Ms. Shepherd's
Counselor's Corner

 Welcome to “The Counselor Corner”

What is a school counselor?

A school counselor is a type of helper in the school.  The primary focus of a school counselor at the elementary level is prevention.  My main objective is to help all students learn basic life skills and help your child have a successful school year.  Often times, non-academic issues can get in the way of a student’s learning (especially during these early developmental years).  Addressing these issues can help your child to succeed in school! 

Some of the things counselors address with students, parents, and staff are:

Feelings, self esteem, behavior, death/loss, safety, friendship, homework, bullying, conflicts, listening and following directions, transitions, healthy behaviors, honesty, accepting others, separation/divorce, and much more!

School Counseling is a short term resource.  If there are greater issues that need extensive attention, I will be glad to assist you in finding an outside counselor to work with your child.  I in turn can maintain contact with your student’s counselor or therapist to ensure that therapeutic goals are supported here in school. 

Who is the counselor at MacGregor?

My name is Shanna Shepherd.  I am at MacGregor Elementary Mondays, Tuesdays and Friday afternoons.  When I’m not here at MacGregor, I work with students over at Linsday Elementary.  I am originally from Detroit, MI and now reside in Bay City.  I have a BA from Wayne State University’s College of Science in Psychology.  I also have an MA from Wayne State University’s College of Education in Counseling.  I hold an SCL (School Counselor License) from the state of Michigan and qualified to work with the K-12 population.  I practice an eclectic style of counseling which is predominately led by the Person Centered Theory.  This means that first and foremost, I am here for your child, to actively listen to them, and assist them in learning to be successful.

How does a student meet with a school counselor?

• Parents/Guardians may request their child see the counselor (call me or send a note to school with your child)

• A staff member may refer a student to the counselor

• The counselor may invite your child to talk

• Your child may request to talk with the counselor

If a student meets with the school counselor, it does not mean that the student is in trouble!!

It’s very important that students understand that the Counseling Office is a safe, and non threatening place.

What types of services are provided?

Individual Counseling – I talk with students on a short-term, confidential basis on a variety of topics.  My primary concern is the safety and well-being of the child.  If I feel a child is in danger, another professional adult must be notified. 

Response Services – I am here to assist students with coping when there is a crisis.  I also respond to immediate issues that have occurred during school hours that prevent the student(s) from actively participating in class.

Guidance Lessons – If it has been brought to my attention that there is an issue that is affecting an entire class (friendship issues, bullying, etc) I may offer lessons that are developmentally appropriate and preventative in nature.

Systems Support – A counselor is available for consultation with parents/guardians, teachers/staff, and other professionals as needed.  This intervention can take place in individual or group conferences, or through staff development.  In addition, referrals are made to outside agencies when needed.

Here are some reasons a student may want to see the counselor:

•  “I’m getting picked on at the bus stop and I don’t know what to do about it.”

•  “My best friend isn’t talking to me and it makes me feel sad.”

•  “I want to show you what I just made in art.  I’m very proud of it.”

•  “I’m new to this school and I’m very scared.”

•  “My dog died over the weekend and I am sad.”

•  “I just want to talk to someone who will not laugh at me.”

•  “My mom and dad just told me they are getting divorced.”

•  “Tim, Sam, and I had a problem at recess. Can you help us work it out?”

Here are some reasons a parent might want to talk to the counselor:

•  “My husband I are getting divorced and we think our kids could benefit from talking about it with other kids. Is group counseling available?”

•  “Sarah just doesn’t want to go to school in the mornings.”

•  “I’m concerned because Allen tells me he doesn’t have any friends.”

•  “We recently had a death in the family, and I’m not sure my child is handling it well.”

•  “Kevin is having difficulty paying attention in the classroom.”

•  “It’s almost impossible to get Jason to do his homework at night.”

“I’m looking for some resources (books, websites, videos) on how to deal with a certain issue regarding my child”

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!