Counselor Accents

The Role School Counselors Play in Mending Education with Dr. Karen Gross Nov 19, 2024

In this episode Dr. Karen Gross joins us to talk about her new book, Mending Education. Dr. Gross explains so beautifully why some of the processes and procedures are failing to work the same way they worked pre-pandemic. She shows us some of the changes that actually worked really as we educated students through the pandemic, why we should keep them in place, and how the rush to return to "normal" may have actually caused some of the behaviors and frustration we are witnessing and experiencing now.

Perspective from a School Counselor to Be Oct 13, 2024

No matter where you are in your school counseling journey, sometimes it is great to talk with someone who is just beginning their journey. In this episode we talk with Shae, a school counseling student, and get her perspective on the future of school counseling, what she is being prepared for as far as the uptick in behaviors, and what she wants veteran school counselors to know. This episode is a great reminder of why we do what we do, and we hope it serves as some inspiration to reach out to someone new in the trenches and share some kind words or assistance!

The Ultimate School Counseling Bundle- 90% Off

Growing Your Program Wait List

An Interview with THE Julia Cook Oct 07, 2024

If you've been a school counselor for longer than 5 minutes, you have most likely used a resource from Julia Cook. In this episode she shares how she got started, why she loves school counseling, and what she has coming up next! The things she talks about in this episode will save you time, make you successful, and position you as a leader!

Sign up for Cookie Bytes

Addiction Resources School Counselors Can Share featuring guest: Kriya Lendzion Sep 03, 2024

Kriya Lendzion has been called "The Teen Whisperer." Once you listen to this episode, you will understand why! In this episode she shares statistics about addiction, primarily related to vaping, but she includes alcohol and even screen addiction! She also shares strategies and how school counselors can advocate for policies to help support students overcoming their addictions. This is one of those episodes that ALL educators and parents need to hear!

Click here for Kriya's resource page!

Sign up for more of Kriya's resources.

School Counselor Voice Live from ASCA! Aug 10, 2024

Our roving reporter, Mallory Jacobs, was on the streets of the ASCA conference, talking with YOU about all of the things you learned and loved about the conference this year. If you haven't been to an ASCA conference, we would highly recommend listening to this episode so you can start advocating now to join us next year! Take a listen- you might hear yourself, and at the very least we think you'll at least chuckle here and there!

Owala Water Bottle

Growing Your Program Course Wait List

Alabama Critical Issues Conference

Difficult Topics School Counselors Need to Talk About Aug 07, 2024

There are several topics that school counselors have to share each year that feel uncomfortable or difficult to talk about. Many of these topics are required, but that doesn't make it any easier! In this episode we're giving you resources and ideas on ways to cover these difficult topics that school counselors need to talk about.

Here is a link to a free lesson on hygiene.

The Art of Collaboration and Advocacy Between School Counselors and Administrators Jul 23, 2024

This episode is full of various ways to take your school counseling program to the next level. In this episode, School Counselor Extraordinaire, Sarah Nauman, joins her administrator, Dr.. Heather Baker, to talk about how they collaborate to find new approaches to behaviors and programs. This collaboration has led to advocacy opportunities for Sarah as well as school and community buy-in for her program. This is one of those episodes that you could listen to multiple times and find new information each time!

Everyone Has a Story- A Student Named Junie Jul 07, 2024

In this episode former Missouri Teacher of the Year, Darbie Valenti Huff, recounts the story of a student named Junie. Junie had behavior issues, hygiene issues, you name it! School counselors and all educators need to hear this story about a student who seemed almost impossible to help. We all have students like Junie. Listen to find out what became of Junie and what educators can do to reach the seemingly unreachable.

Book Darbie to do a powerful PD at your school: darbieh@msta.org

Find her on social media: @miss_d_valenti

Transitioning to Another Grade Level as a School Counselor Jun 28, 2024

Are you making the switch to another grade level? This time of year can feel like "fruit basket turnover," and can leave you wondering what to take with you to your new office, how to interact with the students in another age group, and how to run your program effectively at another school. We are tackling this topic in this episode!

Finding Happiness and Spreading Joy as School Counselors with Mallory Jacobs Jun 20, 2024

If you can only listen to one episode this week, MAKE IT THIS ONE!!! Mallory Jacobs is a force in the school counseling world. She has been named the Kansas School Counselor of the Year, and she wears the crown well! She exudes joy, spreads positivity, and has a gift for seeing the best in most situations. In this episode she shares how she does that, and why, as school counselors, it is sometimes necessary for us to do this with our students.

Understanding Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating for School Counselors Jun 13, 2024

If you're like us, one of the areas we lack training in is eating disorders; however, without fail, we have students each year who struggle with this. In this episode Lauren Dorman, Mental Health Registered Dietitian, shares the difference between eating disorders and disordered eating. She gives us tips to share with parents and ways we can help our students.

Click here to download Lauren's Myth Fact Sheet

Click here to visit Lauren's website

Signs and Symptoms of Disordered Eating

School Counseling Interview Tips and General Tips for Being a Leader May 29, 2024

It's that time of year again! Aspiring new school counselors are venturing out to land their first job, or maybe you're listening because you are sitting in on the interviews for other positions in your school. Whatever your reason- even if only for the laughs, we believe some great leadership tips and dos and don'ts are being shared in this episode.

Click here to join the Summer Counselor Conference

Click here to purchase our book, Growing Your Program for School Counselors

Ending Your School Counseling Year on a High Note May 08, 2024

In this episode we are sharing 5 tips to help you finish your school counseling year strong. These 5 tips are also a great way to ensure that you start your school counseling year by "plowing your first row straight." We talk a little about data, organization, evaluations, and some topics that we really don't even want to put in writing! 🤣 🐉 iykyk

Growing Your Program for School Counselors Book

Growing Your Program for School Counselors Course

School Counselors and the Responsibility of Voice Apr 29, 2024

In this episode we will be talking about our recent New York City adventure. We are also sharing the responsibility we have as school counselors to share the voice of our students, who are the most marginalized and vulnerable members of society. Some of our discussion includes training teachers to understand student voice. In our course, Growing Your Program, we share the specifics of how we train teachers to understand the story that our students have.

Join the Waitlist for Our Course

Twenty-Five Years Later: A School Counselor Reflects on Columbine Apr 16, 2024

Sandy Austin answered the call to help victims and families on the day of the Columbine school shooting 25 years ago. In this episode she shares her story and the inspiration behind her B.I.O.N.I.C. program. Check it out and start changing your school's culture today!

Click here to check out B.I.O.N.I.C.

Stress Contagion and School Counselors Mar 24, 2024

Stress contagion may be a new term to you, but it refers to the phenomenon where individuals within a group or social network can "catch" or be influenced by the stress levels of others around them. And whether it's your first or your fifty-first year in a school, please let us remind you that 'tis the season for stress! Understanding the relationship between stress contagion and school counselors is important, and we have some strategies to help you keep that stress contagion from spreading!

Missouri Virtual Session

New Jersey Spring School Counseling Conference

Growing Your Program Wait List

The School Counselor's Role in Helping Students Transition to the Next Grade Level Feb 27, 2024

School counseling means sharing in rites of passage for our students. Moving to the next grade is one of those! In this episode we're sharing a few rubber meets the road things you can get started on now to make transitioning to the next grade level go smoothly for your students and teachers!

School-Wide Test Taking Tips for School Counselors and Building Test Coordinators Feb 19, 2024

Whether you're the building test coordinator or not, this episode is full of school-wide tips that everyone can benefit from! We are sharing 7 of our best tips plus a few extra "rubber meets the road" strategies.

We haven't met anyone who loves standardized testing season, but in most states it is a requirement. This episode may help bring some calm to the chaos that surrounds the testing season.

Growing Your Program Wait List

Attack the Test Lesson

Bee Ready Test Taking Lesson

Train Your Brain Centers

Too Many School Counseling Tasks and Not Enough Time! Feb 12, 2024

Tis the season for so many school counseling tasks! Then again, when ISN'T the season for so many school counseling tasks?! When there are too many school counseling tasks and not enough time, we might start to feel hopelessness, anger, bitterness, frustration, and burn out. We believe we have 5 ways to avoid these pitfalls. Listen for a few strategies that just might help you avoid burn out this season!

More Behavior Strategies for School Counselors to Use Feb 06, 2024

We recorded this episode on the go, literally! But with the need for behavior strategies at an all-time high, we felt like it was imperative to bring this episode to you! In this episode you'll get to hear from not one, not two, but three behavior experts! These guests will bring powerful strategies and practical applications that you can help teachers implement in the classroom. These are 3 of the speakers we will be having at our upcoming Behavior Detour Conference. Sign up now by clicking here!

Join the wait list for our course, Growing Your Program

Behavior Tips for School Counselors from the School Counselor Coach Jan 28, 2024

School counselors are often one of the first people contacted when a student is displaying challenging behaviors. With behaviors being a main challenge right now for a lot of

counselors, Monique Young has developed her services by intentionally improving social skills through individual and small group counseling. In this episode Monique gives listeners ideas of what behavior challenges can be addressed through school counseling services.

Follow Monique!

@TheSchoolCounselorCoach on Instagram

Email her at youngmindcreationsllc@gmail.com

Join our Behavior Detour Conference!

Join the waiting list for our Growing Your Program course!

Purchase our book, Growing Your Program for School Counselors.

Purchase our children's book, Hi Gene!

The hotdog cooker we mention in this episode.

Raising the Tough Kid As a School Counselor Jan 17, 2024

It can be difficult to have all the answers as a school counselor while raising the tough kid at home. In this episode Carey Hughes shares ways that she managed to advocate for her own child while serving the students at her school. She has found that her experience has given her even more compassion for the families of her students.

Join our Behavior Detour Conference!

Book Recommendations:

The Highly Sensitive Child

The Explosive Child

5+ Ideas for National School Counseling Week Jan 10, 2024

National School Counseling Week is such an important week for school counselors. We're sharing five (or more) ideas on ways you can spread the word and "humble brag" about your school counseling program during National School Counseling Week 2024. Just a word of caution: it's not about receiving gifts during National School Counseling Week. It's about advocating for your program.

Tapped Out- Emotional Freedom Techniques with Kathleen Weber Dec 31, 2023

As school counselors, we often try to find the underlying issue/s behind unwanted behaviors in hopes that addressing those needs will deliver a different outcome. Even with this knowledge, however, we might still struggle to effect change. At their core, unwanted behaviors are a result of a dysregulated nervous system. In this episode Kathleen Weber explains what Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) are and how EFT can be used in and out of the classroom to support nervous system regulation for our students and for ourselves. With gentle tapping on specific acupressure points, Kathleen will walk us through some exercises to help reduce stress and restore balance to our emotional well-being.

Contact Kathleen here.

Kathleen's Website

Join Kathleen's free master class! Make sure to tell her you heard about her on the Counselor Accents podcast.

Counseling Solutions Using Everyday Items Dec 18, 2023

We have been big fans of Brent Cosby for years. In this episode he shares practical ways to use everyday objects to help with most situations that walk through your counseling door. Listen to this episode and we can almost guarantee you will be a big fan of Brent Cosby, too!

