School Counselor

 

 

Canvas Course Enroll Link: https://pwcs.instructure.com/enroll/P8PKCM

 

Q. Who are the School Counselors?

Hi everyone! My name is Rebecca Marshall and I am the full-time school counselor at Bel Air Elementary School. This is my 20th year at Bel Air and my 22nd year in the Prince William County school system. I received my degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in Elementary Education and Psychology and my Master's in Education, with specialization in School Counseling from Millersville University. I am a member of the Virginia School Counselor Association and the American School Counselor Association. I love being a school counselor and I am excited to work with your children and help them reach their fullest potential.

 

Q. What do School Counselors do?

Individual counseling

• Small group counseling

• Classroom guidance lessons

• Consultation and collaboration with teachers, parents, and administrators

• Plan special events such Red Ribbon Week and the Great Kindness Challenge

Q. Do School Counselors provide therapy?

No, school counselors do not provide therapy. Although school counselors are highly trained, we are not able to diagnose or treat mental illness as a therapist would in a private practice or outside agency. If a student needs long-term, intensive services, school counselors can refer them to a therapist in the community who can help.

Q. Is a School Counselor's work confidential?

Yes, school counselors respect students by keeping the information they share confidential. A critical step in building trust and rapport with students is making sure they know that we will respect their privacy. School counselors will share critical information with teachers, parents and administrators on a "need to know" basis. If a student is hurting themselves or someone else, or someone else is hurting them, the school counselor will inform the appropriate stakeholders right away to ensure their safety.

Please note: If your child is doing virtual learning, there will be limits to confidentiality. Additionally, counselors will inform families when a student meets with a school counselor.

Q. How do we contact the school counselor?

  • Students can let their teacher know if they wish to speak with the school counselor.
  • Links will be added to the school counselors' Canvas page that will help students access a "Request to see the Counselor" form.
  • Parents and staff can reach the school counselors by email: Rebecca Marshall: [email protected] or by phone at 703-670-4050.