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  1. ACT Techniques
  1. LibraryLibrary
  2. Counseling
  3. ACT Techniques

ACT Techniques

Discover a curated collection of free resources on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailored for educators, students, and parents. Gain practical tools for fostering resilience, emotional flexibility, and mindful decision-making. Engage with interactive lessons, real-life scenarios, and hands-on activities designed to make ACT concepts accessible and actionable in everyday settings.

Suggested Resources

What's Your Inner Compass Pointing To

Tier 1

9th Grade Class

50 mins

This resource introduces students to the core principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), helping them understand how their values can guide their actions even when facing tough emotions. It's crucial for fostering emotional intelligence and resilience in a whole-class setting.

Thought Clouds

Tier 2

7th Grade Group

40 mins

This resource focuses on Cognitive Defusion techniques from ACT, teaching students how to observe their thoughts without getting entangled by them. This is vital for small groups to practice detaching from unhelpful thinking patterns, promoting mental space and clarity.

Is Your Mind a Time Machine

Tier 3

11th Grade Student

30 mins

This resource guides individual students through present moment awareness exercises, helping them anchor themselves in the 'here and now' rather than dwelling on the past or future. This is essential for students struggling with anxiety or distraction, providing practical mindfulness tools.

What Do You Really Stand For

Tier 1

10th Grade Class

60 mins

This resource helps a whole class identify and clarify their personal values, connecting them to meaningful actions and life goals. Understanding one's values is fundamental for motivation, decision-making, and living an authentic life.

Acceptance Practice

Tier 2

8th Grade Group

45 mins

This resource introduces acceptance as an ACT technique, teaching small groups to make room for difficult thoughts and feelings without judgment. This is crucial for building emotional resilience and reducing the struggle against internal experiences.

Who's Driving Your Bus

Tier 3

12th Grade Student

35 mins

This resource uses the 'Self-as-Context' technique, helping an individual student understand that they are separate from their thoughts and feelings, like the sky observing clouds. This empowers students to gain perspective and a stable sense of self amidst internal turmoil.

Are Your Actions Aligned With Your Values

Tier 1

11th Grade Class

55 mins

This resource engages the whole class in exploring 'Committed Action,' guiding them to set goals and take steps that align with their identified values. This is vital for transforming abstract values into concrete, meaningful behaviors.

The Struggle Switch

Tier 2

6th Grade Group

40 mins

This resource uses the 'struggle switch' metaphor to illustrate how fighting against difficult emotions often amplifies them, helping small groups understand the concept of acceptance. This provides a powerful visual for shifting from struggle to acceptance.

What's Your Personal Hexaflex

Tier 3

10th Grade Student

45 mins

This resource provides an individual student with a comprehensive overview of the ACT Hexaflex model, helping them understand how all six core processes work together. This is excellent for deep individual reflection and personalized application of ACT principles.

Mindful Moments

Tier 1

7th Grade Class

30 mins

This resource integrates short, practical mindfulness exercises into a whole-class setting, teaching students how to pay attention to the present moment without judgment. These 'mindful moments' are crucial for reducing stress and improving focus in daily life.

Defusion Games

Tier 2

5th Grade Group

35 mins

This resource offers engaging games designed to teach cognitive defusion techniques to small groups, making the process of separating from unhelpful thoughts fun and accessible. Playful learning helps solidify these essential coping skills.

How to Handle Unwanted Guests

Tier 3

8th Grade Student

25 mins

This resource uses a metaphor to help an individual student practice acceptance and defusion when dealing with difficult emotions or thoughts, treating them like 'unwanted guests' rather than enemies. This provides a relatable framework for managing internal experiences.

Community Resources

Community Resources

Stand Up, ACT Out!

This lesson empowers middle school students to understand bullying dynamics and respond effectively using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles. Students will learn to identify bullying, acknowledge their feelings, and choose valued actions, fostering resilience and a supportive peer environment in one 45-minute session.

Tier 2
9/16
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

Embrace Anxiety: ACT Skills

In this 30-minute individual session, adults will learn core Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques to manage anxiety. This lesson is important because it equips participants with practical mindfulness and defusion strategies for real-life stressors, promoting psychological flexibility and well-being.

Tier 3
5/27
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

Anxiety Action Plan

In this individualized Tier 3 session, students will learn how to develop a personalized treatment plan to manage anxiety related to family and relationship stressors. This 30-minute session equips a 12th grade female with clear coping strategies, self-awareness tools, and a step-by-step action plan to reduce stress and build resilience.

Tier 3
8/18

Lauren

s

VA Counselor

Understanding CBT: Thoughts, Feelings, Actions

This lesson introduces students to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Students will explore how these elements influence each other and learn practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. This lesson is crucial for developing self-awareness and emotional regulation skills, which are essential for mental well-being and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25

Deb Schmill

h

NY Instructor

What’s Holding You Back?

An interactive session introducing ACT’s core principles through self-reflection and peer discussions, helping students identify barriers to personal growth. This 45-minute Tier 1 lesson for 12th graders equips students with tools to uncover obstacles and align actions with their values.

Tier 1
8/26
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ashley_light

E

CA Instructor

ACTion Against Anxiety

In this 4-session series, teens will learn what anxiety is, how it shows up in their lives, and how to use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) skills to identify, accept, and manage anxious feelings. Important for supporting emotional well-being and resilience, each 25-minute session blends teaching, interactive activities, and games.