Sign up here for our Behavior Detour Conference

A link to our book, Growing Your Program for School Counselors.

Here's our new book, Hi Gene!

Trauma Informed with Michael McKnight Nov 20, 2023

We're revisiting an oldie but goodie! We recorded this episode 3 years ago, but it is so relevant for what we're experiencing in education today! In this episode Michael McKnight explains what ACE stands for, how to explain them to staff members, and the power of one caring adult. This is one of those episodes we believe should be shared with ALL educators.

Eyes Are Never Quiet Book

Unwritten Book

Sign up to receive a portion of ticket sales to the Behavior Detour Conference

Help, I'm Drowning! Apps and Technology to Help You Work Smarter Not Harder Nov 14, 2023

Anybody else feel like you're drowning? We want to help you by suggesting some apps and technology that can help you work smarter not harder! Listen as we share about 12 different tools that we've either used or plan to use to help us from day to day as school counselors. We're curious- what apps help you each day?

Kim's Fall Break Adventure AND Info About Our Behavior Conference Nov 08, 2023

We felt like taking a quick break from talking about school counseling strategies and wanted to share a story about Kim's near brush with who knows what during fall break! Kim has a flair for exaggeration, but something tells me this story is accurate! Listen as she takes us on a journey!

We also take a few minutes in this episode to talk about our upcoming behavior conference! We are consistently asked about how to manage behaviors, and how to support teachers in managing behaviors. We are putting together a conference to help with those questions! Find out how YOU can earn an extra paycheck through this behavior conference.

https://forms.gle/fp1JKhF894pjxAuk9

Everyone Has a Story- Before, During, and After a Personal Tragedy Oct 23, 2023

In this episode, Nour shares her personal story of what happened to her family when she was in high school. From the outside looking in, things seemed perfect. Nour was a good student with no behavior issues. She blended in with the other students at her school. Right after her graduation, an unfathomable tragedy happened right in front of her. As always, we hope you listen to this and think of ways to reach your students who might be living through traumatic situations at home.

Submit a proposal for our virtual behavior conference!

Purchase our School Counseling Book

We are Amazon Associates. Sometimes our links will send you to our Amazon account. It is no extra cost to you!

What Would You Do If... Oct 08, 2023

As a school counselor have you ever found yourself in a situation where you wonder what you should do? For example, if you switched schools and realized day to day life is different from what was covered in your interview, what would you do? Or if you are asked to present to the staff, what would you talk about? In this episode we are answering some of the questions you've asked us! Listen in as we discuss attendance incentives, questioning your new school placement, and more!

It is no secret that student behaviors are escalating. We are currently accepting proposals for our first ever virtual behavior conference! If you're interested in presenting, please fill out this presentation proposal form. Sessions will be prerecorded and will be available beginning on February 9, 2024. Proposals are due by November 10.

Shine a Light on Your School Counseling Program- Marketing Your Program with Sweety Patel Oct 01, 2023

In this episode Sweety Patel shares some of the highlights from her article for the ASCA magazine where she talked about the importance of marketing your school counseling program. Marketing your program is vital so that others know about the great things that you are doing in your school and community! She focuses specifically on using social media to reach the community. We hope you are inspired to shine a light on your program after listening to this episode!

School Counseling Amazon Must-Haves Sep 18, 2023

In this episode we are sharing the school counseling must-haves we have found on Amazon. We believe these items will help you with organization, small groups, whole groups, or individual sessions. Let us know what your favorite Amazon purchase of the year has been! Plus listen until the end for an exclusive interview with Ellie Blair, Laura's younger daughter. She has a story to tell about some playground trauma. You don't want to miss it!

Growing Your Program for School Counselors

What's Inside Your Backpack Book

Punch Cards

Picking Stone

Everyone Has a Story- A Story of Childhood Trauma Sep 04, 2023

In this episode Holly Wilcox shares the story of her childhood, one full of multiple adverse childhood experiences or ACEs. You will be gripped by her ability to overcome, forgive, and use her experiences to help others.

Holly paints the picture of some of our students who might be living through the nightmare of abuse. She reminds us that these students don't always fit the mold of what we look for. She also shares practical tips we can use when helping some of our students.

Adult Children of Alcoholics

Co-dependents Anonymous

PBS Special

Kevin Honeycutt Episode

The How and Why of Play Therapy at All Age Levels Aug 28, 2023

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning” — Fred Rogers

In this episode Fondra Magee (a current school counselor in Washington, school based registered play therapist, and member of the Washington State Play Therapy Association Board of Directors) leads us through all of our burning questions about using play therapy in schools. She explains how we can use it without crossing the therapy boundary, why it makes sense to use it, and tips and tricks that you can implement today at your school.

**Don't forget to rate and review this podcast!**

Garry Landreth's Book, The Art of Play Therapy

Association for Play Therapy

School-based Play Therapy Credentials Information

Our Book! Growing Your Program for School Counselors

Teaching Teachers About Trauma Aug 16, 2023

We believe it is important that teachers know the role of the school counselor, but as behaviors are changing, our message and training should change too. In this episode we are sharing why teachers need to be trauma informed, and we are also giving rubber meets the road training points to include when you talk to your faculty. And of course we have some laughs along the way.

The Importance of Collaborating Across All Grade Levels Aug 06, 2023

Lauren Tingle from Counselor Clique collaborates with us in this episode, which is all about... Collaboration! Find out why it is important for elementary counselors to know what secondary counselors are focusing on, and how secondary counselors can help elementary counselors with some of their initiatives. We hope you get some practical, rubber meets the road ideas on how to start these conversations. Maybe this episode will spark conversations across your school system!

Here is a link to our book!

Follow Lauren Tingle/Counselor Clique

Everyone Has a Story: The Devastating Effects of a Sextortion Scam Jul 30, 2023

This episode will be difficult to listen to, but absolutely necessary. In this episode we talk with Brian Montgomery, a father of four from Mississippi. He shares how a sextortion scam changed his family within a matter of hours. There were none of the warning signs that we have all been educated to look for. We hope that all educators, parents, aunts, uncles, guardians and concerned citizens will be informed and inspired to take action to prevent another devastating loss.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children- Sextortion Page

Contact Brian Montgomery

Kids Online Safety Act

A Link to Our Book

Our Summer Reading (Watch or Listen) List Jul 23, 2023

When we finally have a little down time to sit back and enjoy a good book, podcast, or TV show, it can be frustrating if we don't know what to read, watch, or listen to! In this episode we're giving you our school counselor summer reading list. We've included a mix of nonfiction, fiction, plus OUR book Growing Your Program for School Counselors that was just recently released. Start compiling your list today and let us know whose list you like better, Laura's or Kim's!

Live from the ASCA Conference! Jul 18, 2023

We've got a few funny stories for you from our experience at ASCA this year! Listen in as we talk about the RAMP dinner. What do a strawberry, a pecan, and a toenail all have in common? Listen in and find out!

Here is a link with your special offer already applied! Share it with a friend!

Part 2: Adding Creativity to Your School Counseling Program Jul 03, 2023

This is part 2 of how to add creativity to your school counseling program. In this episode we share several rubber meets the road tips, as well as some stories, and of course some laughs. We truly believe that finding that creativity and tapping into what you're passionate about can be a game changer for your upcoming school year.

Adding Creativity to Your School Counseling Program Jun 20, 2023

We believe that this time of year is the perfect time to reflect and think about what worked this year, and what improvements can be made for the upcoming year. In this episode we give several rubber meets the road tips on how to add creativity to your school counseling program, and why we think it's important. There are so many tips and discussions about each tip, we decided to make this 2 episodes. Enjoy the first half this week and the second half next week.

Marketing, Minute Meetings, and More with Dr. Danielle Schultz Jun 13, 2023

Dr. Danielle Schultz is a treasure trove of ideas and information. Our brains were in constant planning mode when we finished this episode. Listen in as she gives us the ideas behind minute meetings, how she has made them work over the years, and how she uses the information. We also pick her brain about how she markets her school counseling program and why it's important. We guarantee you will come away from this episode with a few new ideas on how to take your school counseling program to the next level!

Interviewing the Interviewer Jun 07, 2023

You may be tempted to skip this episode if you are snug and content in your current role; however, we would encourage you to give it a listen anyway! The idea behind this episode is to help those of you who are searching for jobs to interview the interviewer. Ask questions to make sure the school will be a good fit for you. If you aren't able to be selective, at least the answers you get from these questions will help you know what to expect on your first day. It is always good to ask questions to ensure your understanding of your role lines up with your administrator's expectation of the role of the school counselor. Even if it's your 21st year, these questions may help guide a conversation with your administrator to bring new life to this upcoming year!

What to Do When You Feel Like Quitting Apr 17, 2023

We have heard from so many of you how you are struggling with the decision to continue in your role or look for a change. As two school counselors who are in the trenches with you, we certainly agree that this year (and the past few years) have been like none other. In this episode we talk about how to determine whether it's time to walk away, change schools, change school levels, or just take a nap. We hope that this conversation helps you as you navigate what could possibly be a life-altering decision. Share this with a school counseling friend who may be having the same thoughts.

Counselors for Computing Workshop we mention in this episode.

Link to our school counseling course.

Everybody Has a Story- The Why Behind the Behavior Apr 03, 2023

Steve Simpson, a New York media veteran and nationally recognized, award-winning child advocate, shares his personal story. As he does, he points out some of the reasons for the behaviors we see in our students. At a time when educators are wondering how to handle the behavior issues they are seeing, Steve's story and solutions are very needed. As you listen to this episode, we are certain that you will be thinking of students you've encountered over the years. Perhaps Steve's story will shed light on the why behind the behavior.

Check out Steve's books here.

Behavior Strategies with Amie Dean the Behavior Queen Mar 21, 2023

This may be our most needed podcast yet! Amie Dean, the Behavior Queen is sharing timely, quick, and easy strategies to use with various student behaviors. As school counselors we are often viewed as the specialists on student behavior; however, the behaviors we have witnessed and heard about in recent years have escalated quickly. This will be an episode you will want to listen to multiple times in order to grasp the rubber meets the road practical tips that Amie shares with us.

School Counseling Leadership with Matthew McClain Mar 13, 2023

We have said it before, and we will no doubt say it again- school counselors are leaders. ASCA tells us this. You are a leader in your school, community, and even nation! Matthew McClain, Executive Director of the Colorado School Counselor Association, drives home the reason why this is so important. He explains how he got started in school counseling leadership, and what a difference it has made in his career! Listen in as he shares practical, rubber meets the road tips that will help propel you forward in your school counseling role!

The Reasons for the Increase in Educator Burnout Feb 20, 2023

In this episode we talk about the drastic rise in educator burnout. We are tackling the reasons why educators are walking away from the profession at an alarming rate. We will be doing another episode soon on school counselor burnout. If you haven't already, go comment on our Instagram or Facebook post on this topic. This episode is coming at you straight from the Dayton, Ohio airport!

