find a solution. 

Generally, counselors meet with students in:

·         a private meeting

·         a group setting with other kids who are dealing with similar issues

·         in the classroom, where the counselor may teach a class or two on a subject that affects everyone, such as Bullying

If you are unsure how to contact your school counselor, ask a teacher or one of the people who work in the school office.  St. Juliana’s School Counselor, Mrs. Melissa Mariani, can be contacted by calling the school directly, or by email at mmariani@saintjuliana.org