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Pre-register for PSCC 2025

PROGRAMS

1.5 & 3 HOUR PROGRAMS

Monday, Feb 3  & Tuesday, Feb. 4

These conference programs are open to all registered attendees and will take place on Monday and Tuesday. 

6.5 HOUR LEARNING INSTITUTES

Sunday, Feb. 2

These programs are offered on Sunday for an additional fee to attendees. 

Sunday, February 2nd

Learning Institutes

A. Engaging Communities, Parents, and Students with Culturally Sustaining Practices

Time: 9:30am-5:30pm

Room: Galleon I

Topic: Ethics & Legal Issues

Presenter(s): Betty White

The 2022 ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors spells out the ethical imperative of engaging in culturally sustaining counseling practices and interfacing with our parents and communities in order to advantage ALL students.  This session will explore how to move towards this model and promote success for all.

B. Leading the New Texas Model: An Academy for Program Supervisors!

Time: 9:30am-5:30pm

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Jennifer Akins, Ernest Cox, Jeffrey Martinez, & Lesley Casarez

This workshop for school counseling program leaders introduces the new Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs and skills required to teach and guide it. Selected activities teach them to explore and create the program's philosophical foundations, organizational structure of services, and curriculum for focused content.

C. Let's Dig In! Influence, Impact and Empowerment through Sandtray

Time: 9:30am-5:30pm

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Vanessa Colburn

Join this hands-on experience, led by a Certified Sandtray Therapist. Learn about basic materials involved and how to use prompts to guide builders. Gain knowledge and confidence through sandtray builds. Connect through professional engagement to identify developmental and counseling theories in the sand. All skills levels welcome!

Monday, February 3rd

90-minute Programs

1. Increase Efficiency & Reduce Compassion Fatigue

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Harbor

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Vicki Williams

Come learn tips and tricks to manage your counseling office space to control the chaos that can consume our energy and time. Prevent compassion fatigue, increase efficiency, and save time to keep students at the center of your work.

2. We're All in This Together: Sharing Responsibility for Student Social and Emotional Development

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Grand Ballroom A

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Lindsey Jannaman

Building student social and emotional skills isn't a one-person job. This is done most effectively when everyone in the building is promoting and supporting SEL practices and routines. Join us as we share ways to increase school-wide collaboration to support implementation at the classroom level and throughout the school.

3. School Counseling Supervision: Best Practices for Site Supervisors, Faculty Supervisors & Interns

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Grand Ballroom B

Topic: Counselor Education & Supervision

Presenter(s): Melissa Brennan, Carla Smith, & Brandi Rechtorovic

This session reviews best practices in school counseling supervision for site supervisors, faculty supervisors, and interns. Topics include school counseling supervision models, communication and scheduling strategies, and potential ethical dilemmas in supervision. This interactive session also allows attendees to collaborate and discuss supervision strategies with fellow participants.

4. Accepting Technology...What gives?

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Grand Ballroom C

Topic: Ethics & Legal Issues

Presenter(s): Traci Test & Crysta Veillon

AI isn't going anywhere, but how can we think smarter and use the technology tools that are available? Join as we explore the implicit bias we have for change in technology and supporting aspects of student development in this new world. Includes practical tips and examples to implement on campus.

5. Counselors and Administrators Working Together for What's Best for Kids!

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Galleon I

Topic: College, Career, Military Readiness

Presenter(s): Patricia Frost, Robert Hon, & Dr. Steven Edlin

CCMR Accountability is constantly changing! Ingleside High School shares how their administrators and counselors work together to meet these every changing challenges while keeping students FIRST! By incorporating these practices, they have moved from a CCMR accountability rating of a C to an A!

6. Creating Safe Spaces: Strategies for Supporting Students and families within the LGBTQ+ Community *RECORDED

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Danielle Hall, Rachel Portlock, Cynthia Jones, & Melodie Garrett

This presentation aims to enhance support for adolescents that identify as LGBTQ+ and equip school counselors with essential knowledge, tools, and resources. Topics include understanding LGBTQ+ identities, recognizing their unique challenges, implementing best practices, fostering allyship, advocating for inclusive policies, and building partnerships with families.

7. Texas Education Agency presents: Building Bright Futures for students in Foster Care

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): LaTrenda Watson

This session aims to equip school counselors with practical strategies to effectively support and advocate for students in foster care. Through interactive discussions, examples and resource sharing, participants will explore the unique challenges faced by foster care students and learn evidence-based approaches to foster their academic, social, and emotional well-being.

