School Counseling

In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

School Counseling at ARS

The mission of the Department of School Counseling is to provide a comprehensive and developmental counseling program addressing the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. We do this in developmentally appropriate ways that enable personal growth and academic success. Our efforts in these areas for our students are a part of a collaborative model that includes all stakeholders.

Tai McMiller

Administrator/Director of School Counseling

Shelley Soltysiak

Behavior Specialist

How school counselors
address student needs:

Individual Counseling

The Department of School Counseling has staff and/ or partnered agencies that provide effective ways of managing a variety of personal, academic, and social issues. While each student faces his/her own unique challenges, some common issues involve, but are not limited to: transitions to school, confidence/self-esteem, academic pressures, coping with grief, dealing with families in transition, organization, stress/anxiety management, fitting in, communication skills, peer relationships, and crisis management, among others.

Group Counseling

The Department of School Counseling has staff and/ or partnered agencies that may facilitate small group counseling throughout the year. Groups are organized according to student-identified needs and are available to all interested students. Groups typically meet weekly or bi-weekly, and may be ongoing throughout the year or time-structured with a start/end date. Some group counseling is held after school.

SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)

American Renaissance School provides social-emotional learning within the classroom.
Also, the Department of School Counseling has staff and partnered agencies that also provide social emotional learning to students K-8. Lesson topics such as bullying prevention, social media responsibility/etiquette, character education & prosocial behavior, preparation for high school (8th grade), career exploration, and personal wellness are just a few examples of topics covered by staff during classroom guidance lessons that focus on Social Emotional Learning.

Reasons Why Students Should
See the School Counselor

  • Individual Counseling:
Students may come see the school counselor for a number of reasons:
  • making & keeping friends
  • setting goals
  • learning social skills
  • feeling good about yourself & boosting self-esteem
  • making good choices
  • being responsible & respectful
  • understanding & working with strong feelings
  • conflict resolution
  • bullying
  • changes at home or school
  • experiencing loss or grief

It is important to remember that school counselors do not provide long term therapy. It is recommended that they only see students for a few sessions before deciding to make a referral to a community resource.

  • Group Counseling:

Students may be asked to participate in group counseling sessions throughout the year that focus on the various needs of students that can include:

  • stress, worry, & anxiety
  • social skills
  • new to American Renaissance School
  • self-esteem
  • friendship

Permission forms will be sent home to guardians if a student is referred for a group. Community resources also come to our school and lead groups related to grief and worries.