We ask for your patience as the School transitions to a new website on Friday, August 4. We anticipate the new site will be live and fully functioning by Sunday, August 6. Thank you!

School Counseling
School Counseling

The John Carroll School Counseling Department

The John Carroll School Counseling Department has the unique position to observe and support the whole person. Counselors provide a mental health perspective and understand and respond to the challenges presented by today’s diverse student population. Counselors align and work with the school’s mission to support the success of all students as they prepare for the ever-changing world of the 21st century.

True to The John Carroll School mission statement, counselors are privileged to help with the development of the spiritual, intellectual, physical and social person. Counselors assist students in developing a respect for self and sensitivity to others as they grow through their high school experience and graduate towards adulthood. Counselors continue their relationship with their students throughout all four years, assisting with all aspects of the high school experience.

Starting High School: A guide for parents and students 

Transition to High School

Counselors work with small groups and individual students during freshman year to assist with the transition to high school. Counselors discuss academic issues such as: course placement, study skills, organizational skills, grades, preparation for exams, graduation requirements, and planning for the future. Personal issues such as social adjustments, peer relationships, and school involvement are also addressed.

Academic Counseling

Counselors assist students with academic issues including classroom performance, academic difficulty, course selection, study skills, effective communication with teachers, and perspectives on academic credentials. Using a team approach with teachers, support staff and parents, Counselors can help plan steps to improvement and success. Students experiencing learning struggles and difficulties may be interested in investigating the St. Joseph Program. Students should see their Counselor for more information.

Personal Counseling

Often of more immediate importance is the need for personal counseling. Counselors are available to students in many areas of need, with the fullest confidentiality. In particular, students are encouraged to speak one-on-one with their Counselor about concerns such as personal, peer and family relationships, stress, depression, anxiety, concentration difficulties, substance use and abuse, eating issues, self-esteem, pregnancy and suicidal thoughts and feelings. As the need arises, students and families are referred to professional resources outside of The John Carroll School.

Conflict Resolution

Counselors assist in resolving conflicts in regard to student disagreements and low-level disciplinary problems.  Students will meet in a private, safe and confidential setting until the identified issue is resolved. Referrals to the Conflict Resolution Program will be submitted by administration.

Bullying, Harassment, Intimidation Policy

Bullying, harassment, or intimidation of any student on school property or at school-sponsored functions or by the use of electronic technology is prohibited in all Archdiocese of Baltimore Schools. Such behaviors are contrary to school life in a Christ-centered community, which respects the dignity and uniqueness of all God’s children. To foster a school environment where all students are educated in a safe and caring atmosphere, all Archdiocesan schools will follow established procedures for prevention and intervention. Students should see a Counselor immediately or complete an Archdiocese of Baltimore Reporting Form.

School Life

Counselors also participate in many activities throughout the school year, thus interacting and experiencing students in various situations. Senior Unity Day, Homecoming, Spirit Week, Team Building, Class Retreats, Pep Rallies, Athletic Events, Fine Arts and Music Program Events, Theatre Productions, Junior Ring Dance, Senior Prom, Senior Project, Graduation, among others. These activities allow students and Counselors to establish closer bonds.

Mindfulness Resources

Educational:

Why Mindfulness Is a Superpower
Goal Setting for Distance Learning
3x3 Meditation Method
The Power of Mindfulness
Music Therapy for Mindfulness Exercise

Practice:

5-Minute Meditation You Can Do Anywhere
4-7-8 Calm Breathing Guide
15 Minute Guided Meditation to Find Peace in Uncertain Times
Mindfulness Meditation - Guided 10 Minutes
Visual Mindfulness Exercise

Communications with Counselors