Data Driven Small Groups Feb 14, 2023

Trust us- don't skip this one just because you don't do small groups. Whether you run small groups or not, we promise this is worth the listen! Sarah Flier is full of wisdom and school counseling knowledge. She shares so much information on school counseling that it's easy to see why she was one of the finalists for the National School Counselor of the Year!

Raised by Wolves- Building a Bridge for Parent Relationships Feb 06, 2023

Parent involvement is much different for many of our families than it was a decade ago. Dr. Debbie Grant, a former school counselor and current professor at the University of West Alabama, is a bridge builder when it comes to helping parents see the importance of being present. Listen to this podcast episode as she shares rubber meets the road strategies she used to truly change the outcome for many of her students.

Contact Dr. Grant- dgrant@uwa.edu

Our course, The First 20 Days

Our First Ever Live Podcast with YOUR Questions Jan 30, 2023

This episode was like a party! We are joined by several new and old school counseling friends from across the nation. Listen in as we answer questions from YOU, our listeners! We're talking about advocacy, National School Counseling Week, measuring student progress, heavy caseloads, and more! If you didn't join us on this episode, make sure you don't miss the next one! We'd like to give a shout out to our guest stars from all across the nation who joined us on this episode. You all MADE this episode what it is! We love you!

Bringing Nature into School Counseling Jan 23, 2023

We love when people combine what they're passionate about with their school counseling role. That's exactly what Dr. Ryan Reese has done with nature and school counseling. In this episode he shares some of his findings about the benefits of exposing students to various elements of nature. He also shares "rubber meets the road" tips that our listeners have come to expect and love from our guests. Let this episode inspire you to start bringing some of the outside inside! Let us know what you're doing to mix nature and school counseling!

Ryan Reese is an associate professor at Oregon State University- Cascades. He is also the owner and operator of EcoWellness Counseling and Consulting. www.ecowellnessbend.com

School Counseling Advocacy- The Why and How with Daniel Birdsong Jan 17, 2023

School counseling advocacy is so important. We are responsible for spreading the word about the work that we do in order to break down walls and inaccurate mindsets about the job that we do. Daniel Birdsong, the president of the Alabama School Counseling Association, shares some of the findings of his dissertation based on school counseling advocacy. This is an episode you will want to listen to multiple times. We would also recommend sharing it with your administrator and counseling supervisor.

Contact Daniel Birdsong: dbirdson@montevallo.edu

Wolfpack School Counseling Jan 08, 2023

In this episode, our new best friend, Laura Douglas, shares the old school counseling rules vs. the new school counseling rules based on the principles shared in the book, Wolfpack, by Abby Wambach. We believe this is one of the most important episodes you can listen to. Share it with a school counseling friend! Get in touch with Laura at laurad42@gmail.com.

School Counselor Goals for the New Year Jan 02, 2023

We are not fans of making resolutions for the new year. We hate the thought of setting ourselves up for failure. In this episode we talk about areas we want to focus on as school counselors using the principles outlined in the book by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, The Deepest Well. Instead of setting unrealistic goals, we want to focus on improving by 1% each day. Listen in as we share our thoughts on what we would like to accomplish this year. What are some goals or areas you want to focus on this year?

Tips for Making the Most of the Holiday Season Dec 20, 2022

These will either be the worst tips or the best tips you've ever heard for making the most of the holiday season. We know that this time of year can bring up a lot of emotions. We have them, too! In this episode we are adding to some of the Mayo Clinic's top tips for making the most of the holiday season. One thing is guaranteed: you will have a smile on your face as you listen to us share these tips!

Managing Tough Behaviors Part 2 Dec 05, 2022

Have you noticed a shift in student behaviors? You're not alone! Joy Winchester joins us in this episode to explain why our students seem different these days, and how we can manage those different behaviors we are seeing. She is always a wealth of information as she talks about strategies to use with students and teachers, the beauty of neuroplasticity, and more! This may be one of those episodes you want to share with your staff!

Solutions for Online Dangers Nov 15, 2022

One of the most difficult battles we have to face as school counselors is combatting what our students see and do online. From cyberbullying to Tick Tock challenges, it feels nearly impossible to stay on top of all of the online threats. In this episode Titania Jordan from Bark shares Rubber Meets the Road tips that parents and school personnel can do to keep our students safe online. Titania is the Chief Parenting Officer at Bark Technologies and the author of Parenting in a Tech World. Bark is the an online safety solution that lets you monitor texts & social media, manage screen time schedules, block websites and apps, and get alerts for signs of danger. Bark has a parent version and a free version for schools.

Bark-School Version

Bark- Parent Version

Good Pictures Bad Pictures Book

Childhood 2.0 Movie

Parenting Facebook Group

How to Avoid Burnout AND the Alabama School Counselor of the Year Nov 07, 2022

It seems like school counselors (and educators, in general) are experiencing burnout at an alarming rate. In this episode we are sharing three rubber meets the road tips to avoid burnout or to come out of burnout if you're finding yourself stuck. Plus we announce who the Alabama Elementary School Counselor of the Year is... Spoiler alert: It's Kim!!!

Classroom Management and SO MUCH MORE with Cassie Stephens Oct 25, 2022

After spending entirely too long at Indiana University getting her degree in both painting and art education, Cassie Stephens did her student teaching in the magical land of Ireland. While she was away, her parents, fully aware of her slacker ways, sent out 52 art teacherin’ job applications to such far away places as Alaska. One such place that called her for an interview was Nashville, Tennessee. On a whim, she loaded up her jean-jumpers, resume and chain-smoking grandma to made the trip to Nashville where she landed her first teaching gig. Fast forward nearly 15 years and Cassie had settled down with her husband and their three cats. Sadly, she’d fallen into an art teacherin’ slump rehashing stale art lessons, still wearing those sad jean jumpers and doing little creating of her own. It was then that she decided to create a blog that might help snap her out of her funk. She’ll be sharing more about that here in a moment. Zip forward once more to the present. These days, you can find Cassie teaching in Franklin, Tennessee, just south of Nashville. She’s written two books filled with sewing and clay crafts for kids and art teachers alike. You can also take a listen to her podcast where she shares all things life and art teacherin’.

Cassie's Book Art Teacherin' 101

Cassie's Youtube Channel

School Counseling Questions and Answers Oct 16, 2022

In this episode we are discussing your burning school counseling questions. We will talk about girl drama, sticky situations with administrators, tough Child Protective Services issues, and more! Plus, you know we will have a few laughs along the way. Listen and then do us a favor and rate and review this episode.

From Juvenile Delinquent to Juris Doctor- Hasan Davis Oct 10, 2022

Hasan Davis will share his experience of often interrupted transitions through education, justice, and social support systems. Throughout Hasan's journey outliers and resistors found ways to engage, encourage and empower him. With the support of these "Hope Dealers", Hasan transcended his mounting list of "failures" to become an advocate for himself and eventually a champion for others. Through story and spoken word, Hasan will share how his champions (Hope Dealers) helped him complete the "JD shuffle" going from Hasan Davis, Juvenile Delinquent to Hasan Davis, Juris Doctor. Come ready to celebrate, recharge and recommit to being the Hope Dealers that you are.

Hasan's Website

Hasan's Books

Human Trafficking in Your School: Recognizing the Signs Oct 03, 2022

It is staggering to think about human trafficking happening in our country; however, the reality is that students in big cities AND rural communities are victims of human trafficking. Christian Stanley and his wife, Rachel, work with victims of human trafficking in the US. In this episode Christian shares stories about how his team has searched for missing children. He also shares about how his organization has uncovered trafficking victims through school assemblies and trainings. Human trafficking can happen anywhere. This episode is a great reminder of the signs to watch out for and who to call if you suspect a student is being trafficked.

Christian's contact info is below. Please let him know that you heard him on the Counselor Accents podcast! Also consider donating to support the work that he and his team are doing!

christianstnl@gmail.com

251-599-8580

http://saysomethingassembly.com/

If you would like to support what we are doing monthly click the link below!

https://giving.ag.org/donate/700001-2a7915?ministryname=2a7915&page=0

Sandy Austin- School Counseling Superwoman Sep 20, 2022

Sandy Austin is a legend among school counselors. In this episode she talks about all of the programs she is involved in and how they directly benefit school counselors and our students. Her B.I.O.N.I.C. program has been an answer to the bullying crisis that has impacted so many of our students. She describes how the program has brought schools and communities closer together. She is also involved in a program with ASCA that she describes, and she has written a course for parents to help them know what to do with situations that seem beyond their control.

6+ Takeaways From the RAMP Process Sep 12, 2022

Have you ever thought about completing the RAMP application process? In this episode we are barely scratching the surface of what we learned while going through the RAMP steps. You may learn a few things that can help you, or you may learn what NOT to do! Either way, we hope this episode helps you get your head in the RAMP game!

Listening to Student Voice- The How and Why with James Layman Sep 06, 2022

"Student Voice" is a phrase we are hearing more and more. James Layman, the director of the Association of Washington Student Leaders, defines "student voice" for us and explains why it is so valuable in our schools. James gives us the 4 C's of student voice, and tells us how to listen to what students are really saying. This is an episode you will want to share with your administrators and coworkers!

A Few Techniques and a Few Questions Aug 29, 2022

Everyone loves rubber meets the road techniques, especially at the beginning of the year when each day feels like a whirlwind. We're sharing some of the trends we're already seeing and how we're meeting those needs. We also give our best shot at answering YOUR questions. Don't forget to rate our podcast!

Back to School Q&A Aug 22, 2022

It's back to school time, and we've had lots of questions come our way! In this episode we are tackling some of those questions as we get back in the swing of things. Learn about how to arrange your schedule, how soon to start small groups, how to conduct teacher trainings/parent trainings, meet the counselor lessons, and what to do with challenging behaviors right off the bat.

We hope everyone has a great start to this school year!

Have You Ever Thought About... Aug 15, 2022

In this new segment we are asking you to think about ordinary things in different ways with a school counseling twist. We are starting with Google products, and all of the ways these programs could save you time, make you successful, and position you as the leader you are!

Minute Meetings: The Basics for All Grade Levels Jul 25, 2022

Minute Meetings is one of our all-time most requested speaking topics. In this episode we are talking about the minute meeting basics. We answer the question of how we organize our student information and answers. We also talk about how to make this work for all grade levels. We are also answering the question of "Why" we recommend minute meetings and then what we do with the data we collect. Plus, of course we have some laughs along the way!

Link to our course

A Few School Counseling Hacks Jul 18, 2022

In this episode Kim and Laura share a few of their favorite school counseling hacks from their ASCA 22 session in Austin, Texas.

Helping the Wounded with Joe Hendershott Jun 27, 2022

As educators we work with "at-risk" students every day. In this episode Joe Henershott helps us shift our view of these students from "at-risk" to wounded. How should we care for wounded people and should it be a different "treatment plan" than for our at-risk students? This episode explains why these terms aren't necessarily interchangeable, and it may shed some light on why educators are leaving the field in record numbers. This is an episode to share with all educators!

School Counselor Interview Questions Jun 13, 2022

We know that not everyone is interviewing for a new school counseling job, but we do believe that this episode is full of great reminders for running an effective school counseling program. And we guarantee that approximately 99% of you will laugh several times throughout the episode. We also cover the importance of advocating for our role as school counselors especially as school districts across the nation are eliminating school counseling positions.

