A Guidance Counselor’s Perspective
An Interview with Kathy Sapp

Kathy Sapp has worked as a guidance counselor at a local Christian school for the past 15 years, 10 of those with high school students.  .

How would you describe the issues that are typical for the different school populations?
K-5:             
It is in these early grades that teachers typically identify learning and behavior problems as children learn to read and begin academics.  Other issues that may arise are new student adjustment or family traumas such as divorce or a death.
Middle School, Grades 6-8:
At this point, students begin changing classes so organizational and study skills are the new challenges.  With approaching adolescence, there are also both social and emotional life adjustments.
High School, Grades 9-12:
Academics move back to the top of the list because of the concern over grades, college applications and the need for great focus and organization.  Even at this late stage, some learning disabilities continue to be discovered.  For a guidance counselor, this is the time to be a life coach.

From your experience, what do you think is the greatest concern to parents?
Definitely grades!  They have the long-range view of getting into college so are concerned about grades, extra curricular activities, in short, wanting their children to do it all.  This winds up creating stress, not just for the student, but for the whole family.

What do you think is the greatest concern for the student?
Competitiveness!  Everyone is watching everyone else to measure their success and if they’re doing enough. Sadly, sometimes students have been given unrealistic expectations, even from a very early age, as to what they can accomplish, what college they should attend, etc. 

How do you see Christian counseling as a complement to what you do as a guidance counselor?
Even though I am a trained counselor, I don’t see my role as doing therapy in the school setting.  I see a guidance counselor as a contact person for parents, a liaison between teachers and parents and as a safety net for students.  It is my job to notice things and to be in relationship with the students.  They know I am available if they need to talk.  If I were to provide therapy, it would change the relationship possibly making them uncomfortable seeing me on a daily basis.  Consequently, I am quick to refer. 

I believe there is no such thing as valueless counseling so I refer to Christian counselors.  God has made each child unique and equipped each one with their own calling.  I try to encourage parents to take hold of that vision as they journey with their children through school to whatever path God has given them a passion to follow.