Welcome to the Barton Hills Elementary Counseling Blog. My name is Sheila Wessels, and I am the counselor for this wonderful BHE community. I am very excited to work with you and your family this year. If at any time, you need to speak to me, please email or call. I am here for you!
Some information about myself, I have lived in Austin most of my life. My husband and our two daughters live in the North Austin area. We also have a very "talkative" dog named Gerdie. Our family loves playing outside, having dance parties, cooking, and watching football together. Prior to working with Austin ISD, I taught 3rd grade in Leander. After receiving my Masters in Education at Texas State, I began as a school counselor at Menchaca Elementary in south AISD and then moved to Barton Hills 4 years ago.
What is a school counselor you might ask?
A school counselor works with all students to develop their academic, career, personal, and social abilities. I meet these needs through classroom based counseling or guidance classes, small group counseling, and/or individual counseling.
Classroom Based Counseling
I meet with every class every other week. That is about 200 students a week! I consult with teachers and grade levels about their specific need they would like for me to focus on for each guidance lesson or unit. The most common areas I focus on are conflict and resolution, managing emotions, stress, friendship, career readiness, bullying, and supporting our Social Emotional Learning Curriculum (SEL).
Individual Counseling
Students can request to see me by filling out a note and placing the note in my mailbox outside my office. I visit with students during recess or lunch time depending on the amount of time a student requires. I typically will not contact a parent unless I see the student 2-3 times. If a student requires more visits, I will be happy to suggest referrals to an outside counselor. Parents and teachers can also request for their child/student to visit with me.
Small Group Counseling
I run many groups that meet about a variety of topics throughout the year such as New to BHE, Friendship, Divorce, and Leadership. If I find that there are several students struggling with a common problem, I can create a group to work with them together. I find that it helps to students to know they are not alone! Parents and teachers can also suggest groups they may find beneficial. If your child is part of a group, I will send a letter home explaining the group as well as asking for your permission.
I am also here for parents and teachers on a consulting basis. Please contact me with any concerns. I want to make sure your child has a wonderful experience at Barton Hills Elementary!
Please check here frequently to see what's happening in the counseling world at BHE!