The First 20 Days Course

Hope for the Wounded: An Answer to the Trauma Educators Have Experienced Jun 08, 2022

So many of us are tired of hearing the phrase "self care." What started out as a great suggestion has become one more task that we feel guilty about not doing. In this episode Dardi Hendershott offers hope for those of us who feel as though we have fought a huge battle this year. We believe this episode will inspire you and equip you to help other educators as you start making plans for the upcoming school year.

Room Transformation Ideas and Details May 31, 2022

Have you ever wanted to change up your school counseling program? Maybe you want to try a different way to engage students. Maybe you are wanting to add an element of fun. We believe room transformations could be the answer! Join us as Amy Hassler, an educator from Indiana, shares some of her favorite room transformations. She also tells us why they work and how she affords them. Kim and Laura then discuss how to add the school counseling element to room transformations. This episode could be the answer to setting your next year apart from every other year!

Student Voices with The Centergy Project May 09, 2022

In this school counseling podcast episode we talk with Leigh and Linda from The Centergy Project. Find out how they have transformed communities through something they call Student Voice. Using Conversation Circles they get to the heart of their students' needs. Then, they partner with agencies who can come in and meet those needs. Leigh and Linda both believe a former student summed it up best by saying, "No one knows our school better than we do."

Leigh Colburn is a career educator, community leader, and educational consultant. She began her career in elementary school—teaching in all K–5 grades before moving into elementary administration and becoming a principal. Leigh transitioned to high school administration and proudly served as the principal of Marietta High School for ten years until founding the Graduate Marietta Student Success Center on July 1, 2015. Under her leadership, the Graduate Marietta Student Success Center received the 2016 Charter System Innovator of the Year Award for the state of Georgia.

Linda Beggs is a co-founder of The Centergy Project, a Georgia-based education consultancy working with school districts wanting to offer embedded wraparound services. She brings over 30 years of consulting experience focused on organizational development with expertise in culture, change, and team effectiveness. Working with corporate, government, education, and nonprofit organizations has prepared Linda to engage schools to create the high-trust culture essential to implementing wraparound resource centers. Along with her business partner, Leigh Colburn, Linda co-authored The Wraparound Guide, a how-to handbook for helping students overcome barriers to wellness and learning.

The Centergy Project Website

School Counseling Frequently Asked Questions Apr 18, 2022

In this episode we're tackling some of the school counseling related questions we get asked the most frequently. We feel certain that at some point in your career you have asked yourself or a colleague at least one of these questions. We're talking about vaping, what to do with students who request multiple appointments, 504's, bullying, and even a few other topics mixed in. Have a burning question? Email us at counseloraccents@counseloraccents.com. We may feature your question on our next FAQ episode!

Transforming Relational Aggression Into Conflict Resolution Apr 05, 2022

In this episode we talk to Carey Goldstein, a representative from Cultures of Dignity (which was founded by the author of Queen Bees and Wannabes), about what we have always called "relational aggression." Listen and find out why that term may need to be changed! Carey shares "Rubber Meets the Road" interventions that you can use with your students to help them resolve conflicts.

Carey can be reached at carey@culturesofdignity.com

You can check out Cultures of Dignity on their website: www.culturesofdignity.com

Testing Season Strategies for School Counselors and Students Mar 24, 2022

It is the busiest season of the year. And dare we say NOT the most wonderful time of the year? In this rubber meets the road episode we are sharing some of our tried and true strategies for staying organized during testing season as well as some of the lessons we have done with students to teach test taking tips. Both of these things will be huge helps to your administrators and teachers, AND they answer the questions we always ask ourselves: Am I saving time? Is this positioning me as a leader? Am I successful?

Test Taking Centers Lesson

Attack the Test- Test Taking Strategies

Shark Bite Game

Bee Ready Bundle

Timbi Talks about Addiction: A Resource for Students Who Have Family Members Who Struggle with Addiction Mar 14, 2022

Timbi Talks about Addiction, is the nationally-acclaimed children’s book that has helped thousands of children build resilience by connecting their body’s response to trauma with age-appropriate techniques to help calm the central nervous system. Timbi is designed to de-stigmatize the conversation about addiction.

As we say often, necessity is the mother of all invention. Unfortunately, that's the story behind this resource for children whose family members may be struggling with addiction. Listen as we talk to co-authors and sisters, Trish Luna and Janet Hellier, as they talk about what prompted them to create this resource. Find out what their goals are, what skills students learn through this resource, and how you can get involved.

www.timbitalks.com

contact@timbitalks.com

The book is available on Amazon, and the book as well as the other items in the Timbi program are available on our website. We offer a 30% discount to non-profits.

Refrigerator sheet of techniques and topics:

Timbi loves sharing ways to calm down and let go of difficult feelings.

You can:

Talk to safe adults.

Take some deep breaths to feel calmer.

Remember addiction is a disease, and not your fault.

Learn to listen when your body says,“Something’s not right.”

Play outside in nature.

Feel thankful for people, places and things in your life.

Remember to have fun and be silly sometimes.

Play with your friends

Read books. It helps your brain.

Hug your teddy, blankie, or other lovey.

Always remember that you are good, you are loved, you are strong.

Stress Busters for Students Feb 28, 2022

Is it just us or does it seem like stress among our students and families is at an all-time high? In this episode Barbara Truluck shares her Stress Busters tips for students. We also talk about equipping our students to work through and manage their stress levels. So often students can become dependent on us and the security our office brings. What's truly empowering for our students is for them to remember how to work through their stress. Barbara was the 2019 Cobb County Middle School Counselor of the Year, the 2020 Georgia School Counselor of the Year, and a 2021 ASCA School Counselor of the Year Finalist! Barbara has over 900 school counselors who use her Stress Busters program.

Barbara's Stress Busters

Techniques to Use for All Ages with Ed Gerety Feb 21, 2022

In this episode Ed Gerety shares ideas for connections for all ages. You might be surprised to hear that some of these ideas will work just as well with Kindergarten students as they will with staff members! What we loved about talking with Ed is that he told a story with each technique. These stories drive home the why behind the how. Plus you know how much we love stories!

Ed Gerety is an author, podcast host, and one of the top motivational youth speakers and leadership trainers in the world. As an experienced keynote speaker and leadership trainer of 30 years, Ed has spoken in all 50 states, plus Canada, and has reached over 3.5 million people with his powerful and inspirational message.

https://www.edgerety.com/

https://varsityleadership.com/

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/EdGeretySpeaks/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgerety/

https://www.instagram.com/edgerety/

https://twitter.com/EdGerety

An Episode of Laughter Feb 07, 2022

What would we want for National School Counseling Week? Laughter! We believe that laughter is good like medicine. So many of our fellow counselors are hurting, burned out, overworked, and every emotion in between. In this episode we wanted to bring a little levity and just share some of the funny experiences we have had throughout our years of school counseling. We want you to relax, listen, laugh, and then share this episode with a friend who could use some laughter, too.

Happy National School Counseling Week to all of our fellow school counselors!

Why Teaching Coping Skills is a Time Saver Feb 04, 2022

In this episode we discuss the increasing importance of coping skills. We talk about why they are important and how they can be used with so many of our students' struggles. This is our rubber meets the road episode of the week so we're adding in some coping skills that you can easily implement and teach your students. Plus we're talking about a whole group lesson we did recently that was a game-changer! No matter what age group you work with, we believe you'll benefit from listening to this episode!

Coping Skills Cafe Whole Group and Small Group Lesson

Coping Skills Cafe Whole Group Lesson

Coping Skills Small Group

Here's a link to the tablecloths we used for our room transformation.

Two Years of the Counselor Accents Podcast Jan 31, 2022

This episode is a great recap of some of the most memorable moments from this past year of the Counselor Accents Podcast. In this episode we are talking about SEL, our "Everyone Has a Story" episodes, our Rubber Meets the Road episodes, and the episodes where people shared fantastic resources. Plus we share a lot of laughs!

Counseling Toolbox with Brent Cosby

Ideas for Student Engagement with Tanya Kirschman

Karen Gross, Questions about mental health, trauma kits, etc.

Lauren Sisler- ESPN Reporter- Everyone Has a Story

Everyone Has a Story: Quan Huynh

Everyone Has a Story: Liz Huntley

Everyone Has a Story: Kevin Honeycutt

Ideas for SEL Day with David Adams

Interview with the Queen of School Counseling, Laura Ross

Interview with School Counselor of the Year, Olivia Carter

Easy Things You Can Do for National School Counseling Week with 2021 School Counselor of the Year, Olivia Carter Jan 24, 2022

The 2021 ASCA National School Counselor of the Year, Olivia Carter, joins us for this episode about National School Counseling Week. We believe Olivia will reach school counselors at all levels as she shares practical things you can do to advocate for your school counseling program. We spend some time talking to those counselors who are exhausted and feel overlooked. We see you! We hope you get some ideas on how to brag on your program during this very important week of advocacy!

Join our mailing list to get our free posters! We will link them here after they go out to our mailing list!

Ready to Go Clipboard Activities

Using the Unsung Heroes in Your School Jan 20, 2022

This week's Rubber Meets the Road episode is all about extending the reach of your school counseling program and using the people on your staff who see a lot of students every day. Tapping into those people on your staff and seeing how you can use them can be a game changer for you. We can't be in 12 places at one time, even though we try! Using the unsung heroes can make it seem like you are in more than one place at a time!

Make Learning Magical with Tisha Richmond Jan 17, 2022

Tisha Richmond is an author and educator who specializes in creating experiences for her students. She is the author of the book, Make Learning Magical, where she shares "rubber meets the road" tips that you can use to transform your classes from a lesson to an experience that your students will remember. There are so many parts of Tisha's story that we love, and we believe so many people will identify with where she was in her career when she started transforming her lessons. She mentions creating "Chopped" challenges for her students. She also talks about mystery boxes. Let your school counseling creativity thrive as you listen and see if you are inspired to take a lesson to the next level. And then let us know!

Purchase her book, Make Learning Magical, here.

Getting Along with Difficult Coworkers/Parents/People Jan 13, 2022

In this quick rubber meets the road episode we are talking about how to get along with difficult people. It seems like tension is exceptionally high this year. This means we may be seeing an increase in toxic coworkers, difficult parents, and just people, in general, who are hard to get along with. We hope these practical tips on how to handle these situations helps make this difficult year just a little easier!

Practical School Counseling Tools with Richard Tench and Wilson Harvey Jan 11, 2022

We heard these guys at ASCA this summer and loved the simple and practical school counseling tools they shared, AND the way they tied these tools back to the counseling theories. We guarantee these tools are easily accessible and will bring new purpose to your school counseling program. Richard Tench and Wilson Harvey both work at the high school level. Wilson is the social emotional specialist at his school (how cool is that?!), and in addition to being a counselor, Richard is the chair of the board of directors for ASCA this year! These guys are very knowledgeable and huge assets to our podcast and to school counseling, in general!

