School Counseling Program

About the School Counseling Program:

The School Counseling
program at Mays Chapel Elementary is available to help students, parents, and teachers develop positive learning experiences. The program consists of a variety of services and activities, including individual and group counseling, parent and teacher consultation, classroom guidance, coordination of school wide programs, information services, participation in education meetings, and referral assistance to other programs and services in the community. Working in conjunction with
administration, staff, parents, and teachers, the program is developed to meet the needs of ALL students at Mays Chapel Elementary School.

So What Exactly Do You Do?

My job is to help your children have a successful day while they are at school. Some parents hear their children say, "I talked to Mrs. Counsell today!" and they wonder what this means.  It is a normal part of the school day to meet with students regarding their concerns about everything from friendship problems and conflicts with classmates to the death of a pet. I listen, refer back to lessons taught in the classroom, and help students make decisions about what to do next.  I always encourage them to talk to their parents! 

If I find that I talk to your child more than a few times on the same topic in a short span of time, or if the discussion involves student safety, I will certainly give you a call.  Most of the time, my interactions are brief and focused on helping children find their own solutions to their concerns.  As always, if you have questions or concerns about your child talking to me, please do not hesitate to call or email me at school.

Confidentiality:

Though a broad definition of confidentiality is not  provided to counselors by law, it is expected that counselors will handle information regarding students in an ethical manner. Counselors will not share information with others except when an individual has a legitimate, recognized, educational need to have the information; when a student intends to harm himself/herself or another individual; if the counselor suspects child abuse or neglect, when a parent of a student or an emancipated student provides a written statement authorizing the release of information; or in other situations as provided by COMAR. Counselors will, by law, keep information confidential regarding a student who is pursuing help in overcoming a drug or alcohol problem.