Tier 1
6/27
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

ACT in Action

A dynamic whole-class activity day where 6th graders practice all six Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) processes through rotating interactive stations. This Tier 1 lesson empowers students with mindfulness, values, and commitment skills in a 55-minute session.

Tier 1
5/22
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Alexis Kupovits

V

MI Counselor

Grief Counseling Simulation

This lesson involves a simulation-based activity where students role-play as grief counselors and clients. Through this exercise, students will learn effective communication and empathy skills, which are crucial for interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence. The lesson includes feedback sessions to help students reflect on their performance and improve their skills, making it a valuable experience for personal and professional development.

Tier 1
2/25
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Stephanie Cordero

q

TX Counselor

Feeling Stuck?

This 50-minute one-on-one counseling session helps a 10th grade student explore feelings of being stuck, identify personal barriers to motivation, and craft actionable strategies for forward momentum. It’s designed as an intensive Tier 3 intervention to empower individual growth and goal achievement.

Tier 3
5/12

Maria

V

MI Social Worker

Mindful Moments: Journaling and Positive Self-Talk

This follow-up individual counseling session aims to build on the previous lesson by introducing journaling and positive self-talk as additional strategies to manage overthinking. These techniques can help the student process thoughts and emotions more effectively, leading to improved mental well-being and focus.

Tier 3
2/25

Erica Carlos

E

CA Psychologist

Calm Your Nerves

This individualized session helps a student identify personal triggers for test anxiety and develop personalized calming strategies. It is crucial for fostering self-awareness and effective coping mechanisms.

Tier 3
5/1
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Adriana Hollifield

a

NC Counselor

Mindful Moments: Positive Self-Talk

This individual counseling session is designed for an 11th-grade student experiencing anxiety symptoms. The session will focus on introducing the concept of positive self-talk and its impact on emotional well-being. The student will learn how to create a personalized self-talk script for anxiety-inducing situations, enhancing their ability to manage emotions and stress effectively. This session is crucial for developing resilience and promoting a positive mindset.

Tier 3
2/25

Kyle Ryan

E

CA Psychologist

Positive Thought Quest

These two 20-minute individual counseling sessions help Adrian identify and replace negative self-talk with positive or neutral self-statements, understand the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and practice coping strategies like deep breathing and taking space. By mastering these skills, Adrian will build resilience, improve self-awareness, and positively impact his learning and peer interactions.

Tier 3
5/20
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Lindsey Jordan

Instructor

Live in the Now

An individualized 25-minute session for an 11th-grade student using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy techniques to strengthen present-moment focus and acceptance. This Tier 3 lesson provides a structured worksheet for prompts, a reflective journal, and a guided script for one-on-one coaching to support mindful awareness.

Tier 3
5/22
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Alexis Kupovits

V

MI Counselor

Focus & Feelings

A one-on-one counseling session for a 4th grader with ADHD and behavioral symptoms, focused on building self-awareness of emotions and strategies for maintaining focus. This 60-minute, Tier 3 intervention will help the student identify triggers, practice coping skills, and develop a personalized action plan.

Tier 3
6/9
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Sophie Clark

S

MA Social Worker

The Resilience Toolkit

In this individual ACT-based session, 9th-grade students identify personal values and commit to actions that build resilience. This 60-minute session uses engaging activities and self-reflection to foster psychological flexibility and long-term well-being.

Tier 3
9/9

carrie.yespy

S

MA Social Worker

Want to Feel Calmer?

An individualized 30-minute counseling session for an 8th-grade student focusing on deep breathing and grounding techniques to manage anxiety in real time. This Tier 3 lesson equips the student with on-the-spot tools for emotional regulation and fosters self-awareness and resilience.

Tier 3
5/14
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Kayley Bulin

v

WI Counselor

Stop. Think. Act.

This focused session equips parents with practical, step-by-step techniques to guide their middle schoolers through impulse control challenges. It's vital for navigating the complex social and emotional landscape of adolescence. Audience: Parents of Middle Schoolers. Duration: 60 minutes.

Tier 2
10/3
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Hanifah Suhandaru

CANADA General Education Teacher

How Do You Cope?

One-on-one counseling session designed for a 10th grader to explore and develop personal coping strategies for stress and anxiety. This 40-minute session will guide the student through self-reflection, skill-building, and planning actionable coping techniques to use in daily life.

Tier 3
5/21
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Jazmeen Rivera

N

IL Social Worker

Stop, Think, Act

A single 90-minute individualized session for a 7th grader with ADHD focused on building impulse control through the evidence-based Stop-Think-Act strategy. This lesson empowers students to identify triggers, practice self-monitoring, and develop personalized plans to pause before responding—essential skills for academic success and social-emotional growth.

Tier 3
5/12
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DANELLE LOCKLEAR

a

NC Social Worker

Conquering Test Anxiety: Building Confidence and Calm

This 4-session lesson is designed for students in grades 3-5 to help them manage and overcome testing anxiety. Through engaging activities, games, and discussions, students will learn strategies to build confidence and remain calm during tests. Each session is 20 minutes long, focusing on different aspects of anxiety management and providing practical tools that students can use in real-life testing situations.

