Referral Process
Grades K-8
Students can be referred for our services via their school counselor, Child Study Team case manager, teacher, school administrator, or parent/guardian. We gather information at the time of referral to gain an understanding of the presenting concerns and goals for treatment. We may provide outside referrals, depending on the case, to most appropriately address students’ needs.
Services for students K-8 are typically scheduled in the evening Monday through Thursday from 4 - 8 pm. One counselor is assigned to work with your child and family for individual/family counseling on a weekly basis for one-hour long sessions. The number of sessions is flexible and is dependent on the students’ needs and treatment progress. In the past, we have also conducted short-term counseling groups to the Piscataway students and families as need arises, including groups addressing grief, emotion management, and training for parents to help manage child behavior.
Grades 9 -12
Students can be self-referred or referred for counseling via their school counselor, Child Study Team case manager, teacher, school administrator, or parent/guardian. We gather information at the time of referral to gain an understanding of the presenting concerns and goals for treatment. We may provide outside referrals depending on the case to most appropriately address students’ needs.
Services for students 9-12 are scheduled during the school day Monday through Friday. Students can request weekly individual sessions, join group counseling, or walk-in as needed. Students are able to participate in both individual and group counseling sessions.
We want to ensure as minimal disruption to students’ academic demands. Therefore, scheduling for counseling sessions for high school students involves scheduling appointments during non-academic classes, such as during electives, homeroom/lunch periods, and study halls. We do not hold individual counseling sessions during core academic classes unless a student is in crisis. Our group counseling may be scheduled during a core academic class, however, teachers have the authority to decide whether or not the student is able to attend the group.
Permission/consent for services
New Jersey State Law presently requires that parents consent for services for children under the age of 14. At age 14 and older, youth can provide their only consent. We do our best to involve parents in services, but the ultimate decision is the child's.