School Counselor

School-Wide Services Offered
How to connect with the school counselor
FAQ

Leschi School Counselor

School-Wide Services Offered

Counseling
- Individual: 1-on-1 short term counseling service. Using strengths-based solutions-focused counseling.
- Group: For students needing extra support with peers, belongingness, friendships, skill-building, etc.
  - Group counseling
  - Friendship groups
  - Lunch bunch
  - Skill-building group
  - Affinity Groups: Paw Pride & Student of Color groups
- Check-in / Breaks: 1-on-1 as needed support. This can be for problem-solving, de-escalation, taking a break, or using our calming corner. Students may use a Let’s Talk slip to arrange a meeting with the school counselor. Staff can also send students to the counseling office with a counselor pass. The school counselors are also available to provide a safe space and offer relief for immediate concerns.
Guidance Classroom Lessons: These are interactive sessions to support students in developing essential life skills and fostering positive behaviors. These lessons cover a range of topics such as empathy, conflict resolution, character education, study skills, social skills, career exploration, and more. These lessons are designed to promote a supportive school community where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Second Step Support: Bullying Prevention Unit, Child Protection Unit, Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Optional SEL lessons: Identifying feelings, Empathy, Golden Rule, etc.
Consultation: Involves collaborative efforts to support student success. We work closely with staff, families, and the community to address academic, behavioral, and social-emotional concerns affecting students. Through consultation, we provide guidance on effective interventions, behavior management strategies, and academic support plans tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. We strive to create a supportive school environment where every student can reach their full potential and be their best, authentic selves.

Other Roles:

504 Building Coordinator
SEL Liaison

How to connect with the school counselor

To schedule a call, meeting, or simply just want to connect, please email:

Ella Ares: erares@seattleschools.org

You may also fill out this form if you want to refer your child/student to the school counselor:

Leschi Elementary School Counseling Referral Form

FAQ

Why do students see the school counselor?

Students may see the school counselor for various reasons including academic struggles, social/friendship issues, emotional concerns, family problems, career exploration, and personal development. The counselor is here to provide support through the services offered (see above) and help students navigate challenges to succeed in school and beyond.

How does my child receive the counseling programming?

All students are welcome to request a check-in anytime they need support or help building social and emotional skills. These check-ins are not the same as individual counseling sessions. Instead, they provide quick support—such as practicing coping strategies, working through conflict resolution, or validating big feelings—to help students feel comfortable and successful at school. Families and teachers may also request a check-in on a student’s behalf. If any ongoing concerns arise, I will reach out directly.
Classroom counseling lessons are provided to all classes. Please contact us if you are concerned about your student’s participation.
Group counseling is available for students who may benefit from additional support and a sense of community. Students can be referred by themselves, staff, or family. Before a student participates in group counseling, I will contact you and obtain a signed informed consent form.
Lunch Bunch is a Tier 1 support that is open to all students. It is not the same as group counseling or small counseling groups. Instead, Lunch Bunch is designed to build connections, practice social skills, and encourage a sense of community in a fun, informal setting during lunchtime. Students will be invited on a rotation basis throughout the school year so that everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Individual counseling is a strengths-based, solution-focused support tailored to the student’s and family’s goals. It is typically used for sudden changes in behavior, attendance, social skills, personal challenges, or family circumstances. Students can be referred by themselves, staff, or family. I will contact you for a signed consent form before starting, and can provide guidance or a referral for longer-term counseling if needed.

Are counseling sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of counseling. Information shared with the counselor is generally kept private, except in cases of safety concerns or legal requirements. If a student is at risk of harming themselves or others, or if there is danger from someone else, confidentiality may be broken. Additionally, relevant information may be shared with staff or outside providers if the student or their family gives permission.

What type of issues can I discuss with the school counselor?

You may discuss a wide range of issues to the school counselor concerning the student’s emotional well-being and mental health. This includes academic challenges, social difficulties, family concerns, emotional struggles, college and career planning, and more. The counselor is here to help with any issue impacting your well-being and success.

What resources are available through the school counseling office?

The school counselor has a bunch of resources. Here are some that I typically share to families:

SPS Resources about Mental Health:

Resources not affiliated with SPS:

Mental Health:

Anxiety:

Books:

If what you are looking for is not on this list, please reach out to us through email.

What should I do in a crisis situation or emergency?

In case of an emergency or crisis situation, please contact emergency services (911) or utilize emergency protocols established by the school. For urgent but non-emergency counseling needs, please contact the counselor directly during office hours.

Crisis Supports:

Crisis Connections (24hr support)
Families can access the Children’s Crisis Outreach Response System through Crisis Connections
866-427-4747

Crisis Text Line (24hr support)
Texting support for times of crisis. Provides resources on topics like isolation, anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, bullying, relationships, suicide, and self-harm.
Text HOME to 741-741
Facebook chat: Go through Crisis Text Line and message HOME (24Hr Support)

Teen Link (6-10 p.m. Support)
Teen volunteers are trained to listen to your concerns and talk with you about whatever’s on your mind – bullying, drug and alcohol concerns, relationships, stress, depression or any other issues you’re facing. No issue is too big or too small! Calls and chats are confidential.
1-866-teenlink (833-6546)
Call, Text, and chat available

Suicide Prevention Lifeline (24 hour support)
The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
1-800-273-8255

SPS Suicide Prevention and Intervention Webpage