Rubber Meets the Road- Advisory Council Jan 06, 2022

In this episode we're giving you some tips on what worked for us as we conducted our advisory council meetings this year. We believe these 4 tips will help save you time, position you as a leader, and contribute to your success. Don't forget to download our guide to take your advisory council from an item on your yearly checklist to a group of your biggest cheerleaders.

Click here for the guide to transforming your advisory council.

New Year, New School Counseling Goals Jan 03, 2022

It's a new year! And since we're "in the trenches" with you, we're sharing our second semester school counseling goals with you! We think you would agree that the first semester was a whirlwind. We weren't able to accomplish several of the goals we had set, but on the bright side we have a brand new semester full of opportunities and chances to reach our new school counseling goals! In this episode we share about 9 (give or take) goals we are setting between the two of us. We believe this episode will bring the laughs and fun you expect.

College Funding Coach

Center for Educational Effectiveness- erich@effectiveness.org

Books for Book Studies- Whatever It Takes by Dr. Bryan Pearlman, Emotional Poverty by Dr. Ruby Payne, A Framework for Understanding Poverty,

Midnight Run by Kevin Honeycutt

Simplifying SEL Implementation with Rupa Mehta Dec 06, 2021

Check out the WORD Workouts library here

Find NaliniKIDS on Instagram: @nalinikids

Rupa Mehta is a teacher, entrepreneur, author, fitness expert and trailblazer in social-emotional learning. She is the founder of Nalini Method and NaliniKIDS, both based on Rupa’s wellness philosophy that true health is achieved by being both emotionally and physically fit. Rupa has appeared in many national publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, SELF, and more. She has published over 40 books as part of a robust SEL curriculum spanning K-12 grade levels. A first-generation Indian American, Rupa grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, majored in journalism and marketing at New York University, and then received her MBA from the Stern School of Business at New York University.

Rupa founded Nalini Method in 2003 to create a simple, highly accessible, preventive wellness system. Her goal is for clients of all body shapes and sizes to feel strong, confident and capable while taking her class. The Nalini Method, voted a top workout by Vogue, O The Oprah Magazine and The New York Times, fuses light weights, barre, pilates and stretching with motivating, specialized and personal direction achieving a full mind-body workout.

Seeing how valuable lessons of both body and mind were in adults is what inspired Rupa to create NaliniKIDS in 2009. NaliniKIDS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization focused on creating PK-12 programs that pair movement with reflection, so kids feel more confident, empowered and energized to learn. NaliniKIDS was founded in partnership with NYC Service within the largest school district in the US, and has expanded nationally reaching over 200,000 students. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, NaliniKIDS launched 100% free programs available to educators, counselors and parents for use in school or at home, to remove all barriers to access and give students an outlet to process today’s world.

Researchers from Teachers College at Columbia University have conducted two independent evaluations of NaliniKIDS programs, finding that students who complete NaliniKIDS programs demonstrate improvements in focus, academic achievement, and emotional well-being.

School Counseling and Art Integration Nov 29, 2021

School counselors are some of the most creative people we know! Many school counselors are interested in incorporating art in their lessons, small groups, or individual sessions, but some don't know where to start. In this episode we talk with Beth Ruff and Sheila Garth, 2 incredible school counselors who have combined their passion for school counseling and art and done amazing things. Sheila has published books on this very topic, and Beth recently completed an art integrated sensory hall using a $9,000 grant! In this episode they give practical ideas you can do with students. They also teach us the difference between art integration and art enhancement.

Find Beth on Instagram: @theartsyfartsycounselor
Twitter @artsy_counselor

www.teachermomylife.com
Sheila Garth | Edutopia
Integrating Arts in School Counseling - American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Social and Emotional Connections through Arts Integration | Education Closet

Helping When You're Hurting Nov 14, 2021

As counselors we continue to help others, even as we're experiencing fatigue, exhaustion, and second-hand trauma. In this episode we share part of our current personal situations along with things to do to keep from burning out in your role as a helper. This is not another self-care episode. We hope it's an encouragement to let you know that you're not alone. Keep going!

Check out this blog post with a downloadable guide on the same topic.

Everyone Has a Story- Jacob Chastain Nov 01, 2021

As school counselors we know that every student in trauma is just one caring adult away from success. Jacob Chastain has been that student in trauma, and now he is that caring adult. In this episode Jacob shares his story and inspires our listeners to watch for those students in trauma, but also to find outlets for students, even if it doesn't exactly fit their curriculum.

Jacob is the host of Teach Me, Teacher Podcast. He has also written a book about his story called, Teach Me, Teacher.

social emotional learning, trauma informed schools, trauma informed practices, SEL

The School Counseling Data You Need for a Successful Program Oct 25, 2021

Have you ever wondered if you are looking at the most effective pieces of school counseling data for your data driven school counseling program? In this episode we talk to one of the queens of data, Dr. Julie Hartline. She and Trish Hatch just released The Use of Data in School Counseling 2e: Hatching Results (and So Much More). This book should be your guide book for how to use data to determine what all students need, which students need more, and ways to provide proactive school counseling services.
This episode is full of tips for using data to advocate for systemic change, a few data tricks and tips, and of course laughs throughout!

Order the book here

Or you can order it here from the publisher

Check out the National School Counseling Leadership Conference by Hatching Results

Preparing a School Crisis Plan Before There's a Crisis Oct 10, 2021

This is not a fun topic to think about, but if you are ever face to face with a school crisis, you will be so glad you put together a school crisis plan before there was a crisis. Unfortunately, Kim has experienced more than her fair share of school crises. In this episode she shares what she learned from her mistakes. Use her tips to position yourself as a leader and organize a school crisis plan, and we hope you will never need it!

Apps You Need to Enhance Your Counseling Program Sep 27, 2021

This is a "Rubber Meets the Road" episode! In this episode we are talking about apps that will help you in individual sessions, small groups, and even whole group lessons! This is one of those episodes that will inspire you to take action immediately! Do we even need to tell you that you may laugh during this episode?
Go grab this book, 50+ Tech Tools for School Counselors by Angela Cleveland and Steve Sharp

Using Origami in School Counseling by Angela Cleveland

Links to apps we discuss:

https://musiclab.chromeexperiments.com/

https://thisissand.com/

https://quickdraw.withgoogle.com/

https://symbaloo.com

http://www.happydaric.com/lite-brite/

https://www.goosechase.com/

https://www.canva.com/

Why You Need a School Counseling Intern and How to Bring Value as a School Counseling Intern Sep 20, 2021

You asked for it, and here it is! One of our most asked questions is "What do I do as a school counseling intern?" We've also been asked, "What do I do as a site supervisor?" Plus, virtual learning has transformed the school counseling internship experience. Some of you have reached out to us to ask how you secure a job in a face to face setting when your internship was virtual. Well, we brought in Dr. Maureen Stewart to answer your questions. Dr. Stewart is the Internship and Fieldwork director at Northern Vermont University, not to mention one of our favorite people! In this episode she gives us practical tips that school counseling interns need in order to set themselves apart and gain the most from their internship. She also shares the lessons she's learned from her interns in the past. By the end of this episode, if you don't have an intern, you'll be getting yourself ready to host one!

School counseling, school counseling podcast, educational podcast, school counselor, internship, school counseling intern, school counseling internship, internship site, site supervisor, counselor accents, Laura Rankhorn, Kim Crumbley, Maureen Stewart

SEL Strategies for All Educators Sep 06, 2021

A school counselor's dream would be to empower educators to use SEL strategies in their own classroom. That's exactly what Dr. Greg Benner and Erich Bolz help us do in this episode. Dr. Greg Benner, a leader in the SEL field, joins Erich Bolz, VP of Research and District Engagement for the Center for Educational Effectiveness, to discuss the importance of implementing SEL strategies into everyday instruction. Dr. Benner shares several practical "kernels" that all educators can begin using immediately. Dr. Benner's strategies come from his workshops The Whole Educator Series and The Whole Child Initiative.

For more information about the programs mentioned in this episode click here.

5 Bite Size Nuggets to Help Start Your School Counseling Year Aug 29, 2021

In this episode we share 5 "Rubber meets the road" tips that we believe will get your year off to a great start! These are practical things that we do each year, and we believe our school counseling program gets stronger each year because of these tips we're sharing with you!

Check out our blog post with all the details about this episode.

Here's a link to the professional development we mentioned in this episode.

Here's a link to the brochure template.

Connecting with Families Through the Trust Your Journey Project Aug 24, 2021

Indra Owens, is well deserving of the New Jersey School Counselor of the Year title! In this episode she talks about how she connected with families and broke through the mental health stigma barrier. Indra started the Trust Your Journey project during the remote learning days of Covid in 2020. Her transparency showed other families in her urban community that it's ok to ask for help and depend on others. Her approach to connecting with families has generated a trust in school counseling in her community. Now parents are encouraging their children to talk with the school counselor!

Check out Indra's website: www.thetrustyourjourneyproject.com

Read her book! Trust Your Journey- Did we mention she wrote it with her 10 year old daughter?!

Read an article describing Indra's inspiration behind the Trust Your Journey project.

Tips for School Counselors (Especially If It's Your First Year!) Aug 16, 2021

Heather Couch, a middle school counselor in Ohio, has written a book titled The School Counselor’s Guide to Surviving the First Year: Internship through Professional Development. In this episode she shares advice that ALL school counselors will benefit from. Check this episode out as we all prepare to go back to school. And then share this with a new counselor who could use some wisdom!

Check out Heather's book here:

Amazon

Routledge Use this discount code for 20% off: FLR40

Ideas for Student Engagement with Tanya Kirschman Aug 02, 2021

Tanya Kirschman shares parts of her ASCA presentation, which was full of "rubber meets the road" ideas for lessons and ways to keep your students engaged during classroom guidance lessons. This is a perfect episode as we start to think about going back to school!

Make sure you download her amazing PDF she created for our listeners!

Everyone Has a Story: Kevin Honeycutt Jul 19, 2021

Kevin Honeycutt's passion for students is contagious! In this episode he shares parts of his personal story of growing up in poverty and experiencing trauma and how he uses it to connect with students. Share this episode with your faculty and friends as parts of this episode will make you re-examine the way we have been doing things. We promise you will be inspired and dare we say, ready to go back to school after listening?

To order his book or book him for your school click here.

The Power of Emotionally Intelligent Educators Jul 05, 2021

Listen as we speak with Megan Marcus and Kelley Munger from FuelEd about:

how educators can heal student trauma through relationships, and the need for educators to first do their own healing
how equipping educators with relationship-skills can make school counselors jobs easier and better
how the best student SEL is actually educator SEL

FuelEd is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to grow emotionally intelligent educators who build relationship-driven schools. The organization envisions a world where educator training and support is reimagined to prioritize educators' emotional intelligence, emotional health, and interpersonal skills. FuelEd was founded based on Megan Marcus' experience serving as a lead researcher for the book, The Social Neuroscience of Education by Dr. Louis Cozolino which highlights the science behind how relationships drive learning, social and emotional development, and can even heal trauma. Over the course of the last decade, we have synthesized research from developmental psychology, counseling psychology, and social neuroscience research into practical, interactive, and experiential training and counseling for thousands of educators. To bring FuelEd to your school or district contact info@fueledschool.org, or to access free resources like webinars and blogs, visit www.fueledschools.org.how educators can heal student trauma through relationships, and the need for educators to first do their own healing
how equipping educators with relationship-skills can make school counselors jobs easier and better
how the best student SEL is actually educator SEL

Managing Tough Behaviors with Conscious Discipline Jun 28, 2021

Joy Winchester is a leader in the world of Conscious Discipline. Her story-telling ability will keep you captivated as you listen to her ideas and techniques for dealing with those tough behaviors we've all encountered! Listen as she explains what conscious discipline is, how to implement it, and what changes you can expect. It is a game changer for your teachers, your parents, community, and especially your students!

