Truths & Myths About Counseling
Time to dispel some of the common assumptions kids have about School Counselors!!!
Myth: The Counselor is going to blab what I say to my teachers and parents.
Truth: Pretty much everything you say to a School Counselor is confidential, which means that we will keep it private. There are a few exceptions: when someone is getting hurt, is in danger, or involved with something illegal. In these cases, we are required to share the information with the appropriate people. Of course, there may be issues that come up that we might encourage you to share with teachers or parents, but the decision is up to you.
Myth: The Counselor is going to boss me around and tell me what to do.
Truth: Actually, the best Counselors help kids solve their own problems. We might make suggestions, but teaching problem-solving skills is one of our main goals. One of the benefits of talking to a Counselor is that we've been around awhile, so chances are good that we've seen a problem like yours before. That means that we probably have some good ideas for you to try, and we will help you pick the one that seems right for you.
Myth: If I talk to a Counselor, it means I am crazy or that I have something wrong with me.
Truth: If you talk to a Counselor, it means you are smart enough to realize that you might need some help in solving a problem. Lots of people have seen a Counselor at some point in their lives, and most of them have found it helpful. Sure, Counselors see people with serious problems, but most of their "clients" are just regular people going through tough times.
Myth: The Counselor is going to blab what I say to my teachers and parents.
Truth: Pretty much everything you say to a School Counselor is confidential, which means that we will keep it private. There are a few exceptions: when someone is getting hurt, is in danger, or involved with something illegal. In these cases, we are required to share the information with the appropriate people. Of course, there may be issues that come up that we might encourage you to share with teachers or parents, but the decision is up to you.
Myth: The Counselor is going to boss me around and tell me what to do.
Truth: Actually, the best Counselors help kids solve their own problems. We might make suggestions, but teaching problem-solving skills is one of our main goals. One of the benefits of talking to a Counselor is that we've been around awhile, so chances are good that we've seen a problem like yours before. That means that we probably have some good ideas for you to try, and we will help you pick the one that seems right for you.
Myth: If I talk to a Counselor, it means I am crazy or that I have something wrong with me.
Truth: If you talk to a Counselor, it means you are smart enough to realize that you might need some help in solving a problem. Lots of people have seen a Counselor at some point in their lives, and most of them have found it helpful. Sure, Counselors see people with serious problems, but most of their "clients" are just regular people going through tough times.
If you are having an issue that you would like help with, M.S. 45 School Counselors are here for you. Just visit your Counselor in room 103 to make an appointment.