8. Twice Exceptional: Interventions for Anxiety in High-Performing and Gifted Adolescents

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Schooner

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Ashley Frutos, Maryam Siddiqui, & Sinem Akay-Sullivan

This presentation aims to educate attendees about the signs of anxiety in adolescents who experience additional anxiety-provoking situations due to being twice-exceptional, high-performing, or gifted. By understanding how anxiety impacts this population and implementing appropriate strategies, counselors can help students develop the skills they need to succeed academically and personally.

9. I'm Grieving As Fast As I Can!

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Clipper

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Jill Reithmayer

In a world saturated with loss, we rarely get to fully grieve our losses.  The past few years have contained multiple losses coupled with lost opportunities to grieve.  Come discover the critical tasks, challenges & obstacles for the grieving.  Ungrieved past losses will complicate future losses.

10. Behavior Tutoring is an Intervention

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Spinnaker

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Royce Henley, Julie Regalado, Michael Kaemmer, & Isaac Romero

Behavior Tutoring is a Tier II intervention designed to support students exhibiting problem behaviors. Presenters in this session have applied Behavior Tutoring at their campus and together we will share our experiences, the benefits, and how to get started.

11. Harnessing Your Potential: Unlocking a Life of Personal Growth and Success

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Mainsail- San Luis Resort

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Shelly-Ann James-Perelion & Shelia McMullin

As professional counselors, finding time for personal wellness, growth and success can be challenging. This presentation is designed to help counselors unlock and embrace their potential by learning how to identify and utilize their unique strengths, raise self-awareness, challenge limiting beliefs and set achievable goals for personal and professional growth.

12. The Diversity Stress Game

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Elissa- San Luis Resort

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski

A Wellness experiential presentation with reflective feedback. Managing stress is increasing self-awareness and sense of control.  Neurological studies revealed minor stress may weaken the cognitive capability to regulate stress. Other research noted the use of games to enhance the cognitive experience, creating insight and develop new stress management strategies.

13. How Do We Talk About Bodies? Assessment and Prevention of Eating Disorders in Schools

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Windjammer- San Luis Resort

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Ametis Bassir

Introduce counselors to how to best screen, assess, and prevent the many factors that lead students to develop body image issues and eating disorders. Exploration of the intersectionality of negatively internalized messages around weight, fatphobia, transmission of diet culture, and body shaming with mental health symptoms.

14. From Prison to Purpose

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Squarerigger- San Luis Resort

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Darla DeLeon & Michael DeLeon

Anyone who works with youth will use this story and its lessons to inspire kids. Telling kids to 'Never Give Up' is more believable and well-received when it's attached to a real-life story. This is that story. It's a cautionary tale that will change the way educators do their jobs.

15. Social Media Awareness at the Secondary Level: Learning How to Set Healthy Boundaries

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Spinnaker- San Luis Resort

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Victoria Elizondo, Samantha Trevino, Katrina Duvall, & Pricilla Rodriguez

This presentation will explore both the positive and negative impacts of social media use in grades 6-12. Key topics will include the role of social media in bullying/cyberbullying, strategies and activities for helping students find balance and setting healthy boundaries through guidance lessons and small groups.

16. ABZ Elevate your Small Groups

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Ballroom AB- San Luis

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Krystel Santiago Villarrubia & Hector Ortiz

A complete guide for Small Groups, with everything a School Counselor needs to work with students from the beginning to the end of a School Year. This is a complete guide on how to set up a successful small group, including permits, consent letters, hands-on activities, and worksheets.

17. Rhythm and Resilience: Integrating Tapping and Rapping in Social Emotional Learning

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Ballroom CD- San Luis

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Denise Toro

Dive into 'Rhythm and Resilience' and discover how to weave tapping and rapping into your SEL curriculum! This dynamic program combines historical insights, practical techniques, and interactive activities to help you enhance emotional regulation, foster social connections, and ignite creative expression in your classroom.

Monday General Session- Information Pending

Time: 10:00-11:30am

Room: Exhibit Hall B

Topic: TBD

Presenter(s): TBD

18. Guiding Student Success in a Digital World

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Harbor

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): DeeAnn Montanez, RoseMary Hernandez, & Evangelina Piedra

Join us to learn how to help students create a safe environment using key strategies for respecting privacy, managing digital footprints, and understanding online behavior. This session covers personal boundaries, self-concept, and authenticity, and will equip you to guide students in digital citizenship and netiquette for a positive online experience.

