Small Group Counseling
New Students Group
Elementary students who are new to the Westford Public Schools are invited to participate in our new student meetings at their individual schools. Parents are notified via a letter of their child’s participation. These groups provide the opportunity for new students to meet other new students, tour the building and meet many of the adult staff members of their school community. Support and information addressing group members’ particular concerns is provided.
Friendship Groups: Frequently called a "Lunch Bunch"
To support students’ social and emotional development, counseling groups are offered to provide children with the opportunity for extra instruction, practice and support. These groups may be held during lunch time or snack time and focus on interpersonal and intrapersonal skill development.
Personal space, turn taking, being a good sport, conflict resolution and dealing with teasing are examples of the interpersonal skills addressed at the elementary level. Intrapersonal skills could include stress/anxiety management, overcoming shyness, impulse control and self-confidence. Regular participation in guidance services can be initiated by a parent, teacher, and/or administrator in consultation with the school counselor. Parental permission is required for regular participation in these groups. At times, some regular group members may be allowed to invite a friend to their counseling group as part of our “bring a friend” activity.
Time-limited Groups
Short-term counseling groups are offered on an as needed basis. Topics have included changing families groups for children whose families are experiencing a separation, divorce or remarriage, loss and transition groups for children who have experienced a major loss, stress management, overcoming shyness and study/organization skills. Referral and permission requirements are the same as for the friendship groups (see above).
Individual Counseling
Self Referral
Children may self refer to the counselor when they have a worry or problem. Many of our elementary schools use a counseling pass system through which a child would come to the guidance office using a guidance pass. In all cases the child would need to first discuss their problem with their teacher. After this collaboration, the teacher will decide if the problem can be worked out in the classroom or needs to be referred to the counselor. If the counselor is available the child is seen immediately and if not, usually the child could be seen later that day or the next day. When a child visits with the counselor a note is sent home. Children are always encouraged to discuss their concerns with parents. Similarly parents are encouraged to contact the counselor with any questions or concerns. Telephone calls
are placed to parents when necessary.
Individual Counseling
Individual counseling is offered on a very limited basis and it is usually short term.
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