Find out more about conscious discipline here.

School Counseling Side Hustle with Dr. Russ Sabella Jun 14, 2021

School counselors frequently ask what they can do for side jobs. Maybe it's to earn extra income, maybe it's to fill up summer months with extra activities, or maybe it's just to monetize a hobby. Dr. Russ Sabella co-authored a book, School Counseling Side Hustle, where he lists possible ways that school counselors and other educators can earn extra income. In this podcast he shares some of his ideas and gives his best tips on how to get started.

Visit Russ Sabella's website

Purchase School Counseling Side Hustle

Purchase Solution Focused School Counseling: The Missing Manual

Everyone Has a Story- Liz Huntley: Instilling Hope Jun 07, 2021

Liz Huntley has an amazing story of resilience through relationships with caring educators. Find out how she went from a little girl in the midst of trauma to a successful lawyer and champion of educators. Her story will definitely inspire you to seek out those students with a "story behind their eyes."

Visit Liz Huntley's website

Links to purchase Liz's book

Info about the Hope Institute

Interview with THE Carol Miller May 31, 2021

Carol Miller has done so much for the school counseling profession! She creates amazing lessons, small groups, planners, and other tools. She is also a leader in her state of New York. In this interview she shares some of her best interview and resume tips, as well as just general school counseling chat. We are even bigger fans of Carol Miller now than before we interviewed her, and we didn't even know that was possible!

Contact Carol: carol@counselingessentials.org

Join Carol's elementary Facebook group

Join Carol's middle school Facebook group

Join Carol's high school Facebook group

Practical Trauma Tools and Observations with Former Obama Policy Advisor, Karen Gross May 24, 2021

You will want to have pen and paper handy AND you'll want to listen to this episode multiple times! Karen Gross, a former university president and Obama Policy advisor (among so many other titles), shares her conclusions to questions we should be asking as we are closing schools and preparing for the upcoming school year. She challenges us with many thoughts such as, "Have we asked enough questions about mental health and the well-being of students, parents, and faculty?" This episode is full of practical rubber meets the road ideas that you can use to fill your school counseling toolbox!

Everyone Has a Story: Quan Huynh May 12, 2021

This is the first episode of our "Everyone Has a Story" segment. And oh my goodness, Quan has a story! We believe that as you listen to Quan's story you will be thinking of students you have known over the years who have had similar experiences. Quan's story will shed some light on a fact we all know: social and emotional experiences that happen outside of school still affect our students at school. Share this with anyone you know who works with students.

Click here for more info from Quan.

Using MTSS in Your School and School Counseling Program Apr 19, 2021

Whether you're an MTSS veteran or a beginner, we can guarantee you'll learn something new after listening to this podcast episode. We are joined by the authors of the book, Making MTSS Work. This episode feels more like a party! Hear the story of how these four former school counselors came together and discovered the need and a plan for implementing MTSS in schools. They believe in the power of MTSS to change educational systems and support school counseling programs. After listening to this episode, you will too!

Website: https://www.schoolcounselors4mtss.com/

FB: School Counselors for MTSS

Instagram: schcouns4mtss

Twitter: SchCouns4MTSS

Wisdom from Your 2021 School Counselor of the Year Mar 29, 2021

Olivia Carter, the ASCA 2021 School Counselor of the Year (and our new best friend), tells us ALL about how she became a school counselor, her personal life, and how she advocated for the school counseling profession, led her school, and transformed school counseling in her community. You will be SO inspired after listening to this episode!

Why Everyone Should Focus on Social Emotional Learning and Easy Ideas for #SELDay Mar 22, 2021

Alert: this is one of those episodes you'll want to share with EVERYONE! David Adams is the CEO of Urban Assembly, co-founder of SEL Day, and most importantly, the husband of a school counselor! In this episode he explains social emotional learning, why it's everyone's responsibility, and he gives great ideas for educators who want to participate in SEL Day on March 26.

To participate in SEL Day, start here!

Don't forget to use #SELDay in all of your social media posts. Tag us, too! @counseloraccents

School Counseling- A Principal's Perspective Mar 17, 2021

In this episode we're talking about school counseling with a principal. And not just ANY principal! We're talking with Karensa Wing, The National Principal of the Year! Prepare to be amazed at her knowledge of ASCA, SEL, and so many other facets of the job of a school counselor. We are certain that by the end of this episode you will feel like you're best friends with the National Principal of the Year, too!

Items Mentioned in This Podcast
Here is a link to the book, Onward, that Ms. Wing talked about in this episode. This is an affiliate link, so if you purchase we make like $0.0005. If enough of you purchase the book, we will earn a nickel!

Relational Aggression Small Group

Test Taking Strategies Lesson- Bee Theme

Test Taking Strategies Lesson- Shark Theme

Counseling Toolbox with Brent Cosby Mar 01, 2021

You're going to want to listen to this episode multiple times- several times for sheer entertainment value, and then multiple times to take notes. Brent Cosby has a gift when it comes to story-telling and practical counseling application. Brent gives us ideas on how to use everyday items and illustrations to reach students. You are going to want to contact him immediately to have him come talk to your students and your staff.

Lauren Sisler- A Personal Story of How She was Affected by Family Members' Substance Abuse Feb 22, 2021

ESPN reporter, Lauren Sisler, shares her personal story of how substance abuse by other family members affected her. This is an issue that is impacting so many of our students. Prepare to be amazed as she describes what happened, and how she is giving a purpose to her pain.

Visit Lauren's website to see all of the exciting things she has going on, or to book her to speak to your students or faculty.

Restorative Justice Circles- What Are They and How Do They Work? Feb 18, 2021

Megan Neforos, a school counselor for the Fairfax County, Virginia Public School District, is a trained Restorative Justice counselor. In this episode she answers all of our questions about Restorative Justice Circles. She explains what they are and how they work. Megan is in a school system that mirrors what many of our listeners deal with daily. Megan has stories of students from gangs, sex-trafficking, drug use, poverty, and homelessness. She shares how Restorative Justice Circles help her reach and close gaps with her students.

You can find her on social media here:
The_mrs_neforos (Instagram)
@TheMrsNeforos (Twitter)

Highlights from a Year of the Counselor Accents Podcast Feb 09, 2021

Can you believe it has been one full year of the Counselor Accents Podcast?! In this episode we share some of our favorite conversations, interviews, and moments that made us laugh. What a year it has been. Thank you all so much for listening and becoming part of our family.

How to Transform Your School Using Award Winning Culture Feb 02, 2021

This is one of those interviews that ALL educators should listen to. Hans Appel, author of Award Winning Culture, and co-host of the Award Winning Culture Podcast, shares steps that helped transform his school to become an award winning and nationally recognized middle school. Hans is definitely a school counselor at heart. He has worked in the Richland School District for the past 19 years. He's passionate about school culture, servant leadership, and kindness. That's exactly what he shares with us in this episode! Share this with your school staff!

Hans Appel is an educator, speaker, and writer deeply committed to inspiring the whole child. He’s the author of, Award Winning Culture: Building School-Wide Intentionality and Action Through Character, Excellence, and Community.Additionally, he’s the Director of Culture for theT each Better Team, Co-host of theAward Winning Culture podcast, and the Co-Creator ofAward Winning Culture.

Website: http://www.awardwinningculture.com/#/

Award Winning Culture Book Links: at: Amazon OR Barnes & Noble

Hans offer keynotes, breakout sessions, half-day, full day and 2 day professional development. Topics include: Creating an Award Winning Culture, Supporting PBIS through Servant Leadership, Infusing SEL into Project Based Learning, Amplifying Student Voice, and Student-Led Podcasting.

To bring Hans to your next school, district, or conference event explore his availability at: teachbetter.com/speakersnetwork

The Award Winning Culture Academy offers an ever-growing collection of courses to support educators’ quest to create joyful learning experiences for each student. Join Hans for a VIP pass to cutting edge theory and practice delivered in an on-demand style approach to professional development at: awardwinningculture.teachable.com

Connect on Twitter/Instagram: @HansNAppel

Facebook: Award-Winning-Culture

You Tube: Award Winning Culture

Email: awardwinningculture@gmail.com

Interview with ASCA School Counselor of the Year, Laura Ross Jan 25, 2021

It is so easy to see (or Hear) why Laura Ross was chosen as the ASCA National School Counselor of the Year. In this interview she tells us all about the School Counselor of the Year process, plus the issues that are close to her heart such as comprehensive school counseling, school counselors as leaders, anti-bias/anti-racist equity work, and how she advocates for these issues. After this interview you will feel like you have a new best friend. We sure do!

Twitter & Instagram: @LRossSchCnslr

Blog: www.theconnectingcounselor.com

Email: lauraruthross@gmail.com

National School Counseling Week, All In for All Students Jan 19, 2021

It's almost the biggest week in school counseling! In this episode we interviewed Angie Hickman, the director of research and marketing for ASCA. She gives us all the inside tips about how they came up with the theme, All In for All Students. Listen to our tips and ideas on how to have a great week, whether you're celebrating in person or virtually. Let us be the first to tell you: Happy National School Counseling Week! And just in case no one has told you lately, you are AMAZING. School counselors are heroes. We're honored to have you listen.

Make sure you download our free 11 page guide to advocating your heart out during National School Counseling Week!
Check out our post about National School Counseling Week. We give you our best tips and ideas!
Click here to listen to last year's National School Counseling Week episode. It should bring a few laughs!
Download our free posters here!

Click here to visit ASCA's website: schoolcounselor.org for info, links and downloads.
Also, be sure to tag #NSCW21 in all of your National School Counseling Week posts!

Adolescent Substance Abuse with Richard Capriola Jan 13, 2021

This podcast episode is so important for counselors of all age groups! After over two decades of experience as an addictions and mental health counselor, Richard Capriola wrote a book called, The Addicted Child: A Parent's Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse.
In this interview Mr. Capriola talks about the warning signs that parents should know about. He tells us what a parent can do if they suspect their child is using, and how parents can understand adolescent substance abuse.
Whether you work with high school students or elementary students, we are certain you will pick up some vital information through this interview.

Click here to visit Richard Capriola's website.

Interview with Matt Fleck from Inspire Success Dec 29, 2020

Meet the man behind "The Velvet Voice!" In this episode Matt Fleck from Inspire Success talks about his passion for providing resources and encouragement to school counselors. You'll love the unique way he provides a weekly 5 minute boost for school counselors! Matt talks about his website, his mission, RAMP opportunities, and so many other resources he helps school counselors with. This was such a fun episode. As always, lots of laughs are included!