19. Roles and Functions of a School Counselor and Its Effects on Ethical Integrity

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Grand Ballroom B

Topic: Ethics & Legal Issues

Presenter(s): Mary Mayorga, Bianca Goodrum, & Melissa Brennan

Presentation will review roles and functions of professional school counselors, the importance of ethical integrity and awareness of ethical transgressions of standards that might happen due to increased roles and responsibilities for a PSC.

20. TSCA Presents: Advocacy for School Counseling

*RECORDED

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Grand Ballroom C

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Lesley Casarez, Michael O’Briant, Justin McClure, & Ernest Cox

This presentation will provide best practices and strategies in advocacy for the school counseling profession and students' well-being. Advocacy for counselors is an ethical mandate, but often seen as intimidating. We will break advocacy down so that every counselor will walk away ready to be an advocate for the profession!

21. The Impact of Cultural Humility on the Counseling Process

*RECORDED

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Galleon I

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Kindall Tyson

This session is for counselors who desire to practice greater empathy, strengthen their self-understanding, improve their relationships with their students and school community, and who want to exemplify the importance of cultural understanding and humility to foster a healthier sense of safety and community.

22. Counseling students toward change: It's not just a conversation

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Kristen Ascencao, Gail Roaten, & Daniel Ascencao

This presentation will focus on counseling theories and specific counseling skills needed to turn conversation into intentional, short-term individual counseling in the school setting. While the counseling relationship is crucial, it is specific counseling theories and counseling skills that are the vehicles of student awareness and change.

23. Chaos to Calm: Understanding Why People Behave the Way They Do and What To Do About It.

Time: 12:30-1:30pm

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Tracy Skripka & Dan Eble

In this engaging session, participants will learn skills to transform chaos to calm within themselves, the staff, the children, the classroom, and the school. It is critical that we prioritize the wellness and mental health of the adults to create a healthy school culture where students and staff can flourish.

24. Lost in Screens: Navigating Behavioral and Mental Health Challenges in a Tech Driven World

*RECORDED

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Spinnaker

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Jennefer Bell & Holly Casey

As the use of technology has risen, so have behavioral and mental health concerns within the school system and homes. Explore as we dive into these challenges and discover the research behind this topic. Enhance your social-emotional understanding, and learn techniques to apply towards behavioral and mental health interventions.

25. Fentanyl: Fake & Fatal

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Helm

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Darla DeLeon & Michael DeLeon

Fentanyl is now the #1 cause of death in America 18-45 years of age.  Awareness is not enough; we must provide comprehensive education.  This session will provide true education with a standardized video-based curriculum audience members can take back to their schools with them.

26. It Takes a Village: Partnering with Parents and Community for a Stronger School Counseling Program

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Mainsail- San Luis

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Rachel Gandar, Erica Soto, Yvonne Busenlehner, & Elisa Bird

Join us to discover how school counselors from San Angelo ISD are successfully engaging parents and the community while strengthening their school counseling program. You'll walk away with strategies to boost parent and community involvement while enhancing your comprehensive school counseling program.

27. Nurturing Dual Role School Counselors: Tips from former interns for Engaging Supervisees for Success

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Squarerigger- San Luis

Topic: Counselor Education & Supervision

Presenter(s): Ashley Frutos & Lindsey Taylor

Join us for a detailed workshop addressing the challenges school counselors face as they work towards becoming licensed professional counselors (LPC). This session will discuss effective ways to support and guide new counselors based on real-world experiences and open conversations. Gain knowledge and a plan to build counselor resilience.

28. Can't We All Just Get Along? Restorative Practices Across the Tiers!

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Spinnaker- San Luis

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Matt Smith & Chastidy Ervin

Come and see how Name Removed for Reviewers ISD uses Restorative Circles in classrooms to foster connection, build community, and problem solve. We all know relationships aren't always easy. Come learn and laugh with us as we navigate the journey together!

29. Sandtray Therapy: Cultivating Self Compassion to Reduce Stress and Burn Out for Teachers

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Ballroom AB- San Luis

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Alexis Benavides

An interactive session on using sandtray therapy to foster self-compassion and reduce stress among teachers. Gain hands-on experience with activities, learn techniques for emotional processing, and develop adaptable sandtray sessions for educators. Leave equipped to support teacher well-being and manage burnout effectively.

