Counselor Chat Podcast

175. The Counselor Introduction Lesson Students Actually Need

Your counselor introduction lesson is more than a back-to-school formality. It is one of the first ways you build trust, increase access, and help students understand when and how to ask for support. In this episode of Counselor Chat, Carol shares what students actually need to hear during a counselor introduction lesson—and what you can skip. You’ll learn how to: Explain your role in student-friendly language Help students understand when they might come see you Clearly explain confidentiality Teach students exactly how to request support Reduce the stigma that counseling means “being in trouble” Make your lesson interactive and memorable Give students a few key messages they can carry with them all year The goal is not for students to memorize what a school counselor does. It is for them to know, “I know who my counselor is, I know how to reach them, and I know they can help.” Intro Lessons: Meet the School Counselor Tic-Tac-Toe School Counselor BINGO Meet the School Counselor Lesson Plan Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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174. The First 30 Days: What School Counselors Should Focus On

The first month of school can make counselors feel like they need to do everything at once—but you don’t. Here's a simple roadmap for the first 30 days of school, including what to prioritize, what can wait, and how to build a strong foundation for the rest of the year. You’ll hear practical ideas for: Building relationships with students and staff Creating simple referral and counseling systems Using data and needs assessments to guide your program Strengthening Tier 1 supports Protecting your time before your calendar fills up Organizing your counseling program without starting from scratch Resources Mentioned: From TpT: Meet the Counselor Tic-Tac-Toe Meet The Counselor Lesson Plan Behavior Intervention Toolkit All these resources and more are included in Perks Counseling Content Club You do not have to have the entire year figured out in September. Focus on the foundation first. Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

173. Nice Bike: Three Small Actions That Can Change School Culture

Nice Bike: Three Small Actions That Can Change School Culture What if changing school culture did not require a big program, a new initiative, or another committee? In this episode of Counselor Chat, Carol shares the powerful message behind Mark Scharenbroich’s “Nice Bike” story and explores three simple ways school counselors can strengthen relationships throughout their buildings: acknowledge, honor, and connect. You will hear practical examples of how small moments of recognition can help students and staff feel seen, valued, and connected—and how those moments can create ripple effects throughout an entire school community. In This Episode: Why two simple words can open the door to connection The difference between acknowledging and honoring someone How specific recognition builds trust and belonging Why connection needs to happen before a crisis Simple ways to positively influence school culture every day School culture is not built through one special event. It is built through the way people are treated, one interaction at a time. Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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172. Tales From A Train Station (ICYMI)

In this second episode of our Back to School series, I’m diving into a topic that’s incredibly important for us as school counselors—how to make sure the vital work we do doesn’t go unnoticed. Too often, despite the significant impact we have, our efforts can go unseen by those around us. In this episode, I emphasize the importance of: Advocating for Our Role: Ensuring that the value of our work is communicated so it doesn’t get overlooked. Sharing Successes: Highlighting the progress of our students with colleagues and administrators to build awareness and appreciation for the counseling role. Collaboration is Key: Being seen as integral members of the school team by actively participating in and contributing to the broader educational environment. Impactful Interventions: Recognizing the power of empathy and understanding in counseling. Building a Supportive Environment: Advocating for ourselves to help create a school culture where our contributions are respected and supported. Join me as we explore how to ensure our work is visible, valued, and celebrated as we head into what I hope will be our best school year yet! Join the Summer Counselor Conference Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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171. Making Waves That Matter: Small Actions, Big Impact

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing a reminder that school counselors create impact in ways that are not always immediate, visible, or easy to measure. From a quick student check-in to a meaningful conversation with a teacher, small actions can create ripple effects that travel farther than we may ever realize. You do not have to make a huge splash to make a difference. In this episode, we talk about: Why small, consistent actions matter The ripple effects counselors create every day Why impact is not always measured by data alone How students may carry our encouragement longer than we know Why continued learning helps us make stronger waves Takeaway: You are already making waves. Every conversation, check-in, lesson, and moment of encouragement can matter more than you realize. Come Join us at the Summer Counselor Conference. Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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170. Dear Tired Counselor: You’re Allowed to Rest From Being Tired