Tier 1
4/3
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Hazel Boatwright

a

NC Social Worker

Anxiety Armor

An individualized coaching script and activity plan that equips a 10th grade student with mental tools—like positive self-talk and grounding techniques—to deflect stress and build emotional resilience. This Tier 3 individual support session lasts 60 minutes and empowers the student with practical strategies to manage anxiety.

Tier 3
7/28
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Giselle Ramirez

h

NY Counselor

Finding Your Anchor

A three-session individual counseling plan for a 9th grader experiencing severe anxiety and feelings of isolation. This Tier 3 support uses evidence-based coping strategies, reflective activities, and trust-building exercises to empower the student, improve self-esteem, and develop resilience in daily school life.

Tier 3
8/13
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Angie R

l

PA Parent

Think-Feel-Act Loop

In this Tier 2 group session, 10th grade students explore how their thoughts influence feelings and behaviors through a structured CBT framework. Over a 35-minute session, students engage in interactive mapping and scenario analysis to build cognitive awareness and self-regulation skills.

Tier 2
6/18
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spoirier

S

MA Social Worker

Brush Away Stress

In this 25-minute individual session for teens, students will learn to identify emotions, understand ACT-based coping strategies, and express feelings through art therapy. This lesson helps teens build personalized tools for emotional regulation and self-awareness.

Tier 3
6/27
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

The Thought Game

In this interactive 50-minute session, 6th graders play a board game that practices Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) skills by navigating real-life thought challenges. This lesson helps students recognize and reframe unhelpful thoughts, building emotional resilience and self-awareness. Perfect for a whole-class Tier 1 RTI session.

Tier 1
7/16

Catie Rami

I

FL Counselor

What’s on Your Mind?

A guided individual counseling session using open-ended questions and reflective exercises to help a student articulate and manage emotions. This Tier 3 session is designed for an 8th grade student and takes 30 minutes, focusing on individual counseling techniques to foster self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
5/21
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jsperry

S

MA Counselor

Calm Your Mind: Mastering Anxiety with CBT Techniques

This 6-session individual lesson for a 6th-grade female student focuses on reducing anxiety, excessive worry, and overthinking using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions. Each 45-minute session is designed to empower the student with practical skills to manage anxiety, fostering emotional well-being and resilience.

Tier 3
3/7

Suani Lopez

E

CA Social Worker

Mindful Moments

Short, focused exercises to teach mindfulness techniques for stress reduction and emotional regulation for an individual 11th grade student. This Tier 3 session is a 30-minute individual counseling mini-session to equip the student with practical tools for emotional regulation.

Tier 3
5/12

Emily Matson

O

IN Counselor

Can You Catch Your Thoughts?

In this individualized 45-minute session, a 9th grader learns to identify and challenge automatic thoughts using core CBT techniques, building self-awareness and emotional resilience.

Tier 3
8/5
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Sue Spafford

S

MA Counselor

Stay Cool, Test On

A 30-minute individualized session to teach a 4th grader simple calming strategies to manage test anxiety, including deep breathing, positive self-talk, and quick grounding techniques. This lesson is important to help the student build confidence and maintain focus during tests.

Tier 3
5/14

Kaytlin

j

OK Counselor, Social Worker

My Anger Toolkit: Mastering My Emotions

This individual counseling activity helps 4th-5th grade students identify triggers for anger, develop healthy coping strategies, and practice positive social interactions. It is designed for individual sessions focused on anger management, behavior, and social skills, and will take approximately 45 minutes.

Tier 3
9/15
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Siobhan Shaw

S

MA Psychologist

Mind Over Matter

Individual therapy sessions for 12th grade students focusing on cognitive reframing techniques to challenge negative thoughts and build optimism. This Tier 3 lesson provides a personalized roadmap for transforming unhelpful thinking patterns through guided dialogues and structured exercises.

Tier 3
9/8
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Tara Buonanno Williams

S

MA Psychologist

Echoes of Memory

An individualized counseling plan helping a 9th grade student process personal loss through art and reflection journals; this Tier 3 plan uses creative expression to support healing over a 50-minute session, fostering emotional growth and resilience.

Tier 3
7/30
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Katherine Nicolau

E

CA Counselor

Reflections of Confidence

A one-on-one, 15-minute counseling session for an 8th-grade male student focused on body image and anxiety. This session will use reflective activities to build self-awareness, challenge negative self-talk, and develop coping strategies. Tier 3 support tailored to individual emotional needs.

Tier 3
7/29
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Nicole Howell

B

AL Counselor

Can You Catch Anxiety?

In this detective-themed individual counseling session, a 5th grade student will track anxious thoughts like clues and learn strategies to ‘catch’ and challenge them. This 45-minute Tier 3 activity helps build coping skills and self-awareness in a personalized, engaging format.

Tier 3
5/20

Theresa

I

FL Counselor, Social Worker

Threshold Shift

A one-on-one individual counseling session for an 11th grader, using the Threshold Technique to help the student identify and embrace moments of personal growth and change. This 50-minute intervention empowers the student to visualize transitions, track milestones, and commit to new behaviors that support their evolving self.

Tier 3
7/15

C Canaan

B

AL Counselor

The Anxiety Anchor

A one-on-one protocol helping a 10th grade student ground themselves during anxiety spikes through breathing and visualization. This individual, Tier 3 session runs 30 minutes and equips the student with personalized tools to self-regulate.