30. Increasing School Counselor CCMR Knowledge and Self-Efficacy

Time: 12:30-2:00pm

Room: Ballroom CD- San Luis

Topic: College, Career, Military Readiness

Presenter(s): Jeff Cranmore & Amanda Jolivet

Today's school counselors are faced with responsibilities that compete with counselors' ability to attend to the postsecondary needs of their students. This session will focus on sharing obstacles to Texas school counselors' CCMR self-efficacy and strengthen their CCMR knowledge, including opportunities to identify ways to advocate for CCMR

Monday, February 3rd

3 Hour Programs

31. Behaviors on Fire: Creating Behavior Change in Students Through Group

Time: 1:00-4:00pm

Room: Schooner

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Kendra McLaughlin

Participants will learn how trauma has impacted student behavior and a new way to create behavior change through a group process that addresses social, emotional, and behavioral challenges with students. Participants will also see a demonstration of the group and have time to plan lessons for their students.

32. TxSAIGE Presents: SOGIE Issues in Schools

Time: 1:00-4:00pm

Room: Clipper

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Michael Lesher & Brian Kennedy

In this interactive SOGIE training, counseling professionals will gain an understanding of terminology, social awareness, and resources to work with Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities. Participants will engage in conversation that explore critical concerns for the LGBTQ+ community in regard to counseling codes of ethics.

33. The New Texas Model: Assessing, Planning, and Implementing Continuous Improvement of Program Service

Time: 1:00-4:00pm

Room: Elissa- San Luis

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Ernest Cox, Jeffrey Martinez, Angela Powell, & Elias Zambrano

This session briefly introduces participants to the new Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs. Then this action-filled workshop provides attendees practice in assessing their current programs and use group work to individually generate goals and related strategies for continual improvement of services to their constituencies.

34. Experiential Counseling Using Nature

Time: 1:00-4:00pm

Room: Windjammer- San Luis

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Jason Sharp & Errin French

With potential benefits ranging from the reduction of stress and anxiety to increasing attention and focus, incorporating natural elements into guidance lessons and counseling sessions should be a tool in every counselor's toolbox.  This session will focus on the integration of nature into everyday school counseling practice.

Monday, February 3rd

90-minute Programs

35. A Regulated Classroom is a Learning Classroom

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Harbor

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): C. Ingram-Appleby

Utilizing Dan Seigel's 'Flipping Your Lid' analogy, educators will have quick, comprehensive tools and coping strategies to utilize in the classroom that support creating a regulated, connected learning environment and optimal academic opportunities.

36. Help, I'm a school counselor in a rural area!

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Grand Ballroom A

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Tara Fox & Rebecca Bass

The presenters will explore challenges of rural school counseling. Attention will be given to rural culture and its impact on attitudes around counseling. Common ethical dilemmas and unwritten rules experienced as a rural school counselors will be presented. Presenters will explore strategies to build support and reduce school counselor burnout.

37. Unveiling the Polyvagal Theory Link: Mental Health and Sleep

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Grand Ballroom B

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Dr. Cynthia Lee Coronado, Elizabeth Aceves, Nilda Salinas, & Jennifer Plunkett

Discover the link between Polyvagal Theory & sleep as it relates to mental health. Learn how taking control of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) impacts mental health like depression, anxiety, intermittent explosive disorder, & PTSD. Mitigating the effects of an overactive ANS could alleviate physiological, mental, and sleep issues.

38. The New Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs: What You Want and Need to Know!

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Grand Ballroom C

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Jennifer Akins, Jill Adams, Lesley Casarez, & Ernest Cox

This session introduces the new Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, 6th Edition, now complete! Learn about the differences in the new edition and its usefulness to you with your own school counseling program.  Selected activities will acquaint you with the many tools available in the new Model.

39. Fun With Tier 1: Engagement Strategies For Whole Group Instruction

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Galleon I

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Lindsey Jannaman

Looking for fresh activity ideas to incorporate into your Tier 1 lessons? New to whole-group instruction? Join us as we discuss and model a variety of ways to make your Tier 1 instruction engaging and memorable for elementary students. This session will be interactive and full of movement and music.

