Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. How is a child referred to see the Guidance Counselor?
2. Will I be informed about what my child discusses with the counselor?
3. How can I contact the counselors?

How is a child referred to see the Guidance Counselor?

Referrals for counseling come from parents, teachers, and the students 
themselves.  Parents can call one of the counselors, send a note in with 
their child, e-mail one of the counselors, or request a meeting through the 
classroom teacher.

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Will I be informed about what my child discusses with the counselor?

Students are informed that when they enter the counselor's office, what they 
say is confidential.  The exceptions to this are if they express that they 
are going to hurt themselves or someone else or if they are being hurt by 
someone else.  If the counselor feels that the parent should be made aware of 
something mentioned during a counseling session, the counselor informs the 
student that the information will be shared with the parent, then notifies 
the parent.
In general, if a student visits with one of the guidance counselors about an
isolated incident that is very common, a phone call home is not made.  If,
however, there seems to be a recurring issue or if the issue is of concern, a
phone call is made to the parents to inform them of what is going on.

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How can I contact the counselors?

You can contact the counselors by phone at 635-8875 or by sending a note in 
with your child.  You can also e-mail the counselors at either 
llaroche@pelhamsd.org or tflaherty@pelhamsd.org.

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