Experiences With Elementary School Counseling Advocacy

Elementary school counselors are instrumental in student success and well-being; unfortunately, school counselors at the elementary level also have higher caseloads and more tenuous job opportunities. Thus, there exists a need to advocate for elementary school counseling. Previous research has examined school counseling advocacy across K–12 settings and included advocacy as one aspect of larger studies. Given this gap in the literature, we conducted a phenomenological investigation to examine the lived experiences of professionals who reported successfully advocating for elementary school counseling positions and roles. We discuss findings and implications, including applying results to the school counseling profession, in an effort to bolster elementary school counseling and better school counseling services to students.

“We’re Powerful Too, You Know?” A Narrative Inquiry Into Elementary School Counselors’ Experiences of the RAMP Process

This study utilized a qualitative narrative inquiry to explore the experiences of eight elementary school counselors who successfully applied for and received Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation for their schools. Participants provided insight into motivations, resources, and other considerations that contributed to their success in earning RAMP distinction. The overarching theme, Don’t be afraid to engage in RAMP process, serves to enlighten and guide current and future school counselors in pursuing RAMP designation. This article discusses findings, implications, and future directions for research related to this study.

Elementary School Counselor Experiences Teaching Lessons on a Related Arts Schedule

When and how often school counselors teach lessons varies; sometimes they go into classrooms in collaboration with teacher requests, and other times they have a set schedule rotation in conjunction with nonacademic classes like art, music, or physical education—often referred to as a related arts rotation. In this phenomenological study, we interviewed 10 elementary school counselors regarding their experiences teaching classroom lessons as part of the related arts rotation. Three themes emerged: (a) systemic factors, (b) frustrations, and (c) visibility. We discuss implications for school counselor advocacy.

Elementary School Counselors Supporting Students Experiencing Anticipatory Grief

The experience of grief after a death-related loss is endured by many, including elementary-aged, students. However, anticipatory grief, or the grieving process that begins when someone knows that a loved one is dying, can create additional challenges. This article explores how elementary-aged students grieve while anticipating a loved one’s death and how school counselors can use therapeutic approaches to address student’s needs and support them as they prepare for their loss.