Tier 3
8/20
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Lauren Williams

B

AL Counselor, Social Worker

Calm Test Moments

In this 15-minute individual Tier 3 session, the teacher works one-on-one with a 4th grader who experiences test anxiety. Through brief mindfulness exercises, question‐clarifying strategies, and a personalized ‘anxiety toolkit,’ the student will learn coping skills to stay calm, engaged, and confident during tests.

Tier 3
9/18
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C. Cortez

E

CA Counselor

Confidence Quest

In this 30-minute individual counseling session for a 7th grader with an IEP, students will engage in a CBT-based Confidence Quest activity to identify strengths, challenge negative thoughts, and build motivation for school work. This Tier 3 intervention helps the student develop self-awareness and actionable strategies to boost confidence and academic engagement.

Tier 3
9/11
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edline.louis

h

NY Social Worker

Stop, Think, Act

A focused 15-minute, one-on-one lesson designed to help a 4th grader with ADHD learn and practice impulse control strategies. This session is critical for building self-regulation skills, reducing impulsive behaviors like touching or spitting, and increasing on-task focus. Audience: Individual student (4th grade) with ADHD. Sessions: 1. Duration: 15 minutes.

Tier 3
8/25
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David Sayegh

E

CA Psychologist

Calm & Carry On

An individual 15-minute SEL counseling session for a 7th grader to identify stress triggers and practice quick, evidence-based coping strategies like breathing and grounding. This targeted Tier 3 intervention helps students develop self-regulation tools they can use anytime to feel more in control and resilient.

Tier 3
5/16
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Tia McMahon

h

NY Counselor

Mindful Moment Mastery

This 30-minute individual counseling session for 9th-grade students focuses on practical techniques to slow down, reduce anxiety, and improve focus on a single task. It's crucial for students who feel overwhelmed by multiple demands, providing them with actionable strategies for stress management and improved concentration.

Tier 3
9/29
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Celeste Rangel

E

CA Psychologist

Defeat Intrusive Thoughts

This intervention provides undergraduate students with a practical, at-home strategy to manage and reduce the impact of intrusive thoughts. It teaches a cognitive behavioral technique to challenge and reframe unhelpful thought patterns. Designed for individual use (Tier 3) and takes approximately 30 minutes.

Tier 3
Today
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Natalie Santiago

q

TX Counselor, Social Worker, Behavior Interventionist

The Emotion Map

A 20-minute, one-on-one counseling session guiding a ninth-grade student to use an Emotion Map worksheet to track emotional triggers and coping strategies over a week. This Tier 3 tool builds self-awareness and self-regulation through personalized reflection and counselor feedback.

Tier 3
9/9

Carla Eliezer

h

NY Social Worker, Counselor

Mind Matters Toolkit

A one-session, 30-minute individual counseling lesson for 6th graders focused on mental health counseling and building personal coping strategies. This Tier 3 lesson helps students identify emotions, learn coping tools, and practice self-talk to manage stress and anxiety.

Tier 3
5/16
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Jacqueline Russell

I

FL Counselor

Think Before You Act

A one-hour individualized session for Deborah focused on improving decision-making, understanding consequences, and boosting self-awareness to achieve personal goals. This lesson uses engaging readings, discussions, activities, and a game to practice reflective thinking and challenge unhelpful comparisons.

Tier 3
9/15
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Taylor Rowe

e

NJ Special Education Teacher

Flip the Script: Positive Thinking

This three-session individual counseling series for 8th graders focuses on reframing negative thinking patterns into positive ones. It's crucial for developing emotional resilience and improving mental well-being. Each session lasts 30 minutes and is designed to provide personalized support and practical strategies for managing negative thoughts.

Tier 3
5/8
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Gianna Akerberg

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

What If Thoughts Were Detectives?

An interactive module that helps whole counseling classes explore how CBT identifies and tests unhelpful thoughts—building core skills for guiding clients. Perfect for fostering critical thinking in your next seminar for graduate counseling students, Tier 1. 1 session of 60 minutes covering evidence-based CBT techniques.

Tier 1
8/25
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Rocio

E

CA Social Worker, Counselor

The Mirror Within

This one-on-one counseling session equips an 11th-grade student with the Inner Mirror Strategy, helping them identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns through metaphorical mirroring. By guiding self-reflection and positive reframing, the session promotes healthier self-talk and emotional resilience. (Tier 3, 50 minutes)

Tier 3
6/5

C Canaan

B

AL Counselor

Coping in Action

A 36-session individualized counseling series designed to help Isabella apply anxiety coping strategies in real-time classroom and social settings. Each 30-minute session builds on prior learning, tracks self-regulation progress, and empowers Isabella to advocate for support. Embedded reflection sheets facilitate data collection for student, teacher, and counselor feedback.

Tier 3
9/2
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Madelyn Moorhouse

S

MA Psychologist

Coping with Anxiety: Strategies for Success

This lesson aims to equip 10th-grade students with practical strategies to cope with anxiety. By engaging in a discussion, watching a video, and participating in an activity, students will learn to identify anxiety triggers and apply coping mechanisms. This lesson is crucial as it empowers students to manage their mental health effectively, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 1
2/25
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Karla Harness Brown

E

CA Instructor

Echoes of the Heart

A one-on-one Tier 3 grief counseling session designed for a 9th-grade student, empowering them to identify and process emotions, externalize grief, and develop personalized coping strategies. This 30-minute session equips the counselor with a structured plan and materials to guide the student toward self-compassion and resilience.

