Introduction
Hello, my name is Joe George. I am the middle school counselor at AAS, and I interact with the families of AAS in any way needed. Whether assisting in the creation of a plan, offering a safe, neutral person who will listen, or helping people sort through their own ideas, I try to assist in whatever fashion students, parents, and staff are willing to consider.
Counseling Philosophy
I am a present-focused, relationship-based counselor who believes that people can usually solve their own situations with some assistance. Since most troubling situations tend to stem from current unsatisfactory relationships, flawed choices, and/or flawed beliefs (perceptions), these are common focal points. Although much of my job focuses upon common issues like conflict resolution, career planning, and organization, I also have experience working with less common situations like drug abuse, eating disorders, and self-injury.
Duties and Responsibilities
The following list includes duties and responsibilities I have here at AAS:
- Assisting students in bettering life skills (i.e. coping, social skills, decision-making, etc.)
- Coordinating the middle school advisory program and advisory council
- Holding Counselor Coffees--topical meetings for middle school parents
- Coordinating Grade 8 Peer Helpers
- Assisting the scheduling of students as well as elective coordination and placement
- Participating in grade-level and school-wide student service teams
Helpful Resources
Below you will find links to resources that I often introduce to students and parents alike. Although each resource is more helpful when a counselor acts as a guide, each resource can offer something valuable without any assistance whatsoever.