Elementary School Counseling in the New Millennium

Counselors must consider social change as they design programs to maximize student potential, personal growth, self-determination, and self-responsibility. There is also a need for counselors to develop, implement, and evaluate counseling programs for culturally diverse students. The book is intended as a textbook for courses in elementary school guidance and counseling programs, focusing mainly on issues pertaining to special needs students. Section 1, "Proactive Counseling in the 21st Century," introduces challenges for elementary school counselors; presents a proactive model of counseling; and provides ethical guidelines. Section 2, "Developmental Needs of Elementary School Students," considers the interrelationship of multiple factors in a child's development; looks at the role of play therapy; and discusses strategies to foster prosocial behaviors. Section 3, "Crisis/Intervention," addresses the topics of crisis and intervention strategies, including systemic intervention; holistic solution-focused strategies; the specifics of school counseling; and the issues relating to children of alcoholics. Section 4, "Special Needs/Concerns," addresses demands for program and services for special needs, multiracial, and immigrant children. Section 5, "Technology and Other Resources for the Elementary School Counselor," introduces counselors to technological competence, and provides recommendations for a collection of materials for their own professional library. (Contains over 300 references.) (JDM)