Check out the Inspire Success website
Listen to the Inspire Success Podcast

Get RAMP Ready with Matt

matt@inspiresuccess.org

Using LEGO Education Products in School Counseling Dec 08, 2020

Find out how to use LEGO products to take your school counseling program to the next level! We talked with Kelly Reddin, LEGO Master Trainer, about the benefits of using LEGO bricks in various school counseling scenarios. She was talking our language as she described the benefits for 21st Century Learners using the 4 C's. Find out how LEGO products are the "building blocks" for collaboration, career lessons, and even computer science, among other things!

Here We Again: Virtual Learning 2.0 Nov 24, 2020

Many schools that opened in the traditional setting are facing the transition back to virtual learning. In this episode we share some of the lessons we've learned since March. We share some of the tips and tools that have helped us. We talk about how to make sure these tools are in place in the event of a virtual learning transition. Just a heads up: if you aren't in a laughing mood, fast forward to about 9 minutes into the episode.

Here is a blog post to go along with this episode.

Check out this interview with Teyanna Walker. We mentioned it during the podcast.

An Interview with ASCA Executive Director Jill Cook Nov 10, 2020

This may be our pinnacle! Jill Cook, executive director of the American School Counselor Association, spoke with us about her journey to become our executive director. She also shared some insight on the future of school counseling and how to advocate for your program, as well as many other fun tidbits along the way. We can't wait for you to hear how down to earth and personable our ASCA executive director is.

Making Your Career Lessons Virtually Awesome! Nov 02, 2020

Since November is National Career Development month, many school counselors use this as a chance to teach career lessons. This episode is one of our favorite soapboxes! We have presented this at ASCA in Boston, and we've done a webinar for ASCA on this topic! We've presented this multiple times in our own state and others. Can you tell we feel passionately about it?!

In this episode we will share ways for you to teach career lessons to the 21st Century learner. Virtual career fairs, learning through play, and using technology to connect with other regions of our world are just a few of the ideas we'll mention.

Plus we laugh a lot through this episode, as we do in most of our other episodes!

Check out this blog post that goes along with this episode.

Don't forget to rate and review our podcast!

Solution Focused School Counseling with Dr. Russ Sabella Oct 27, 2020

We had the huge honor of interviewing Dr. Russ Sabella, or as we like to call him, "The Contemporary Father of School Counseling." His new book, Solution Focused School Counseling: The Missing Manual is a must-have for all school counselors. In this episode he tells us what solution focused school counseling is, what it looks like in the schools, and how to implement it. We love his phrase, "The empowerment model." Listen as he explains that by using this technique you are empowering students to develop their own solutions. This is something you'll want to start using immediately!

Click here for more info on Solution Focused School Counseling: The Missing Manual.
Click here for more info on School Counselor Side Hustle
Contact info: Sabella@SchoolCounselor.com or visit http://schoolcounselor.com/

Your Autumn Toolkit Oct 19, 2020

October and November are the equivalent to the Superbowl for school counselors! These months are full of awareness dates and weeks. Consider this your all-in-one guide for navigating through Bullying Prevention Month, Red Ribbon Week, National Stress Prevention Week, Career Development Month, World Kindness Day, Halloween, and all the other events in-between! Oh, and we talk about ways to do these things virtually for those of you who are virtual! We laugh a lot in this episode, so be prepared!

Virtual Career Fairs Part 1

Virtual Career Fairs Part 2

Here is the ad we mentioned.

Rate and review here.

An Interview with Amberley Snyder: School Counselor, and Inspiration Behind the Movie, "Walk.Ride.Rodeo." Oct 12, 2020

If you've watched the movie, Walk. Ride. Rodeo, then you know how inspiring Amberley Snyder's story is. BUT did you know she also has her school counseling degree? Prepare to be motivated as we talk with Amberley Snyder, school counseling graduate, barrel racer, motivational speaker, and inspiration behind the movie, Walk.Ride.Rodeo. In this interview Amberley tells us her story, how she has given a purpose to her pain, and what's up next for her. We left this interview feeling empowered by Amberley's words, and ready to tackle this school year!

Visit Amberley's website

Contact Amberley

A Principal's Perspective: The Importance of Connecting With Students Oct 06, 2020

We have decided Pennsylvania is one of our nation's gold mines for top notch educators! Pennsylvania Distinguished Principal of the Year, Matt Moyer, joins us on this episode to share ways he and his team connect with students in unconventional and innovative ways. We are certain that after listening to this episode you'll want to gather your team and implement some of his ideas immediately! Get ready to take notes!

Check out his website here.

Order his book here!

Email Matt: MrMattMoyer@gmail.com

Signs Educators Can Look for to End Human Trafficking- Part 2 Oct 02, 2020

Join us for part 2 of our interview with Jo Lembo from Shared Hope International. In this second episode, she shares the conclusion of Brianna's story. She shares many other stories about school-aged children who have been trafficked without their parents or teachers knowing it. In this episode Jo gives us signs to watch out for that indicate our students could be being groomed or trafficked.. She also tells us who to call and what steps to take if we discover or suspect trafficking is taking place.

Tools for activists to participate in state and federal legislation

Order the School Kit to spread awareness through your school (in English and Spanish)

Film: I am Jane Doe- excellent educational resource for how kids are sold online and what has been done to try to stop it.

The Earn It Act and how advocates can help. A big push is coming soon and SHI will be posting Shared Hope social media and emailing to inform how and when we need everyone to raise their voice.

Signs Educators Can Look for to End Human Trafficking- Part 1 Sep 21, 2020

Human trafficking can happen in big cities or rural communities. Jo Lembo from Shared Hope International explains how human trafficking can happen to any of our students, not just the ones with an "at-risk" score. She also tells us the signs to look for and who to contact in order to rescue our students. Educators are on the frontlines, and may be the first to notice anything out of the ordinary. This is part 1 of a 2 part series.

Tools for activists to participate in state and federal legislation

Order the School Kit to spread awareness through your school (in English and Spanish)

Film: I am Jane Doe- excellent educational resource for how kids are sold online and what has been done to try to stop it.

The Earn It Act and how advocates can help. A big push is coming soon and SHI will be posting Shared Hope social media and emailing to inform how and when we need everyone to raise their voice.

School Counselors: Leadership and Advocating for Your Program Sep 15, 2020

Emilia Peiffer, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania School Counselor Association, talks with us about the importance of being a leader in your school as a school counselor. She covers everything from why it's important, practical ideas to show leadership, and how to establish yourself as a leader when you feel stuck and overlooked. Leadership helps you advocate for your program, which means more resources and opportunities for your students! Spoiler alert: ASCA tells us we ARE leaders! This podcast episode will help you own that title!

What Our Students Can Become: A Personal Story of Overcoming Trauma Sep 09, 2020

Raegan Schulte embodies why, as school counselors, we need to fight for EVERY student. Raegan's personal story of resiliency and how she defied odds that were stacked against her is captivating from the start. It is our hope that you will be inspired to go find the "Raegans" in your school after listening to this episode. We would challenge you to read the ASCA preamble before and after listening to our interview with Raegan. "School counselors are advocates, leaders, collaborators and consultants who create systemic change by providing equitable educational access and success by connecting their school counseling programs to the district’s mission and improvement plans. School counselors demonstrate their belief that all students have the ability to learn by advocating for an education system that provides optimal learning environments for all students."

An Interview with "The Counseling Geek" Aug 31, 2020

Jeff Ream, Better known as "The Counseling Geek," was using technology before using technology was required! In this very fun interview he shares how he uses some of his favorite technology tools. More importantly, he inspires us and encourages us during this new season of virtual counseling. After listening to this episode, it is our hope that you will be equipped with new ways to use tech tools, but that you'll also know you're not alone, and we're all in this together! Oh, and we hope you laugh with us, too!

https://www.thecounselinggeek.com/

Virtual Small Groups Aug 24, 2020

We are attempting to answer one of our most asked questions EVER! How do we run small groups in a virtual setting? In this episode we share tech tools that you can start using TODAY to connect with students. We also share a small group formula that might help guide your small group meetings. We discuss different types of small groups and ideas for activities. If you are running a virtual school counseling program, this episode is for you! We hope it helps!

Tips for Connecting with Parents Even Through Distance Learning Aug 12, 2020

School counselors are in a unique position. Our primary role is to serve the students in our schools, but raise your hand if that has ever meant taking care of parents, too! In this episode Chelsey Wilson, or Counselor Chelsey, shares tips for connecting with parents. We're talking about it all on this episode: going above and beyond to provide information to parents, how to disarm and engage an angry parent, and what we can do to encourage those parents who need a boost of confidence. These tips work whether your school is meeting in the traditional format or in a virtual learning model. Listen through the end to find out what our #counselorcallchallenge is! We hope you'll join in!

Back to School Virtual Counseling Aug 03, 2020

If you are like 99% of educators right now, you may be worrying and wondering about how to do your job virtually. Take our advice and listen to this podcast episode! Our guests, Vicki Jordan and Candace Doak, have worked as school counselors at Alabama Virtual School. In this episode they share their best tips for organization, connection, and overall how-to's and must-do's. We are pretty certain you will have a few laughs while feeling informed and ready to put some of their tips into practice.

SCUTA, a School Counselor's Dream Program! Jul 20, 2020

Steve Zaharakis has created one of the best tools for school counselors. If you haven't heard of SCUTA, your life is about to be changed! Listen as Steve shares his unique background and the incredible inspiration behind SCUTA, an all in one school counseling program that will add to your success. SCUTA collects your data, schedule, survey results, and creates instant use of time analysis results, closing the gap results, small group results, annual administrator conference documents, and so much more! When you're ready to sign up, use promo code accents for a discount that's exclusively for our listeners!
Watch the second part of this interview as Steve demonstrates everything SCUTA can do for your school counseling program!

Trauma Informed Schools with Michael McKnight Jul 07, 2020

Michael McKnight won't admit to being an expert; however, we found him to be a treasure trove of information regarding students who have experienced trauma. He is especially passionate about how to educate educators on ways to work with students. In this episode Mr. McKnight talks about the power of caring adults in students' lives. He also believes in what we call "Rubber meets the road" strategies to engage and encourage students. In fact, listen as he takes us through a "wake-up activity" that you can implement in your classroom immediately!
Here is a link to his book, Eyes are Never Quiet.
Here is a link to his book, Unwritten.
For more information about his 3 day training, click here.

Interrupting Racism Jun 22, 2020

In a very timely episode, Alicia Oglesby and Rebecca Atkins discuss their book, Interrupting Racism: Equity and Social Justice in School Counseling. Their book is specifically for school counselors, as we are the "social justice advocates" according to the ASCA Ethical Standards. In this episode we talk about culturally relevant instruction at all grade levels, implicit bias, using data to support all students, and What to say when you're scared of saying the wrong thing.