Dear Tired Counselor: You’re Allowed to Rest From Being Tired In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing a summer permission slip for counselors who may be on break but still feel completely worn out. Being away from school does not automatically mean your mind and body have caught up after a demanding year. This episode is a reminder that you do not need to turn July into another to-do list, school improvement plan, or race to get ahead for August. In this episode, we talk about: Why being on break does not always mean feeling rested Letting go of the pressure to be productive all summer Trusting that your work mattered, even when you cannot see every outcome Releasing unfinished things from the school year Three gentle reflection questions for a summer reset Takeaway: You do not have to earn rest by being exhausted enough. You are allowed to let summer be summer. Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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169. The Game-Changer I Wish I Had Found Sooner: Restorative Practices

The Game-Changer I Wish I Had Found Sooner: Restorative Practices In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing why restorative practices became one of the most meaningful shifts in my school counseling work. Restorative practices are not about avoiding accountability or forcing students to say sorry. They are about helping students understand impact, repair harm, build skills, and remain connected to their school community. In this episode, we talk about: Why consequences alone do not always teach the skills students need Moving from “What rule was broken?” to “Who was affected?” Why repair is bigger than a forced apology How circles can build connection before conflict happens Simple restorative questions counselors can begin using right away Takeaway: Students can take responsibility for their actions and still know they belong. Restorative practices help us hold accountability and humanity at the same time. Resources Mentioned: Think Sheets Community Circles Starter Bundle Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

168. Being the Last to Leave Didn’t Make Me Amazing: Boundaries I Wish I Set Earlier

Being the Last to Leave Didn’t Make Me Amazing: Boundaries I Wish I Set Earlier In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m continuing the series on things I wish I had done earlier in my school counseling career — and this one is all about boundaries. For a long time, I thought staying late, saying yes, and being endlessly available meant I was dedicated. But looking back, I can see that being the last car in the parking lot didn’t make me a better counselor. It just made me tired. In this episode, I’m sharing the boundaries I wish I had set earlier, including time boundaries, emotional boundaries, role boundaries, communication boundaries, and personal life boundaries. I also reflect on why school counselors often feel guilty setting limits — and why boundaries are actually what help us stay effective, compassionate, and sustainable in this work. In this episode, we talk about: Why overworking is not the same as being effective The difference between being dependable and being endlessly available Why school counselors need role clarity How guilt shows up when we start setting boundaries Simple scripts for saying no or pausing before saying yes Why leaving on time does not mean you care less How boundaries protect your energy, family, and long-term career Takeaway: You can care deeply about students and still have limits. Being a good counselor does not require burning yourself out. Reflection question: What would change if you believed you could be a good counselor without being endlessly available? Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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167. I Didn’t Know What I Didn’t Know: Why Conferences Changed My Counseling Practice

I Didn’t Know What I Didn’t Know: Why Conferences Changed My Counseling Practice In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m sharing why professional development and conferences became such a turning point in my school counseling career. Early on, I didn’t fully realize how much I could learn outside of my own building — or how much my perspective was limited by only knowing my own experiences. I’ll talk about finally attending my first conference, creating a small local conference for counselors, and how trainings in restorative practices and trauma, illness, and grief have deeply changed the way I support students, staff, and school communities. In this episode, we talk about: Why professional development is not “extra” How conferences expand your perspective The power of learning from other counselors Why asking to attend training matters How restorative practices and crisis-response training changed my work Takeaway: You don’t know what you don’t know — and sometimes one conference, one training, or one new idea can change your entire practice. Check out the: Summer Counselor Conference Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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166. Summer Series-What I Wish I Had Done Earlier: Invest in My Future

What I Wish I Had Done Earlier: Invest in My Future In this episode of Counselor Chat, we’re kicking off a new reflective series about the things I wish I had done earlier in my school counseling career. First up: investing in my future. This episode is not financial advice, but it is a gentle reminder that school counselors spend so much time helping students plan their futures that we sometimes forget to plan for our own. I’m sharing why I wish I had started asking questions about retirement, savings, and long-term planning earlier — and why taking even one small step now can make a difference for future you. In this episode, we talk about: Why future planning matters for school counselors The importance of asking questions about retirement and benefits How small steps can add up over time Why confusion should not keep you from starting Caring for your future self without guilt or shame Takeaway: You are allowed to care deeply about your students and still care about your own future. Future you is worth planning for. Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Don't forget to sign up for the Summer Counselor Conference! Early Bird registration ends June 15th!

