Frequently Asked Questions About School Counseling

What is a School Counseling program?

The School Counseling at Kiel is an integral part of the total educational curriculum. The program includes a comprehensive developmental classroom guidance program, individual and group counseling and crisis counseling. The purpose of the program is to assist students in developing positive attitudes and coping skills that will guide them through academic journey and in their daily life experiences.

What kinds of things does Ms. Tinney do at Kiel School?

• Teach monthly lesson in each classroom that focus on developing students' social and academic skills.
• Work with individual students to address issues that arise for kids on a daily basis: handling emotions, being a friend, positive self-talk, organizational skills, maintaining resolve and focus, working in groups, changes in families, managing conflicts, learning from mistakes, and many more.
• Act as a safe place in school where children can come to express thier feelings in a confidential and non-judgmental environment.
• Work with students in small groups to develop various skills and share feelings.
• Work with teachers to develop action plans and strategies to help students succeed.
• Work with parents and families to provide resources.
• Address inappropriate behavior with students to help them make better choices and learn positive coping skills.

Where is Ms. Tinney's office?

Room 215 is located on the second floor on the right side of the building two classrooms down from the Media Center.  

When can I contact Ms. Tinney?

I can be reached before, during and after the school hours, though my schedule varies day to day.  My phone number is 973-838-0611, virtual extension 6075 to leave a message.  If you need to speak to me right away, please call the main office and asked to be transferred directly.  You can also email me at tinneys@kinnelon.org.

Will Ms. Tinney contact me if she meets with my child?

I will only call if I have a concern about your child's safety or another child's safety.  I will also contact you if I think your child would benefit from meeting with me in a small group or individually on a short-term regular basis.  

What is confidentiality and how will I know what my child talked about with you?

I explain to the students that what we talk about will stay between us unless the student is being unsafe to him/herself or with others.  Please respect your child's privacy and allow him/her to share honestly with me without pressure to share what we discuss.  Please know that I will contact you immediately if I think your child is in any danger or if I think there's something you could do directly to help your child.  My primary obligation is to ensure the confidentiality of your child but balance that obligation with an understanding of the legal and inherent rights of parents/guardians to be the guiding voice in their children’s lives.

When do small groups meet?

I try to meet with children during their lunch period whenever possible.  If this cannot work, I ask the teacher to let me know a time I can meet with the child that is least disruptive to their learning time.