School Psych

Building Trust with Students

• Creating a Comfortable Environment

  • Foster a space that encourages open communication and expression.

  • Use icebreakers and casual conversations to break the initial barriers.

• Being Approachable

  • Avoid authoritative language or gestures; focus on a friendly demeanor.

  • Share personal stories and experiences to create a relatable persona for the students.

Managing a Large Student Body

• Strategies for Engagement

  • Use technology and social media to connect with students outside of school.

  • Host smaller group activities or clubs that allow for one-on-one interaction.

• Allocating Time for One-on-One Interactions

  • Schedule regular office hours where students can drop in to talk.

  • Make it a goal to speak with a certain number of students each week to actually learn their names and stories.

Confidentiality and Student Initiatives

• Student Initiated Conversations

  • Students in Montgomery County can approach counselors or teachers for help.

  • Ensure that students know they can talk without fear of automatic escalation or parental involvement.

• Parent Involvement

  • Clarify that students can initiate discussions confidentially; parents typically do not find out unless the situation warrants it based on school policies or significant concerns.