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165. Celebrating Growth (Even When It Doesn’t Feel Like Enough)

Celebrating Growth (Even When It Doesn’t Feel Like Enough) As the school year comes to a close, it's easy to focus on the students we didn't quite reach, the goals that aren't fully accomplished, and the work that still feels unfinished. But what if success isn't always found in the big moments? In this episode of Counselor Chat, we'll explore how school counselors can reframe success by recognizing the quiet growth that often goes unnoticed. From students who finally ask for help to those who simply know they have a safe adult at school, these small wins matter more than we sometimes realize. In This Episode: Why growth is often messy, slow, and easy to overlook The small victories counselors should be celebrating A touching story about a former student whose life was changed by a simple belief in his potential Why students often remember the little things we do How counselors amplify student success every day The importance of recognizing your own growth as a counselor Key Takeaway Success doesn't always arrive as a dramatic transformation. Sometimes it sounds like: "Can I see my emotional support person?" "Thanks for always listening." "You made me think I could actually do this." The relationships, encouragement, and consistency you provide matter more than you may ever know. As you wrap up the school year, take a moment to celebrate the quiet victories—both your students' growth and your own. 💛 Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Get Your Ticket to the Summer Counselor Conference!

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164. The Students You’re Still Worried About

The Students You’re Still Worried About As the school year winds down, most people are focused on celebrations, graduations, and summer plans. But school counselors know there’s another side to this season—the students we're still thinking about. In this heartfelt episode of Counselor Chat, we'll talk about the students who stay on our minds long after the final bell rings. The students who still struggle with friendships, attendance, anxiety, family challenges, or simply finding their place in the world. You'll learn: Why it's normal to worry about certain students as summer approaches What you can realistically do before the school year ends Simple ways to help students identify supports and prepare for summer How to effectively hand off information to next year's team Why counselors need to remember they are only one chapter—not the entire story In This Episode: ✔️ Supporting vulnerable students before summer break ✔️ Creating meaningful final check-ins ✔️ Helping students identify trusted adults and support systems ✔️ Transition planning and counselor-to-counselor handoffs ✔️ Letting go of the pressure to "fix everything" before June ✔️ Trusting that the seeds you've planted will continue to grow Key Takeaway You don't have to solve every problem before summer. Sometimes the greatest gift we give students is consistency, connection, and the reminder that they matter. The fact that you're still worried about certain students doesn't mean you haven't done enough—it means you cared deeply. Connect with Carol 🌐 CounselingEssentials.org 📸 Instagram: @counselingessentials If this episode resonated with you, share it with another school counselor who may be carrying the weight of unfinished stories as the school year comes to a close. Until next time, remember: the relationships matter, the small moments matter, and you matter too. 💛 Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group www.summercounselorconference.com

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163. Helping Students Transition Well (Without Adding One More Thing to Your Plate)

163. Helping Students Transition Well As school counselors, we spend so much time managing schedules, testing, field trips, celebrations, and end-of-year chaos that it’s easy to forget what many students are experiencing underneath it all: transition. In this episode of Counselor Chat, I’m talking about how transitions affect students emotionally and how we can support them in simple, meaningful ways without adding one more giant project to our already busy season. From elementary students moving to middle school, to seniors preparing to graduate, students often carry fears, uncertainty, excitement, grief, and anxiety all at the same time. The good news? Supporting them doesn’t have to involve complicated lessons, elaborate crafts, or Pinterest-perfect projects. In this episode, I share realistic and manageable ideas that help students process change, reflect on growth, and move forward with confidence. In this episode, we discuss: Why transitions can feel emotionally overwhelming for students Common fears students have when moving to middle school and high school The importance of normalizing emotions during times of change Easy reflection and closure activities for different grade levels How simple conversations can create lasting impact Ways to support graduating seniors emotionally Why counselors don’t need giant productions to create meaningful moments Favorite Quote from the Episode: “Simple is often better because it’s realistic and repeatable, and students remember how they felt, who listened, and who helped them feel seen.” Resources Mentioned: Year End Review Discussion Questions Summer Counselor Conference Remember, meaningful does not have to mean complicated. You are making a bigger difference than you realize. Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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162. The 3 Pieces of Data School Counselors Should Grab Right Now