40. Advocacy, Growing the Profession

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Traci Test, Jeff Cranmore, & Natalie Rangel

As school counselors, we are often tasked with providing career guidance to students and families, but what do we do when the faculty on campus want to talk about career changes? Especially those interested in counseling? This session will focus on supporting potential future school counselors on your campus.

41. Healing the Spirit: Practical Strategies for Supporting Students After Trauma

*RECORDED

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Angela Waggoner, Leigh Kent, & Traci Whittenberg

Healing the Spirit focuses on providing the participant with practical strategies that are helpful in today's schools. It starts with an overview of trauma, then shifts focus to the neurobiological effects of trauma, and closes with a 'now what' approach.

42. What Drives You? 8 Archetypes for Driving Change in the Classroom and Beyond

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Spinnaker

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Jennifer Malave & Melisa Nichols

The powerful catalysts for change within a campus are often underestimated. Educators in all settings can provide unique insights and pathways to create change in K-12 education. In this program you will learn your unique leadership style and how to collaborate with other leadership styles to create a successful program!

43. Navigating the Intersection of Substance Misuse and Mental Health in Students

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Helm

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Adeli Cortez & Amanda Tran

Our mental health is an integral part of our identity, shaping how we perceive and connect with others. As school counselors, we witness firsthand how mental health challenges and substance misuse hinder our youth from reaching their full potential. Supporting all our students is vital.

44. Building Bridges: Broaching Race, Ethnicity, and Culture in School Counseling

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Mainsail- San Luis

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Danelle Flores

Broaching involves a counselor's effort to address race, ethnicity, and culture with students. This session explores the challenges school counselors face, offers techniques for initiating these critical conversations, and provides opportunities to apply skills through case studies and discussions. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of effective broaching strategies.

45. Unveiling the Triggers of Violence: Essential Threat Assessment and Intervention Strategies

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Squarerigger- San Luis

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Gabriela Chapa Herrera & Lela Bamberg

This session is designed for PK-12 counselors to explore the factors that contribute to violent behaviors among students. Participants will gain valuable insights into the impact of these triggers on student behavior, receive an overview of threat assessment, and learn actionable steps to mitigate threats using actual cases.

46. Basic Sandtray Therapy

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Spinnaker- San Luis

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Ya-Wen Melissa Liang, Linda Hart & Charlene Perez

School counselors report positive changes in students when providing sandtray therapy (Homeyer & Sweeney, 2022). Clients and students grow healing and self-awareness through sandtray therapy. This session is designed to demonstrate sandtray therapy to school counselors for working with students on exploring counseling, academic, multicultural, and supervision issues.

47. Power up your approach to grief and loss.

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Ballroom AB- San Luis

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Tommie Vela

Are you not sure where to start when it comes to addressing grief and loss with your students and staff? This program will take a deep dive into their perspective of their loss along with ways you can help them cope through individual and group activities.

48. The Roots of Violence:  Bullying, Gangs, Violence, Hate Crimes & Kids Killing Kids

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Room: Ballroom CD- San Luis

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Jill Reithmayer

Violence continues to escalate ? everywhere!  Come explore the Six Roots of Violence, identify Social Toxins that contribute as well as learn the Patterns of Violence.  Take a closer look at specific Warning Signs as well as the Healing Process for 'hurt kids' to heal not, hurt others.

49. Fostering Inclusivity: Strategies for School Counselors to Cultivate a Sense of Belonging for All ST

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Harbor

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Kristi Massey

This presentation addresses the needs of students from diverse minority groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and other marginalized populations. The objective is to provide school counselors with strategies to foster inclusivity and acceptance within their school-wide programs.

50. Project Empathy: The Neuroscience of Addiction and Positive Psychology Interventions

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Grand Ballroom A

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Drew Dutton

Join Project Empathy to dismantle stigma around substance use disorders. This workshop delves into the neuroscience of addiction, integrating solution-focused therapy, positive psychology, and empathy. Transform interactions and treatment, stay informed on substance use impacts, especially for adolescents, and reshape the narrative with compassion and evidence-based practices.

51. Trauma-Informed School Counseling: Essential Tools for Recovering From a Disaster

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Grand Ballroom B

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Elizabeth Davis & Grace Cantor

This session will explore the core principles of trauma-informed care and how they apply to school counseling after a disaster. Learn practical strategies for supporting students and staff, including techniques for emotional regulation, building resilience, and addressing specific trauma responses.