How to Bring Hope to Hopeless Situations Jun 16, 2020

In an unforgettable episode, teacher and motivational speaker, Joseph Roberts, shares his personal story of overcoming obstacles and how those events have shaped him into the educator he is today. He tells us the Importance of never giving up on our students, how to build trust with students with specific things to consider for black students and people of color. Plus what is in a why box and why you should have one!
Y'all... the intro had us laughing so hard we were crying during the replay! This (like all of our episodes) is a must-listen! Share it with your favorite educator!
Follow Joseph's Facebook
Follow Joseph on Twitter
Follow Joseph on Instagram
Joseph's Website

Tips for the Best Year Yet Jun 11, 2020

No matter how long you've been a school counselor, each year is a fresh start. It's never too soon to start preparing for the upcoming school year. This episode has tips that will help you no matter how long you've been a school counselor. Our guest, Abby Cantello, talks with us about starting a school counseling program from scratch. She has tips we can all use! Make sure you download our guide to the first 20 days of your school counseling year.

De-escalating Tough Situations May 28, 2020

Matt Eldridge travels the country speaking to educators with his organization, Certified Restraint Training, but spoiler alert: his goal in trainings is to de-escalate behavior so that restraint isn't needed. If you're like us, you will be riveted within about 10 seconds of his story-telling. Matt delivers practical, no nonsense ways of talking to students and defusing intense and potentially volatile situations. He shares lessons he's learned through his years as a teacher, administrator, and director of schools. You won't want this episode to end!
Check out his contact page here to book him at your school or school system. Visit his website here.

Dr. Lena Pearlman: The Role of Grief Counseling When We Return to School May 18, 2020

All students and educators have experienced the loss of the traditional school year. The sudden loss of what was expected has left many students and adults feeling a certain level of grief, whether they realize it or not. Dr. Lena Pearlman, mental health therapist and author of Stay Here: Your Personal Journal to Staying Present, Mindful, and Grateful Every Day, shares ways for all educators to prepare to support students in grief from a distance and when we return to school.
Buy the book, Stay Here: Your Personal Journal to Staying Present, Mindful, and Grateful Every Day here. Join the Maslow Before Bloom Facebook group here.

Tech Tools for School Counselors May 17, 2020

Get ready to take notes! Steve Sharp, co-author of 50+ Tech Tools for School Counselors, President-elect of the Pennsylvania school counselors association, and middle school counselor, shares some tech tips with us along with a lot of laughs and school counseling wisdom. This episode started as technology-focused, but quickly transformed into how to advocate for your program and career. It is easy to see why he is the president-elect for the Pennsylvania School Counseling Association!
Get his book here! Join our Facebook group here!

Simplifying Your Counseling Program by Using Google Products May 13, 2020

Ever wondered how to clone yourself in order to be more effective? Whether you are a new counselor or a veteran counselor, Level 2 Google Certified Educator Teyanna Walker has something to teach all of us on using Google to improve our efficiency. In this episode she walks us through using Google Classroom, explains why we should be using Google Classroom in school counseling, and tells us what a Google Cocktail is. Whaaatt?? This episode will take your counseling program to the next level! We only wish we'd listened sooner!
Check out Teyanna's Youtube page here!

Counseling Through Trauma: A Comparison to the Columbine Tragedy May 01, 2020

Sandy Austin was instrumental in providing counseling services during the Columbine tragedy and the difficult years that followed. In this episode she inspires listeners to give a purpose to the pain and shares how she did that through her program, B.I.O.N.I.C., which stands for Believe It Or Not I Care.
You can watch this episode here!
Check out her website here and find out how you can start a B.I.O.N.I.C. team at your school! If you want more of Sandy, and believe us... You're going to want more! Check out her Pennsylvania School Counselor Association interview with Steve Sharp. She shares more about B.I.O.N.I.C. and all of the wonderful things her students do through that program.

Dr. Ruby K. Payne Discusses the Educational Impact of Poverty Apr 27, 2020

Dr. Ruby Payne prepares us for the changing face of poverty in the educational system. She discusses who's vulnerable, who will bounce back, and how to care for those in sudden need. Share this episode with your administrator and your staff. It is a must listen to for all educators!

Click here to visit Dr. Payne's Website full of resources for all educators. You can also join a weekly webinar with her on Wednesdays. Sign up on her website.

Check out her On-Demand professional development here. This is a great opportunity to participate in training and then replicate that training to your faculty and staff!

How to Plan a Virtual Career Fair Part 2 Apr 23, 2020

Listen and be inspired as Bryan Pecoraro gives us step by step instructions on setting up a virtual career fair using Google Meets. Bryan was doing virtual career fairs before virtual career fairs were cool! He candidly shares things he did the first time that he DIDN'T do the next time! We hope you'll feel empowered after this episode to launch your virtual career fair OR make your existing virtual career fair even better!

Check out Bryan's presentation on virtual career fairs here!

Easy Tips for Planning a Virtual Career Fair Part 1 Apr 21, 2020

Author and School Counselor, Lisa King, gives practical ways to start a virtual career fair at your school. She shares tips from her school including dress up days, Interactive career-related games, and ideas to involve parents, students, and teachers! Check out Lisa's webpage here. Make sure to look at her books including Be Your Own Hero, a very timely children's book that talks about the character of people rather than what they do. Lisa also has great resources on Growth Mindset. Integrating Growth Mindset in Schools can be your guide to implementing growth mindset at your school. Mindset Matters shows counselors how to and why they should incorporate growth mindset in the school counseling program.

Making an Effort for Self Care Apr 17, 2020

We realize we did an episode on self care recently, BUT that was before uncertainty hit our lives from out of nowhere. Now with the pressure of balancing work life, homeschooling, parenting, and our own anxiety, making an EFFORT for self care is imperative. Listen as we use the letters in the word "Effort" to talk about MORE ways you can take care of yourself during these uncertain times.
Join our Facebook group that we talk about during this episode!
A list of some of our favorite books we wrote about last year. Use our list and find your next read!

Understanding the Impact of Maslow Before Bloom with Dr. Bryan Pearlman Apr 14, 2020

Dr. Bryan Pearlman, author of the book, Whatever It Takes for All Students to Succeed in School and Life, shares wisdom on what preparations we can make now to support faculty and students with increasing mental health concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Pearlman is a former administrator (and self-admitted teacher at heart), therapist, and co-founder of the non-profit Distinguished School of Mental Health and Wellness program. He runs a Facebook group called Maslow Before Bloom where like-minded people can discuss the connections between mental health, trauma, and education.

Resources for Parents During Covid-19 Apr 11, 2020

As a parent herself, School counselor Alisha Kowsky, understood how parents have been feeling in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. She shares with us what she implemented and the resources she has been sharing with parents and teachers to offer support. We also discuss the website, https://wideopenschool.org/ and the incredible learning paths available to students of all ages.
Alisha's parent group: Happy Parents, Happy Kids.

Tips for Educators With Anxiety Apr 08, 2020

This season of change can be overwhelming. In a very timely episode, Lauren Jewett, special education teacher and BLTN Teachers Fellow, shares practical tips we can use to manage anxiety. Share this episode with your staff to help calm their stress and let them realize we are all navigating this together.
Here is a link to the article Lauren wrote for Teachers with Anxiety.

No Internet? No Problem! Ensuring Equitable Access During Distance Learning Apr 03, 2020

School counselor, Rachel Berogan, shares multiple distance learning resources she has created for students in her rural community. These social emotional tools are activities students can do independently or with family members. The activities don't require internet capabilities which ensures equitable access for all students.

Mental Health Resources During Covid-19 Mar 31, 2020

Our special guest, Samantha Kobs, a school counselor and an LPC in Oklahoma, shares valuable mental health insight and practical resources that we can pass along to our students, staff, and even parents in our communities. Add Samantha to our list of school counseling heroes!
Self care tips for virtual learning
Optional Upper School Schedule
Counselor Resources for Families and Students
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Tips for Helping Students Deal with Social Distancing

Online Tools for Virtual Counseling Mar 27, 2020

Special guest Matt Berry, Chairperson of the Board of Directors for Missouri School Counseling Association, shares incredible resources in this episode. He talks about specific online programs, how he suggests using them, and gives wonderful wisdom about how to handle the challenges this new season brings. Check out this jaw-dropping list that Matt compiled full of resources we can explore.

Where Do I Start? Online School Counseling During the Coronavirus Mar 24, 2020

Special Guest Meredith Newlin, author of the book Captured Fireflies and veteran educator gives us step by step instructions on where to start with online school counseling during the Coronavirus school closures. We thoroughly enjoyed this interview and made a friend for life! We know you'll instantly love Meredith just like we did!
Here is the link to the free lesson we referenced at the end of the podcast.

School Closed: Now What? Mar 18, 2020

School is closed. What do we do now? Join us as we talk about how to navigate these uncharted waters as school counselors with no students over the next few weeks. We recorded this through video conferencing so it looks and sounds different from other episodes.

Increasing School Attendance Mar 09, 2020

Increasing school attendance may be the biggest goal school counselors and school administrators set. Find out how we met and exceeded our attendance goals using fun and practical techniques you can implement immediately! We'll talk about what one administrator said was the "greatest thing that made a difference" with attendance numbers. Plus, as always, we laugh a lot.

Using Games in School Counseling Mar 02, 2020

In one of our most fun episodes ever we try to explain why we use games in school counseling, how we use them, and which ones are our favorites! This episode was recorded in September, but it's still timely and needed! We're just tell you that so you won't go out of your way to wish Kim a happy birthday since we celebrate it during this episode!

Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors Feb 25, 2020

One of the most asked questions is "What are classroom management strategies for school counselors?" Listen in as we try to answer that by providing several classroom management strategies we use.

School Climate and Culture Feb 18, 2020

How can school counselors impact school climate and culture? We share 5 tips that helped Kim's school soar to international fame

Self Care for Educators Feb 12, 2020

Self care for educators has become increasingly important as the needs of students and the demands on teachers have changed. In this podcast we share 10 self care tips for school counselors or educators, in general. We also share a lot of laughs, which is another form of self care!

What a Principal Wants in a School Counselor Jan 29, 2020

The relationship between school counselors and administrators is vital in running a successful school counseling program. In this interview with Kim's principal we discuss what administrators wish their counselors knew and we let him in on what school counselors wish their principal knew. Maybe this interview could help jumpstart a conversation between you and your administrator! Let us know!

Ideas for National School Counseling Week Jan 29, 2020

How do you celebrate National School Counseling Week? In this episode we will give practical and cost effective ways to celebrate National School Counseling Week. We also explain the difference between "National School Counselor's Week" and "National School Counseling Week." We also discuss the controversial topic of whether school counselors should expect gifts during this celebration week. We appreciate the work you are doing! Follow this link to find everything we talked about in today's episode. Free posters, ideas, and links to items that will enhance your week.

Counselor Accents Introduction Jan 29, 2020

This podcast is going to be a fun place for us to discuss all things related to school counseling. In this first episode we take a little time to explain what you can expect in future episodes. Plus we will let you in on a few tidbits about us. By the end of this episode you will know which of us can perfectly mimic the sound of an aquatic mammal, and which of us is a magnet for a particular natural disaster. Did we mention that we're going to have fun?

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