Don’t Wait Until June: The 3 Pieces of Data You Should Grab Right Now In this episode of Counselor Chat, we're talking about one of the biggest end-of-year stressors for school counselors: DATA. But instead of overcomplicating things with giant spreadsheets and impossible tracking systems, this episode focuses on the simple, meaningful information that actually matters. If you’ve ever found yourself in May wondering: “Where did this year go?” “Did I track enough?” “How am I supposed to summarize my counseling program?” …this episode is for you. Carol shares: The 3 pieces of data every school counselor should gather before the year ends Why simple data is still powerful Easy ways to use the information you already have How stories and student growth make your impact visible Why presentation matters when sharing your counseling program with administrators and stakeholders She also shares practical examples from her own district counseling program and explains how data can help guide next year’s counseling priorities—not just “prove” what you did this year. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✔️ Why more data does NOT always mean better data ✔️ The importance of tracking the scope of your counseling work ✔️ Simple ways to show student growth and outcomes ✔️ Why stories and student quotes matter ✔️ What NOT to do during May survival season 😅 ✔️ How to create visuals that make your counseling program shine ✔️ How data can help shape next year’s counseling goals and supports The 3 Types of Data to Collect Right Now 1. What You Did Classroom lessons Small groups Individual sessions Crisis response Parent meetings Attendance and behavior interventions Community circles Career activities 2. What Changed Pre/post surveys Attendance improvements Coping skills growth Teacher observations Student reflections Behavior changes 3. Stories Student quotes Teacher feedback Parent comments Success moments Impact stories that bring your work to life Free Resource Mentioned in This Episode 🎁 Free End of Year Counseling Report This free counseling report template helps school counselors summarize the highlights of their school counseling program into an eye-catching, professional format that is perfect for: Administrators Advisory councils Staff meetings Program advocacy End-of-year reflection It’s designed to help you showcase: Lessons taught Groups facilitated Student impact Program highlights Counseling outcomes …without spending hours creating reports from scratch. Connect with Carol 🌐 Counseling Essentials 📸 Instagram @counselingessentials If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another school counselor who’s trying to survive the end of the school year one spreadsheet at a time. 💛 Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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161. How to Choose an SEL Curriculum

Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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160. Simple Mental Health Supports Every School Can Use Right Now

Episode 160: Simple Mental Health Supports Every School Can Use Right Now Mental Health Awareness Month is coming up, and I know how easy it is to feel like you need to do more. Add another lesson. Try something new. Fit one more thing into an already full schedule. In this episode, I share a different perspective. Supporting student mental health is not about adding something big. It is about what is already happening in your day and how you show up in those moments. I walk through simple, realistic ways I support student mental health that do not require extra time or complicated planning. These are things you can start using right away. In this episode: Why mental health support is not limited to a lesson, a week, or a specific month How everyday interactions shape how students feel and respond Simple ways to support students without overwhelming your schedule The role consistency plays in helping students feel safe How to support your own mental health while supporting others Practical Ways to Support Mental Health: Checking in with students in small, informal moments throughout the day Helping students understand that all feelings are valid and worth sharing Teaching a few coping strategies and practicing them regularly Creating predictable routines so students know what to expect Making space for connection through simple conversations Using tools like calm down kits to support regulation when needed "You are not responsible for doing everything. You are responsible for doing what you can with intention." Resources Mentioned: Calm Down Kit Freebie! High School Mental Health Lesson Feelings Check Ins Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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159. You Don’t Have to Do It All: Letting Go This Time of Year

Episode Title: Rocks, Sand, and the Pressure to Do It All (Especially in April) Episode Summary: April can feel like a breaking point for school counselors. Between testing, behavior challenges, end-of-year responsibilities, and ongoing student needs, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. In this episode, I'm sharing a powerful perspective shift using the classic “jar of rocks” story to help you refocus your time, energy, and expectations. This is your reminder that you were never meant to do it all—and that doing less of what doesn’t matter can actually help you do more of what does. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why April feels especially overwhelming for school counselors The hidden “invisible checklist” many counselors carry How to identify your “rocks” (what matters most right now) The difference between rocks, pebbles, and sand in your daily work Why letting go is a strategic decision, not a failure A simple mindset shift to reduce overwhelm immediately Key Takeaway: “You were never meant to do it all.” Reflection Questions: What are your rocks right now? Where are you spending time on sand instead of what matters most? What is one thing you can let go of this week? Where are you already making a difference (even if it doesn’t feel like it)? You don’t have to do everything to make a difference. You just have to focus on what matters most. And right now… that’s enough. 💛 Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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158. Test Anxiety Isn’t Just Nerves—Here’s What Students Really Need