52. Functioning Like an Executive as an Elementary School Counselor: Executive Functioning

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Grand Ballroom C

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Ana Amaya, Sarah Metcalf, Jasminn Moore, & Laura Norton

School counselors play a crucial role supporting students with executive functioning challenges. By integrating targeted strategies, elementary counselors can empower students and build a strong foundation for academic, emotional, and personal growth.  Educators and counselors can support students, staff, and themselves in becoming more self-aware, resilient, and capable individuals.

53. Making Mindfulness Meaningful

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Galleon I

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Kristen Guerra & Katherine Tolbert

This interactive session focuses on defining mindfulness and its benefits to students. Presenters will provide ways to incorporate mindfulness through campus events, individual counseling, group, and guidance. Participants will practice mindfulness through various activities from mindful art to breathing fidgets. Information can be brought back to schools to implement immediately.

54. A Rose by Any Other Name: Advocating Leadership, Title, & Duties of a Professional School Counselor

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Adrianne Holmes

This session will motivate and provide the sweet smell of professional efficacy to school counselors. Using the Texas and ASCA Models and the ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors, session participants will walk away with an empowering arsenal of advocacy activities and a game-plan full of intentional, mindful strategies.

55. Empowering School Communities: Integrating Self-Care, Yoga and Mindfulness Well-Being

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Elizabeth Hudson & Samone Donald

The program aims to foster a supportive school environment by integrating self-care practices like yoga and mindfulness into the daily routines of school counselors, teachers, and principals.

56. Heathy Conflict/An Antidote to Bullying:Maneuvering through high conflict at school and in the world

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Schooner

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Sharon Fonke

An action plan for counselors to identify high conflict and move toward healthy conflict and repair by:

* Helping students identify the conflict experience, feelings, and to voice it. 

* What is the under story? -the deep dive into what conflict is really about.

* Teaching healthy conflict techniques and repair

57. Implementing Sensory Small Groups with Student Support Counselors

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Clipper

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Christina Shaw, Dawn Coryat-Hon, Tamisha Daniels, & Xochil Hinshaw

They are implementing sensory small groups with secondary students. The group objectives are to enhance students' emotional and sensory regulation, thereby improving their overall well-being and academic performance. Attendees will leave with a sense of empowerment to implement at least a 'pilot' small group for the Spring semester.

58. A Community Response Guide for Mandatory Reporters

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Spinnaker

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Candace Mosley

This presentation will provide school counselors with a comprehensive overview of Texas laws and guidelines for reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children. Attendees will learn the legal obligations under the Texas Family Code regarding mandatory reporting, including who is required to report, what constitutes abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and how to recognize the signs. The session will cover the process for submitting reports to the appropriate agencies, timelines for reporting, and the protections afforded to reporters. Additionally, we will discuss the potential legal consequences for failing to report and offer best practices to ensure compliance with state law.

59. Starting from scratch! Deesigning an impactful and targeted Comprehensive Counseling Program

Time: 4:30-6:00pm

Room: Helm

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Jacquelyn Trejo, Gloria Zavala, & Miranda Sifuentes

Designing a Comprehensive Counseling Program involves understanding the ASCA National Model, assessing student needs, evaluating the current program, setting goals, and creating a detailed plan. This session will explore how a new team of counselors analyzed campus needs, implemented Social and Emotional Learning lessons, addressed disparities in access to advanced.

Tuesday, February 4th

90-minute Programs

60. Human Trafficking Training for Education and Youth-Serving Professionals

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Harbor

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Amy Jolley & Denise Mears

Research indicates that youths being trafficked do not self-identify; educators have the opportunity to help identify victims and provide support services. Youth-serving professionals must have the proper knowledge and understanding of how to recognize, respond to, and report human trafficking.

61. Polyvagal Theory's Link to Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Grand Ballroom A

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Dr. Cynthia Lee Coronado, Karina Saldana, Patricia Goodman

Discover the correlation between Polyvagal Theory (PT) and Emotional Intelligence (EQ). Learn how to incorporate Polyvagal Theory and EQ into school counseling and private practice. In addition, come away with strategies to enhance your counseling skills as you create and maintain the connections that build trust and provide safety.

62. Trauma-Informed Counseling Strategies for Culturally Diverse Students in School Settings

*RECORDED

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Grand Ballroom B

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Randi Crabtree

This session equips school counselors with trauma-informed strategies to support culturally diverse students facing abuse and neglect. Learn the latest therapeutic techniques, behavioral interventions, and the importance of cultural sensitivity through case studies, discussions, and actionable insights to foster a safe, supportive environment.

