Counselor Chat Podcast Carol Miller, School Counselor

Today's episode we talk about 10 creative ways to use a plain piece of paper as a powerful school counseling tool
Creative Paper Activities:
1. Mind Mapping:
- Visual representation of thoughts and feelings
- Great for brainstorming and organizing ideas
2. Goal Setting:
- Fold paper into sections for short-term and long-term goals
- Create a roadmap to visualize progress
3. Art Therapy:
- Encourage self-expression and emotional articulation
- Activities like "I am" statements with watercolors
4. Scribble Drawing:
- Eyes-closed scribbling turned into a masterpiece
- Promotes creativity and finding beauty in the unexpected
5. What If Scenarios:
- List and analyze "what if" thoughts
- Differentiate realistic concerns from exaggerated fears
6. Journaling Prompts:
- Use prompts or quotes for reflection and emotional processing
- Option to draw responses
7. Collage Creation:
- Reflect interests, values, and aspirations with cut-out images
- Enhances self-awareness and pride
8. Origami:
- Therapeutic activity promoting mindfulness and relaxation
- Simple projects like paper boats and cootie catchers
9. Letter Writing:
- Write letters to themselves to express thoughts and hopes
- Revisit letters to track personal growth
10. Timelines:
- Chart significant life events or future goals
- Explore identity and experiences
Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor Chat
Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy counseling!

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 StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group
Mentioned in this episode:
Perks Membership

Join me today as we talk all about how to use mind mapping as a school counselor to enhance your school counseling program.
Mind Mapping is a visual technique to organize thoughts, information, and ideas. The benefits of using mind mapping is that it enhances creativity, helps with critical thinking, and eases problem-solving skills.
Steps to Create a Mind Map:
1. Start with a blank paper or whiteboard
2. Place the central thought in the middle
3. Branch out with related ideas and subtopics
4. Avoid judging ideas initially, just brainstorm freely
5. Link and structure thoughts to create a cohesive map
Benefits for School Counseling:
Program Development: Outline goals, strategies, and evaluation methodsExample: Planning a career fair using mind mapping to brainstorm contacts, logistics, and activitiesStudent Support: Identify needs and design targeted interventionsCategorize support services: academic assistance, mental health resources, career guidance
Effective Mind Mapping Tips:
Begin with a clear central theme or objectiveUse keywords or images for ideasKeep it simple and conciseEmbrace creativity and unconventional connectionsKeep and revisit the mind map for ongoing revisions
Contact Information:
Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of Counselor ChatEmail me at Carol@CounselingEssentials.org
Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Happy mind mapping!

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 StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group
Mentioned in this episode:
Perks Membership

Tips for Attending the ASCA Conference & Exciting Updates!
Join Brandy Thompson as she takes over the Counselor Chat podcast for this episode! Brandy shares valuable tips for making the most of your ASCA conference experience. Get ready for essential packing advice, networking strategies, and must-see sessions.
**Key Points:**
ASCA Conference Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes and pack light.
- Bring a sweater for cold conference rooms.
- Download the conference app for updates and schedules.
- Don’t miss the exhibit hall for networking and discovering new resources.
- Participate in social events and mixers to meet fellow counselors.
- Utilize social media and follow the hashtag #ASCA24 for real-time updates.
Exploring Kansas City:
- Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National WWI Museum, Kansas City Zoo, and more.
- Enjoy local BBQ at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Arthur Bryant’s.
Booth 506: Visit Carol and Brandi at the exhibit hall for the Perks Counseling Content Club. Get exclusive swag and learn about their comprehensive counseling resources.
Links and Resources:
- 2024 Summer Counselor Conference Registration
Follow Brandy at:
The Counseling Teacher
The Counseling Teacher Brandy on TpT
Perks Content Club

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- Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others find the show!

Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, enjoy your ASCA conference and happy conferencing!

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Feel free to make adjustments to fit your style and specific needs!
Resources Mentioned:Summer Counselor Conference
Mentioned in this episode:
Perks Membership

In this episode:
I am thrilled to have my friend Leslie from Informed Decisions join us. Leslie is a fantastic social worker based in Brooklyn, New York, with a wealth of experience working with diverse groups, including court-involved youth, LGBTQ+ individuals, teen mothers, special needs populations, and fellow educators.
Leslie shares her invaluable insights on advisories and SEL (Social Emotional Learning) programs, providing practical advice and real-world examples to help school counselors effectively engage their students and create impactful programs.
Key Highlights:
Leslie’s Background: Get to know Leslie and her extensive experience working with various populations and settings.Starting from Scratch: Leslie offers actionable tips for counselors who are new to advisories and SEL programs or need to start from scratch.Importance of Space and Resources: Learn how understanding your space and available resources can significantly impact the success of your programs.Using Existing Resources: Discover the value of connecting with existing programs and curriculums to avoid reinventing the wheel and save time.Collecting and Using Data: Leslie emphasizes the importance of data collection in demonstrating the impact of your programs to administration and stakeholders.Favorite Groups and Programs: Leslie shares her favorite types of groups and programs to run, and why advisory programs hold a special place in her heart.Practical Tips: From over-planning to the magic of lamination, Leslie and I share our top tips for staying organized and prepared.
Special Mention: Leslie will also be one of our esteemed presenters at the 2024 Summer Counselor Conference!
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from her extensive experience and practical advice.
Connect with Leslie:
Informed DecisionsTpTIG
Links Leslie mentioned:
Youth to Youth- This is the program that models alternatives to using drugs and/or alcohol Social Emotional Learning and Advisory Survey -This resources allows students to provide their input. Which helps you form connections and see what topics they are interested in discussing. The resource includes both a handout and digital survey10 simple Tips for Forming Connections in an Advisory or SEL Class - Getting student buy-in9 easy ways of getting principal buy-in for anadvisory and sel program
Resources Mentioned:Summer Counselor ConferenceLaminator

Grab the Show Notes:...

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I'm diving into the importance of establishing a balanced summer routine for school counselors.
I should forewarn you—this episode might stir some debate about summer routines for school counselors, but it’s important to talk about.
Key Takeaways:Rest and Relaxation:
Importance of taking time to rest and rejuvenateEnjoying quality moments with family and friends
Reflect and Plan:
Reflecting on the past school yearSetting goals for the upcoming school year
Professional Development:
Engaging in workshops and online coursesHighlights of the Summer Counselor Conference
Organization:
Tips for decluttering and organizing personal and professional spaces
Connect and Collaborate:
Building and maintaining a professional network
Self-Care:
Focusing on overall wellness, including physical and mental health
Resources Mentioned: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 StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group
Mentioned in this episode:
Perks Membership

In this episode of Counselor Chat, I sit down with Jenice Lee. a youth development consultant and the voice behind the podcast School After Hours. Jenice shares her extensive experience and insights on the importance of after-school programs, their benefits, and how school counselors can effectively collaborate with these programs to create a cohesive and supportive school culture.
Topics Discussed:
The 2024 Summer Counselor Conference details and how to registerBenefits of after-school programs for student growth and engagementStrategies for building successful after-school programsThe role of school counselors in supporting and partnering with after-school programsTips for starting your own after-school sessions, including research and community partnershipsExamples of successful after-school programs and their impact on studentsHow to secure funding and resources for long-term program sustainability
Connect With Jenice:Website:  https://www.schoolafterhours.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/schoolafterhoursInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/schoolafterhours/
Join the conference: https://carol-miller-counseling-essentials.mykajabi.com/a/2147845963/ND9oBmLW

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 StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook Group
Mentioned in this episode:
Perks Membership