What is a primary benefit of a middle school counselor referring a student to a private therapist while continuing their counseling relationship?

A primary benefit of a middle school counselor referring a student to a private therapist while continuing their counseling relationship is that the student can receive greater continuity of care by maintaining a counseling relationship. When a counselor keeps engaging with the student while the private therapist works on specific therapeutic goals, it ensures that both professionals are aware of the student’s progress and challenges. This communication fosters a more integrated support system, allowing for a comprehensive approach to the student’s emotional and social needs. By maintaining this counseling relationship, not only does the student have a consistent source of support at school, but the counselor can also adapt their school counseling interventions based on insights gained from the private therapy sessions. This holistic approach is especially beneficial during the transitional middle school years, where students may face numerous changes and challenges.