63. Take action to stop bullying

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Grand Ballroom C

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Ya-Wen Melissa Liang

Bullying involves written, verbal, physical, or cyber conduct. Bullying is a criminal offense and results in students' anxiety, depression, anger, emotional distress, harm, or property damage. No student should be in an abusive or intimidating environment. Bullying disrupts the educational process and school operations. Let's facilitate prevention and stop bullying.

64. Building Belonging to Increase Black Male Engagement in Secondary School Settings

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Galleon I

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Ashley Baines & Carla Guice

Black males represent an understudied and vulnerable population within academic school settings. Moreover, Black male students face numerous challenges and barriers that significantly affect their sense of belonging and level of engagement. This training aims to address these issues by focusing on fostering inclusive practices through the enhancement of relationships.

65. TSCA Presents: Riding the Wave: Navigating Change for Self, Students, or Staff

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Stacey Griggs, Michelle Kelley, & Elizabeth Flores

Engaging in ongoing examination of self as it relates to one's coping abilities, interactions with others, and effectiveness at school, or in the workplace, is imperative for success. This session will walk participants through reflective exercises using Prochaska and DiClemente's Stages of Change. Join us as we Ride the Wave!

66. Where is Wonder Woman? How metaphors are utilized in mental health therapy and supervision.

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Kathleen Jones-Trebatoski

Presentation is for educators, supervisors, and counselors. Creativity is a multicultural phenomenon. The use of metaphors helps the individual to identify an issue, monitor progress, and implement strategies. It is an empowering interaction that explores barriers and solutions. This presentation will include experiential metaphor examples along with reflective feedback.

67. Vaping Me Crazy!

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Schooner

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Darla DeLeon & Michael DeLeon

Vapes are not just being used by adults trying to quit smoking. Kids were the intention of this product.  Many of these devices have become drug delivery systems.  It is critically important that school leaders, counselors, educators, anyone who works with youth know what's happening in this situation.

68. Law and Order: CCP- Comprehensive Counseling Program

*RECORDED

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Spinnaker

Topic: Ethics & Legal Issues

Presenter(s): Ashley Frutos & Stephanie Zamora

Order in the court! Join us for an engaging session on implementing legislation in your elementary comprehensive counseling program. We will present evidence on creating a safe, supportive school environment and promoting mental health intervention strategies in the four components of your comprehensive counseling program.

69. Navigating the Ripple Effects of Grief on Today's Youth

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Mainsail- San Luis

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Timika Keller, Dr. Tiffany Wilson, & Camry Boudy

This presentation explores the multifaceted impact of grief on young people, offering insights into emotional, social, and developmental challenges. The presentation provides practical strategies for educators, caregivers, and mental health professionals to support youth as they navigate loss and build resilience in a rapidly changing world.

70. Program Pending

71. School Counseling Resources at the Texas Education Agency

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Windjammer- San Luis

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Stephanie Lerner

During this presentation, counselors will delve into various school counseling supports that exist in different teams throughout the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Participants will explore a variety of resources that can help them effectively support students through school counseling.

72. TSCA Presents: You can earn a CREST!

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Squarerigger- San Luis

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Errin French & Heather DeGroot

In this session we will walk participants through the CREST award application process. The CREST honors comprehensive school counseling programs that serve student needs and make a difference in student outcomes! The CREST is fully aligned with the Texas Model and will help you advocate for your program. 

73. How to Keep Swimming Even in the Riptides

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Spinnaker- San Luis

Topic: Leadership, Advocacy, and Professional Issues

Presenter(s): Danielle Hall, Krystal Kuban, & Michele New

This presentation will address counselor burnout through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies that will enhance your resilience and well-being. This approach equips school counselors with practical tools to manage stress, improve self-care, and sustain professional effectiveness, ultimately benefiting counselors, students, families, staff, and all stakeholders.

74. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Empowering School Counselors to Embrace Their Impact

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Ballroom AB- San Luis

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Janis Roberson & Adeli Minet Cortez

Counselors' expertise in fostering students' social-emotional growth is usually unparalleled among campus staff. Yet, many counselors feel powerless to effect change and advocate for themselves. You are NOT powerless? embrace your influence! Overcome imposter syndrome by joining us for tips on guidance lessons, interventions, and informal assessments.

