Counseling and Mental Health Resources

The Role of a School Counselor

School counselors are certified educators with a pupil personnel services (PPS) credential in school counseling and are qualified to address the academic, career, and social/ emotional needs of all students. The role of a school counselor is to design and deliver a school counseling program that improves student outcomes for all students. We collaborate with teachers and parents on early identification and intervention of children’s academic and social/emotional needs, which is essential in removing barriers to learning and developing skills and behaviors critical for academic achievement. We offer students professional assistance and support one-on-one or in small groups during times of transition, heightened stress, critical change, or other situations impeding student success. All school counselors uphold the ethical and professional standards of the American School Counseling Association (ASCA).

Social-Emotional Learning

Just like students need to learn to read and write, they also need to be taught social skills and emotional wellness. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) improves personal and academic performance and reduces emotional stress and problem behaviors. These skills are a foundational piece for kids to succeed in school, careers, and life. The lessons below focus on these imperative skills. 

Additionally, students in grades TK-12 can attend our live weekly SEL lessons. More information about these school counseling resources can be found in the Sage News or you can get more information by completing our interest form. 

College and Career Counseling
Post High School planning is an important step that every student eventually needs to take. Graduating from the K-12 system is both exciting and scary at the same time, especially if you are unsure about what happens next. Your school counselor can help with this process by offering various forms of support such as individual counseling and group counseling where we discuss transitional skills from Middle School to High School and High School to Post-High School. Whatever your plan may be, your school counselor can help with answering your questions and doubts. 

Academic Counseling
School can be tough and frustrating at times. However, it doesn’t always have to be. There are various skills and behaviors that we can engage in to make school that much more fun. Although your school counselor can’t make the subjects easier, we can definitely help with strategies and skills to help you through the obstacles and challenges. This can include study skills, note-taking, general tips for reducing test anxiety, and much more. We can create different groups to help with motivation and self-efficacy, the belief in oneself. Additionally, we can begin preparing to ensure that your student is College and Career ready so that they can be eligible and best prepared for 4-year university. This includes A-G Requirements, SAT/ACT, and GPA coaching!

Group & Individual Counseling Options

Counseling groups are offered throughout the school year. Groups, based on grade level bands, and filled on a first-come, first-serve basis and are capped at 8 students. Here is a master list of groups and topics. Sign-ups are shared in the Sage News. Individual counseling is available for students identified by their teacher and/or parent referral. School counseling is short-term, solution-focused counseling aimed to provide students with strategies and ideas to help improve their social-emotional health. School counselors practice confidentiality when working with students and everything discussed is confidential unless a student discloses that they are/ plan to hurt themselves, others, or someone is hurting them. 

If you have any questions about our counseling groups or need support for your student, please complete the Counselor Help Form, and you will hear from one of our counselors within 24 hours.

Mental Health Support

At Sage Oak, we are passionate and dedicated to working with parents to provide a personalized, educational experience for students that don’t just address their academic development, but also their personal development. Just as important as our physical health, our mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. The resources below are either free or can be purchased using instructional funds. 

Coping Strategies 

When the kids in our life struggle, we often wonder how to best help them. Just as our children learn in different ways, they also cope in different ways. There is not a “one size fits all'' approach to coping. Below are some different ideas you can explore to help your child find practical ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and anger. 

Additional Mental Health Support & Resources: 

Is It a Phase, or Does My Child Need Help? It’s a question many parents ask themselves. We want to ensure you have the right resources to meet your children’s needs. These resources are for families interested in seeking additional guidance on navigating behavioral and mental healthcare treatment.

Suicide Prevention

While suicide is the second leading cause of death among school-aged youth, it is also preventable! It’s very important to take all concerns seriously and share empathy and concern. If you or a loved one are showing signs of suicidal behavior: giving away belongings, writing goodbye notes, or making plans on how to end their life, please get immediate professional support by calling 9-1-1, National Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, or texting HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Again, youth suicide is preventable, and we want to play an important part in this role! If you have additional questions about youth suicide or need additional support, please reach out to your Sage Oak teacher or complete our School Counseling Help Request Form. 

COVID-19 Resources

The impact of COVID-19 on our students and community has been challenging for many, and we want to do our best to support you. 

LGBTQ+ Resources