• Small Group Counseling:   

          Small group lessons will be offered throughout the year for studeA2v nts to discuss specific concerns they have in common with other students.  These groups meet once a week for 30 minutes during students' lunch period so that it doesn't interfere with their academic/specialist work.  Groups consist of 5-7 same aged peers and last for approximately 6-8 weeks.  Permission slips will be sent home prior to the first meeting.  

          Small groups offer an excellent opportunity for students' concerns to be validated since they find that other students experience the same issues.  Confidentiality is a key component in each group to ensure the information discussed in group stays in group.  Confidentiality is explained in the first meeting and enforced throughout the entire time.  

     A referral for small group can come from a teacher, nurse, administrator or a parent/guardian.  

    Small groups offered at Mo Valley Elementary:

    Friendship/social skills:  students learn how to make new friends, maintain relationships and handle a variety of social situations.  Skills are practiced in the safe environment of the group.    

    Self esteem:  students learn how to boost their self esteem by participating in various activities that help them develop an awareness of their identified "weaknesses", but then show them how to turn their thinking around to accent their "strengths".  Positive self talk and positive feedback from peers is a great way to boost one's self esteem!

    Anger management:  students learn positive ways to express their anger, control intense feelings and improve decision making skills.
     
    Identification and expression of feelings:  this group is intended for younger students (grades Kindergarten and 1st grade) to help them understand what "feelings" are and help them see the connection between their thoughts, feelings and actions.  

    Divorce/loss:  for students who have recently experienced a divorce, separation or death in the family, resulting in a change of the family dynamics.  

    Anxiety: students learn how to identify triggers for their anxiety, as well as learn and practice relaxation techniques.  

    New student:  students learn about the school rules, programs and community, as well as discuss any concerns they might have.