Test Anxiety Isn’t Just Nerves—Here’s What Students Really Need Test anxiety is everywhere this time of year, but it doesn’t always look the way we expect. It’s not just nervous students biting their nails. It’s avoidance. Shutdown. Frustration. “I don’t care.” In this episode, I’m breaking down what test anxiety really looks like, what’s happening in the brain, and how we can support students with simple, effective strategies that build confidence and calm. 💡 What You’ll Learn Why test anxiety is often misunderstood How overwhelm—not defiance—is driving behavior A simple way to explain anxiety to students How confidence and identity impact test performance 🧠 What’s Really Happening When students feel stressed, their brains flip into alarm mode. Heart rate increases Thinking becomes foggy Focus drops It’s not that they don’t know the material… 👉 Their brain is trying to protect them. 🎨 Easy Activities to Support Students Color-by-code coping activities Confidence statement practice Collaborative classroom posters with calming messages Simple. Low prep. High impact. ✨ Key Takeaway “They care a lot… they just don’t feel capable.” 🎁 Resources Mentioned Color by Code Test Taking SKills Test Strategies Game Test Prep Motivators Test Prep Collaborative Poster Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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157. Why I Don’t Make Kids Apologize (And What I Do Instead)

Why I Don’t Make Kids Apologize (And What I Do Instead) 💭 Episode Overview We’ve all said it: “Go apologize.” But what if that moment isn’t actually teaching accountability? In this episode, I’m sharing why I don’t force apologies—and what I do instead to help students take real ownership, build empathy, and repair relationships in a meaningful way. 🔑 Key Takeaways An apology is not the same as accountability Forced apologies often teach compliance—not empathy Students need understanding before they can offer a genuine repair Slowing down the process leads to better long-term behavior and relationships ✨ Key Insight “When we force an apology before a student is ready, we’re not teaching empathy… we’re teaching compliance.” 🛠️ Resources Mentioned Think Sheets Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group Mentioned in this episode: Perks Membership

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156. Spring Fever Is Real: Managing Big Energy & Bigger Behaviors

Episode Title: 156. Spring Fever Is Real: Managing Big Energy & Bigger Behaviors 🌱 Episode Overview April is here—and with it comes big energy, distracted students, and behaviors that can leave teachers feeling overwhelmed. But what if those behaviors aren’t defiance… What if they’re communication? In this episode, I’m sharing a powerful reframe that will shift how you see student behavior this time of year—plus simple, practical strategies you can use immediately to support regulation, connection, and readiness to learn. 💡 What You’ll Learn Why “spring fever” is really a perfect storm of unmet needs How to reframe behavior from frustration to understanding The connection between regulation, belonging, and behavior Why community and purpose matter for both staff and students 🛠️ Quick Tier 1 Strategies You Can Use Right Away 1. Brain Breaks with Purpose Cross-body movements to support focus 60-second resets for breathing + attention Intentional movement (not just “random wiggle time”) 2. Reset Routines After Transitions Build in a 1–2 minute reset after lunch, recess, or specials Use simple check-ins or grounding exercises Don’t expect instant regulation—teach it 3. Calm Down Spaces That Actually Work Focus on regulation—not punishment Include tools students already know how to use Practice when students are calm (not just overwhelmed) Consider portable calm down kits for smaller classrooms ✨ Key Takeaway “They’re not just acting out… they’re overwhelmed.” When we shift from asking “How do I stop this behavior?” to asking “What does this student need right now?” …that’s where real change happens. Resources Mentioned Behavior Toolkit Calm Down Kit Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcast Join Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months! Connect with Carol: TpT Store Counseling Essentials Website Instagram Facebook Elementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook Group Caught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook Group High School Counselor Connection Facebook Group

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