The Counseling Department at IACS is dedicated to supporting the academic, social/emotional, and post-secondary success of all middle and high school students. Through a collaborative, team-based approach, our counseling staff provide a range of services designed to help students thrive, overcome barriers, and prepare for life beyond high school.
Our department includes Post Secondary/College Counselors, School Counselors, School Psychologists and School Social Workers/Adjustment Counselors who work closely with students, families, and school staff to create a supportive and inclusive environment.
Our Commitment
The IACS Counseling Department is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment where every student can thrive. By addressing the academic, social/emotional, and mental health needs of students, we strive to remove barriers, build resilience, and help each student reach their fullest potential.
Please view our Counseling Presentation to meet our counselors!
Counseling Services as Part of an IEP
When students are found eligible for special education services, School Social Work/Adjustment Counseling may be included in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) to support their social, emotional, and behavioral development as it impacts learning. These services:
- Are integrated into daily classroom and school routines
- Are delivered collaboratively by a team of staff who share strategies and monitor progress
- Focus on building skills needed for education, employment, and independent living
- Occur in natural school environments and are designed to generalize across settings
- May vary in intensity and duration based on the student’s current educational needs
If a student no longer requires these services to benefit from special education, they are discontinued through the IEP process.
School-Based vs. Private Counseling
School social work services differ from private therapy and is not a substitution should private therapy not be available. In schools, services are provided only when a student’s disability significantly impacts their educational performance. If a student has emotional or behavioral needs that do not interfere with their learning, school-based counseling is not appropriate, and families are encouraged to pursue private counseling. School counselors can assist families in locating appropriate community resources.
Counseling vs. Speech & Language Services
- Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) support students with pragmatic language difficulties (understanding social cues, turn-taking, staying on topic, using language to navigate social interactions).
- Counselors support students who can communicate effectively but need help with broader social skills, emotional regulation, confidence, and managing frustration or conflict.
Counseling vs. BCBA services
- Counselors focus on the student’s overall academic, social and emotional well being while offering short term individual support and consultation.
- The focus of a BCBA is on analyzing and modifying observable behaviors with data driven plans. The BCBA can work on the design and implementation of support/intervention plans.