Tier 3
7/15

C Canaan

B

AL Counselor

Mindful Test Prep: Relax & Focus

This lesson focuses on equipping students with mindfulness techniques to manage test anxiety, a common barrier to academic success. By engaging in a guided meditation and collaborative activities, students will learn to relax and focus, enhancing their test-taking skills. This lesson is crucial for students in alternative education settings, as it addresses both emotional and academic challenges, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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Samantha Petroski

l

PA Instructor

Anger in Action: My Game Plan

This 25-minute individualized follow-up lesson helps 9th-grade students review and apply anger management strategies in real-life scenarios. It reinforces emotional regulation and proactive responses to anger.

Tier 3
9/25
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Jill Yoshimoto

K

HI Assistant Principal

Counseling Corner

A one-on-one counseling session for 5th graders focused on identifying emotions and learning coping strategies. This Tier 3 individualized lesson empowers students to understand their feelings and practice tools for emotional regulation within 30 minutes.

Tier 3
5/13
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Abby Downing

S

MA Counselor

Untwist Your Thinking!

This individual counseling session helps students identify common cognitive distortions and understand their impact on thoughts and feelings. It provides practical strategies to challenge and reframe these unhelpful thought patterns, fostering healthier emotional responses. Designed for one-on-one counseling sessions, lasting 15-20 minutes.

Tier 3
9/19
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Bianca Gregorio

S

MA Instructor

Motivation Power-Up

This 30-minute individual counseling session helps a 7th grader understand anxiety and motivation, learn positive coping strategies, and build a personal action plan. It’s vital for empowering students to manage stress and stay motivated in academics and life.

Tier 3
9/8
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Gabrielle Self

e

NJ Social Worker

Anxiety Toolkit

In this 15-minute Tier 3 session for 6th graders, students will learn practical coping strategies to manage anxiety in real time. This individual session provides targeted support and equips each student with personalized tools to feel calmer and more in control during stressful moments.

Tier 3
9/5
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Julie Donovan

S

MA Counselor

Mindfulness Moments

A 10-minute Tier 3 counseling session guide for 9th graders to practice quick mindfulness and breathing exercises for stress reduction and improved focus. This individual support session equips students with easy-to-follow techniques they can use anytime.

Tier 3
5/13

Anna Dinardo

i

OH Counselor

Light in the Clouds

In this three-session series designed for individual teen support (Tier 3), students will define depression, identify common symptoms, and learn the basics of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Each 25-minute session combines direct instruction, interactive activities, and reflective discussions to build awareness, coping skills, and emotional resilience.

Tier 3
6/27
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

Counseling Quest

In this fun, interactive 45-minute session, 6th graders will explore what counseling is, why it’s valuable, and how it can support them and their peers. Through games, discussions, and reflective activities, students will build comfort with counseling concepts, learn active listening skills, and discover when and how to seek help. This Tier 1 lesson fosters a supportive classroom community and equips all students with foundational social-emotional skills.

Tier 1
8/4
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Nicole Howell

B

AL Counselor

Grounding Practices for Trauma

This lesson introduces 10th grade students to grounding practices that can help manage trauma-related stress and anxiety. Through experiential learning and inquiry-based activities, students will explore techniques such as the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method. This lesson is important as it equips students with practical tools to manage emotional distress, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 1
2/25

Fazeel Chauhan

E

CA Social Worker

Mind Toolbox

In this 40-minute, Tier 3 individual therapy session, an 8th grade student will learn about various coping tools for managing stress and building resilience. Through an overview of coping strategies, a guided slide deck, hands-on activity, and reflection exercises, the student will create a personalized Mind Toolbox that promotes self-efficacy and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
9/5
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Sydney Jones

I

FL Counselor

Counseling Kickoff Chat

In this 30-minute individual counseling session, the counselor will review Aaron’s IEP goals, outline session expectations, introduce group norms (even in 1:1 context, i.e., counseling norms), and explain why counseling sessions occur. This lesson helps Aaron understand self-advocacy and coping strategies from day one, building rapport and a clear roadmap for success.

Tier 3
9/3

Orissa Lavia

h

NY Counselor, Behavior Interventionist, Social Worker, Psychologist

Gifted Minds: Growth Journey

In this one-session counseling lesson, 8th grade gifted students will explore perfectionism, manage self-expectations, and develop a growth mindset. This lesson supports individual Tier 3 needs by providing personalized strategies for emotional well-being and academic resilience.

Tier 3
9/5
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Sydney Jones

I

FL Counselor

Emotional Regulation Skills

This counseling session is designed to help a 5th-grade student learn and practice emotional regulation skills. By focusing on coping strategies such as deep breathing, positive self-talk, and visualization, the student will gain tools to manage emotions effectively. These skills are crucial for personal development and can enhance the student's ability to handle stress and emotional challenges.

Tier 3
2/25

Hollie Overholt

E

CA Counselor

Mind Maze

In this 45-minute, small-group Tier 2 counseling activity, students work together to navigate a puzzle-based physical maze under time pressure. Through defined roles and rules, they practice communication, cooperation, and stress management. This session builds group counseling techniques by encouraging reflection on problem-solving under stress.

Tier 2
5/19
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Heta Dalal

e

NJ Social Worker

Balanced Prep: Academics and Wellness

This lesson focuses on preparing students for the ACT and SAT exams by combining effective academic strategies with wellness practices for overall success. The lesson includes a balanced approach to test preparation, emphasizing both academic skills and self-care techniques to ensure students are mentally and physically prepared for their exams.

Tier 1
2/25

Ciara McNearly

p

TN Instructor

CBT for Kids: Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors

This lesson is designed for 1st to 3rd grade students with special needs and behavior challenges. The objective is to engage students in a fun, collaborative, and hands-on activity that helps them understand the connection between helpful and unhelpful thoughts and their feelings and behaviors using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. The lesson is designed to be completed in 15 minutes.

Tier 2
2/25
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Kristen LaRosa

D

AZ Counselor

Your Calmness Toolkit

This lesson helps Janariah, a shy, high-functioning high school girl, identify and practice three coping strategies (deep breathing, grounding techniques, taking a 2-5 minute break) to manage feelings of frustration or sadness. The goal is 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials when presented with real or imagined situations. This individual 30-minute session focuses on empowering her with practical tools.

Tier 3
9/30
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Iana Aguilera

E

CA Psychologist

Conquering Test Anxiety: Your Superpower Toolkit

Help students understand and manage test anxiety through practical strategies and activities. This lesson empowers students with tools to build confidence, reduce stress, and enhance performance during exams.

Tier 1
3/19
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Krissi Forgues

S

MA English

What’s on Your Mind?

In this 20-minute, one-on-one 3rd-grade counseling session, students will learn to recognize negative thoughts and interrupt them using positive affirmations. This lesson builds self-awareness and emotional regulation skills essential for healthy self-esteem and resilience.

Tier 3
8/26
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Virginia Lenac

E

CA Counselor

Chill Out: Mastering Test Anxiety with Confidence

This lesson is designed for special education middle school students in grades 5-7 to help them decrease test anxiety. In just one short session of 5-7 minutes, students will learn strategies to manage their anxiety, empowering them to approach tests with confidence. This lesson is crucial as it addresses the emotional and psychological barriers that can hinder academic performance, especially for students with IEPs, 504s, social-emotional impairments, and communication disorders.

Tier 2
3/28
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Kristen O'Brien

S

MA Counselor

Tackle Your Anger

In this 30-minute individual session, the student will learn strategies to recognize and manage anger using relatable soccer metaphors and interactive exercises. This lesson is crucial for helping the student process trauma, build emotional regulation skills, and feel empowered to 'score' positive reactions instead of frustration.

Tier 3
5/20
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Samantha Miranda

e

NJ Social Worker

Think Before You Act

This lesson is designed for a highly intelligent student with ADHD, focusing on impulse control and decision-making skills. Over two 30-minute sessions, the lesson will use engaging activities and games to help the student develop strategies to pause and reflect before acting, which is crucial for personal and academic success.

Tier 3
4/30
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Nathan Hand

S

MA Counselor

Therapy Transcript

This two-part 50-minute session for K–12 counseling teams teaches accurate and sensitive documentation of therapy sessions, emphasizing best practices for progress notes. Participants will learn transcript techniques, dos and don’ts, and apply skills through role-plays, live recordings, and peer feedback to improve their documentation quality.

Tier 1
8/29
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Monica Stine

T

MD Counselor

Mind Unhooked

In this 30-minute Tier 2 small group lesson, students will explore the concepts of cognitive fusion and cognitive defusion through ACT and art therapy techniques. They will learn how to recognize when they’re ‘fused’ with unhelpful thoughts and practice creative defusion strategies to gain mental flexibility. This lesson supports emotional regulation skills critical for social-emotional learning.

Tier 2
5/23
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

Coping Champions- Knight Alcantar

This 4-session, 30-minute-per-session counseling series guides a 7th grade student through mastering positive coping skills for overwhelming feelings. Through interactive lessons and a custom game, the student will practice stop-and-think, deep breathing, positive self-talk, and grounding techniques, aiming for 80% accuracy across scenarios.

Tier 3
10/3

Yvonne Brown

E

CA Psychologist

Counseling Kickoff

A 20-minute Tier 3 counseling refresher session for individual 6-8th graders who’ve used counseling before. This session briefly reviews confidentiality, checks in on coping skill practice, and gathers updated insights to recommit to growth and well-being.

Tier 3
8/22

Yvonne Brown

E

CA Psychologist

Goal Map

In this 15-minute Tier 3 individual counseling session, students use the Goal Map worksheet to identify and organize short-term and long-term academic and personal goals. This concise activity clarifies focus, boosts motivation, and informs personalized treatment planning for 9th-grade students.

Tier 3
7/15
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Sue Spafford

S

MA Counselor

Emotional Regulation Counseling Session

This individual counseling session is designed to help 7th-grade students recognize and manage their emotions effectively. Through personalized discussion and activities, students will learn to identify their emotions, understand their triggers, and apply coping strategies. This session aims to enhance emotional intelligence and resilience, which are crucial for personal and academic success.

Tier 3
2/25
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Sarah Corrigan

S

MA Psychologist

Your Thoughts Shape You!

This lesson introduces 1st and 2nd-grade students to basic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles, focusing on how thoughts influence feelings and actions. It helps students identify common thought patterns and develop simple strategies to challenge negative thoughts, promoting emotional regulation and resilience. This single, one-hour session provides foundational life skills for managing emotions.

Tier 1
9/30
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ConceptX

C

AR General Education Teacher

Mastering the Mind: Decision-Making and Problem-Solving for Teens

This lesson is designed for students who struggle with emotional regulation and decision-making, focusing on enhancing their problem-solving skills through realistic scenarios and CBT strategies. The session will last 30 minutes, incorporating differentiation strategies and offering a Spanish translation option to ensure accessibility for all learners.

Tier 2
3/21
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Jami Dion

S

MA School Administrator

Action for Joy

In this engaging 30-minute lesson, 8th graders will learn about behavioral activation—a strategy to lift their mood by engaging in positive activities. Students will discover the science behind how actions can influence feelings, practice planning and tracking mood-boosting activities, and leave with a personalized action plan. This Tier 1 classroom lesson fosters self-awareness, emotional regulation, and practical life skills.

Tier 1
5/19
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Jillian Wurster

S

MA Counselor

Counseling Kickoff

A 15-minute Tier 3 individual counseling session to introduce the student to counseling, build rapport, and set expectations. This lesson helps the student feel comfortable, understand the process, and engage actively in future sessions.

Tier 3
9/7
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cecilia caprino

l

PA Counselor

Stress SOS

A one-on-one counseling session teaching immediate stress-relief techniques and personalized coping plans for a 6th grade student, helping them manage anxiety in real time.

Tier 3
9/11

sonia.salman

E

CA Counselor

Cognitive Compass

A one-on-one, 15-minute session using a visual CBT compass to help a 12th grade student shift from distressing thoughts to balanced perspectives. This individualized lesson equips the student with a practical tool for self-regulation and cognitive reframing.

Tier 3
6/29
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Emily Roberts

O

IN , Special Education Teacher

Counseling Unlocked

An engaging 30-minute interactive lesson introducing 6th-grade students to the basics of counseling—what it is, who counselors are, and how talking can help. Students will learn key terms, practice active listening, and experience a mock counseling scenario. This Tier 1 classroom-wide lesson builds social-emotional skills and fosters a safe, supportive environment.

Tier 1
8/8
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Nicole Howell

B

AL Counselor

Emotion Excavation

A 35-minute, one-on-one counseling session guiding an 11th grade student through layered self-reflection exercises to uncover deeper emotions using targeted prompts and activities. This Tier 3 lesson provides structured materials (framework, journal, script, activity) to help the student build emotional awareness and coping strategies.

Tier 3
5/8
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Jennifer Nunez

E

CA Counselor

Feelings Superheroes

In this 25-minute Tier 3 lesson, 5- to 10-year-old children of divorced parents will learn core ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) concepts—recognizing feelings, accepting difficult emotions, and committing to value-driven actions—through art, discussion, games, and a worksheet. This targeted session helps them build emotional resilience and creative coping skills in a supportive one-on-one setting.

Tier 3
6/10
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Mikaela Secore

h

NY Counselor

Counseling Kickoff

A 20-minute Tier 3 introductory counseling session for individual 6-8th grade students, covering confidentiality, what to expect in counseling, a pre-test on coping skills familiarity, and a get-to-know-you questionnaire including a summer check-in. This lesson helps build trust and set the stage for future sessions.

Tier 3
9/12

Yvonne Brown

E

CA Psychologist

Thought Detective

In this 60-minute individual counseling lesson, students will learn to identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with positive alternatives using a fun detective theme. This lesson supports Tier 3 individual counseling for 3rd graders, fostering self-awareness and emotional resilience.

Tier 3
6/16
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Kally Barnes

I

FL Counselor, Social Worker

Mindful Decision-Making: Your Personal Guide to Wise Choices

This individual counseling session empowers students to practice mindful decision-making skills tailored to their personal academic and life scenarios. Through personalized guidance, students will learn to evaluate choices and consider long-term impacts, enhancing their critical thinking and responsibility.

Tier 3
5/13

Megan Mazzeo

S

MA Social Worker

Goal Mapping

In this 45-minute small-group session, 10th graders will use solution-focused brief therapy techniques to map concrete steps toward their personal goals using the miracle question—boosting clarity and motivation. This Tier 2 group counseling lesson guides students in defining their goals, visualizing success, and creating action plans to foster self-efficacy and progress.

Tier 2
5/12
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spoirier

S

MA Social Worker

Healing & Coping: My Power

This 30-minute individual therapy session for an 8th-grade student addresses self-harm and explores alternative coping mechanisms. It's crucial because it provides a safe space for the student to process difficult emotions and learn healthy ways to manage distress.

Tier 3
9/26
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Brittney Bullard

a

NC Social Worker

Unlock Your Thoughts

In this 30-minute, single-session Tier 2 group lesson, 9th graders are introduced to the basics of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Students will learn how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors through interactive activities, gaining practical skills to challenge negative thinking patterns. This lesson helps students develop essential self-awareness and coping strategies for stress and anxiety.

Tier 2
6/12

Rebecca.Bibeau

S

MA Counselor

Calm Your Inner Storm

In this 30-minute one-on-one counseling lesson, a high school sophomore will learn how anxiety affects the brain and body, practice a grounding mindfulness activity, and explore healthy coping strategies like deep breathing, journaling, and reframing negative thoughts. This targeted session empowers students with practical tools to manage anxious feelings and build emotional resilience.

Tier 3
5/21
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Melissa P.

S

MA Counselor

Pause. Reflect. Act.

A small group lesson focusing on the 'Pause, Reflect, Act' strategy for emotional regulation. This structured approach helps students develop a methodical way to handle their emotions.

Tier 2
3/16

Crystal Sullivan

h

NY Social Worker

Master Your Mind: Test Anxiety

This 1-hour, individual lesson provides a 9th-grade student with practical strategies to understand and manage test anxiety, fostering a more confident approach to assessments.

Tier 3
10/1
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Sarah Gormally

S

MA Counselor

Pause, Think, Act!

This lesson helps Secondary 1 and 2 students understand and improve their impulse control. Students will learn strategies to pause before reacting, think about consequences, and act intentionally. This 1-hour session provides practical tools for everyday situations.

Tier 1
9/24
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ConceptX

C

AR General Education Teacher

What's Holding You Back?

This 30-minute, single-session lesson for high school students helps them understand how their actions influence their emotions. Students will learn to define maladaptive behaviors and identify personal examples of avoidance or withdrawal that negatively impact their mood, fostering greater emotional awareness.

Tier 1
10/2

Rebecca.Bibeau

S

MA Counselor

Calm and Conquer

In this 30-minute lesson, 7th graders will learn strategies to manage anger and exam anxiety, helping them approach tests with a calm mindset. This lesson builds self-awareness, breathing techniques, and positive self-talk, empowering students to regulate emotions and improve test performance.

Tier 1
7/2
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Brooke Jackson

h

NY School Administrator

Emotion GPS

Students will work one-on-one with the counselor to identify emotional triggers, track their feelings, and develop personalized coping strategies. This individualized Tier 3 plan is designed for a 7th grade student in a 20-minute session to support self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
5/22
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Alexis Ziady

u

WA Counselor

Taming The Anger Beast

In this 45-minute, one-on-one CBT session, a 9th grade student will learn to identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and practice coping strategies to manage anger. This individualized Tier 3 support equips the student with evidence-based tools to improve self-regulation and emotional well-being.

Tier 3
8/5
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Sue Spafford

S

MA Counselor

Anxiety Triggers: My Classroom Map

This 15-20 minute individual counseling session helps one student identify and discuss specific classroom situations that trigger their anxiety during individual counseling sessions, as noted in previous counselor notes. By mapping these triggers, the student can begin to understand and develop coping strategies for their anxiety.

Tier 3
9/22
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Bianca Gregorio

S

MA Instructor

Catch Your Thoughts

A scavenger-hunt style activity guiding the student to notice automatic thoughts and replace them with positive self-management statements. This Tier 3 lesson for a 7th grader spans one 30-minute session, helping students identify, examine, and reframe negative thoughts to foster healthier self-talk.

Tier 3
7/4
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K M

L

IA General Education Teacher

Conquering Test Anxiety: Your Superpower Unleashed!

This lesson is designed to help middle school special education students ease test anxiety by equipping them with practical strategies and a positive mindset. In just 15 minutes, students will engage in a warm-up activity, a guided discussion, and learn techniques to manage stress and boost confidence during tests. This lesson is crucial as it empowers students to approach tests with a calm and focused mindset, enhancing their academic performance and overall well-being.

Tier 2
3/25
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Kristen O'Brien

S

MA Counselor

Coping Strategies Exploration

This lesson is designed for a one-on-one counseling session with a 4th-grade student. The focus is on helping the student identify five coping strategies they can use when experiencing heightened emotions. This lesson is important as it equips the student with practical tools to manage their emotions, promoting emotional regulation and resilience.

Tier 3
2/25
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Gianna Akerberg

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

Flip Your Inner Script

In this one-on-one 45-minute session, an 8th grade student learns practical activities to identify and reframe negative or anxious thoughts. This lesson empowers students to build resilience and a positive mindset through guided exercises and reflection. Tier 3 support ensures personalized strategies.

Tier 3
5/22

Lisa Cooper

E

CA Social Worker

Triangle of Thoughts

In this 30-minute Tier 2 group session for 10th graders, students will build group rapport and learn the basics of the CBT triangle—how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact. This lesson jumpstarts a 16-week anxiety-management curriculum with fun icebreakers and active group-building exercises.

Tier 2
6/18
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ahosmer

S

MA Social Worker

Counseling Connection

In this 30-minute Tier 1 lesson for 6th graders, students will be introduced to school counseling services and explore the power of a growth mindset. This engaging session fosters rapport between the counselor and students through an interactive ice breaker and emphasizes how embracing challenges helps them succeed academically and personally.

Tier 1
9/1
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KasCandra Dougherty

t

VT Counselor

What Makes CBT Tick?

An interactive 9th grade lesson exploring Cognitive Behavioral Therapy’s core principles and everyday applications. Students will learn how thoughts influence emotions and behaviors through engagement, role-plays, and reflections over one 45-minute session.

Tier 1
9/9
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dcelona

S

MA Counselor