1. How can I get in contact with you?
You can contact me by phone at (512) 841-1782, by email at jsepp@austinisd.org, or in person after morning announcements (you can find me in the office).
2. When should you seek counseling?
There are times when we all need a little help to solve problems that overwhelm us or cause emotional stress. Counselors provide caring, expert assistance during these times. Counselors help you identify stressors in your life and assist you in finding the best ways to cope by finding constructive ways to deal with a situation beyond your control.
3. My family is going through a transition and I'm concerned about my child.
If your family is experiencing a transition (such as moving, changing schools, family additions, divorce), you may see some changes in the behavior of your child. This is absolutely normal! Children adjust to transitions very differently depending on the child and the situation, so don't be surprised if it does take a while. Providing stability and routine in your child's life is important, in addition to a nurturing and supportive environment can help. I'm happy to consult with you and discuss the possibility of my help with counseling services if needed, or resources that can help.
4. How can I talk to my child about bullying?
If your child has been bullied at school, speak to your child's classroom teacher, principal, and counselor so they can help. You can offer suggestions such as ignoring the bully, walking away, telling them to stop, using an "I" message, and going to a trusted adult (which is not tattling; this is requesting assistance with a serious problem).
5. Can a school counselor provide individual counseling?
I do see students on a 1-1 basis when self-referred, or when referred by a teacher/parent. Due to time constraints, I can only see students for a few sessions. If further help is needed I can recommend local counselors in the Austin area to continue services.
6. How long does counseling take?
Counseling is terminated when the problem that you pursued counseling for becomes resolved or more manageable. In schools, students usually see a counselor for 6-12 sessions then are referred to community or private agencies to continue services.
7. Are parents notified when a student visits the counselor?
Parent notification depends on the purpose of the student’s visit. Parents are notified and must give permission for students to participate in support groups. For behavioral support incentives and quick care meetings, parents are typically not alerted. However, issues can arise during these meetings that may merit parental notification.
8. Is information shared with the counselor also shared with teachers?
Personal information shared with the counselor is not shared with the classroom teacher unless permission to share the information is granted by the student or the parent. Academic information applicable to classroom performance will be shared with the professional educator.
9. How is confidentiality handled?
All student information is kept in confidence in accordance to educational code. All counseling records are considered school records and are subject to legal requirements. Disclosures of abuse and/or imminent danger to self or others are reported to the appropriate agency in accordance with the law. Situations jeopardizing student safety including incidents of abuse, imminent danger of self or others, bullying and sexual harassment are reported to the campus administrator in accordance with school policy. Students visiting the counselor are given informed consent upon each visit in developmentally appropriate language: