Mrs. Helga Cluzet

I have 22 years of experience in the field of education, 17 of those years as a School Counselor.  During my time as a counselor, I worked at a high school in New York City, engaging with both students & teachers to help recognize and overcome barriers affecting children’s educational, social and long-term achievement.  Prior to becoming a counselor, I had the opportunity to work at my Alma Mater, Manhattan College.  As a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions, I recruited & assisted incoming students and their families throughout the admissions and financial-aid process.  I have been a part of the Brewster Central School District since 2017.  I have worked at JFK Elementary School, C.V. Starr Intermediate School and Wells Middle School as a School Counselor.

What is the Role of an Elementary School Counselor?

According to the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) elementary school counselors are educators uniquely trained in child development, learning strategies, self management and social skills, who understand and promote success for today’s diverse students. They provide a proactive program that engages students and includes leadership, advocacy and collaboration with school staff, administration and community/family members in the delivery of programs and activities to help students achieve success. Elementary school counselors also collaborate with teachers and parents on early identification and intervention of children’s academic and social/emotional needs, which is essential in removing barriers to learning and developing skills and behaviors critical for academic achievement.

Direct student services may include:

• Instruction – teaching the school counseling curriculum to students focused through the lens of selected student standards from the ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors for Student Success.
• Appraisal and advisement – assessing student abilities, interests and achievement to help them make decisions about their future.
• Counseling – providing professional assistance and support to a student or small group of students during times of transition, heightened stress, critical change or other situations impeding student success. School counselors do not provide therapy or long-term counseling in schools. However, school counselors are prepared to recognize and respond to student mental health needs and assist students and families seeking resources.  

Indirect student services may include:

• Consultation – share strategies supporting student achievement with parents, teachers, other educators and community organizations
• Collaboration – work with other educators, parents and the community to support student achievement
• Referrals – support for students and families to school or community resources for additional assistance and information