75. It's Me. Hi! I'm dysregulated. It's Me!

Time: 8:00-9:30am

Room: Ballroom CD- San Luis

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Jessica Campbell

A Swiftie inspired look into polyvagal theory and how our autonomic nervous and it's neuroception affects our ability to 'shake it off' and how we need to 'calm down' to 'bejewel' our emotion regulation skills for ourselves and those we serve.

Tuesday General Session

Time: 10:00-11:30am

Room: Exhibit Hall B

Topic: TBD

Presenter(s): TBD

76. Program Pending

77. Back to Basics: Reality Therapy and the 3 Rs.

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Grand Ballroom A

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Mary Mayorga, Bianca Goodrum, & Melissa Brennan

Reality Therapy in the school is not unusual. Generally, choices and consequences are the mainstay when implementing Reality Therapy. School counselors are certainly familiar with it, but is there also an awareness of the three Rs associated with RT? Come and find out!

78. TSCA Presents: CREST Winner Panel

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Grand Ballroom B

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Errin French & Marcie Warner

In this session we will feature the CREST success stories from some of our winning submissions. Successful school counselors will share their tips and strategies for collecting data, working with stakeholders, and advocating for their programs.

79. Movement Matters: How P.A.U.S.E Enhances Cognitive Growth and Emotional Well-Being

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Grand Ballroom C

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Denise Toro

Unlock the power of movement with the P.A.U.S.E framework, boosting cognitive growth and emotional well-being. Discover strategies for school counselors to energize students, promote brain development, and enhance emotional regulation. Transform your support approach with dynamic tools for an inclusive, engaging environment-and share these tools campus-wide for school-wide implementation.

80. Fidgets, Flowers, and Fun: Multisensory Techniques for School Counselors

*RECORDED

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Galleon I

Topic: Guidance and Personal Skills Instruction

Presenter(s): Jeff Cranmore & Pamala Adams

When working with dysregulated students, school counselors may need to use non-traditional methods. This session covers tactile, art-based, and nature based approaches to engage students. Whether the use of fidgets, to school gardens, to creative arts, these techniques will add to a school counselor's 'toolbox' when helping students.

81. From Punishment to Positive Outcomes: Redefining School Discipline Practices

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Galleon II

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Delarious Stewart

Transform school discipline with evidence-based strategies promoting positive behavior and SEL. Ideal for counselors, educators, and administrators, this session offers tools to reduce suspensions and enhance school climate, fostering supportive, equitable learning environments.

82. Feeling’s Wheel as a Therapeutic Tool

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Galleon III

Topic: Counseling Theory & Practice

Presenter(s): Michael Banta

Join us for an interactive workshop on using the feeling's wheel in school counseling. Learn to enhance emotional awareness, communication, and granularity with students. Explore practical applications and case studies. Gain skills in emotion identification and facilitating emotional exploration.

83. After The Trauma

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Schooner

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Jill Reithmayer

Trauma events have increased both in frequency & intensity with modern media bringing it directly into our homes. We begin to absorb/resolve one trauma, & the next occurs.  The impact of cumulative & generational trauma can be overwhelming.  The only healthy way 'out' of trauma is 'through' it.

84. Transitions or Traps?:  Aftercare for Students in Alternative Schools

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Clipper

Topic: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Design & Management

Presenter(s): Jummy Akinyode

Are students trapped in a cycle to return to alternative schools by gaps in transition protocols? We will dive into assessing the strengths and weaknesses of current aftercare services to support students. We will pilot new aftercare plans and discuss how build collaborative relationships with home campuses.

85. Enhancing Competency and Preparedness in Mental Health Professionals for Treating Race-Based Trauma

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Spinnaker

Topic: Diversity and Multicultural Issues

Presenter(s): Cecily Batiste Dawson

Explore essential competencies for treating race-based trauma in Black Americans in the South. This session provides strategies for mental health professionals to assess and enhance their practices, ensuring effective, culturally competent care.

86. Human Trafficking in Schools - What Every School Counselor Needs to Know

Time: 12:00-1:30pm

Room: Elissa- San Luis

Topic: Responsive Services (Preventative, Remedial, & Crisis)

Presenter(s): Dr. Katariina Rosenblatt

1 in 3 middle schoolers and 1 in 9 high schoolers are at risk of recruitment into sex trafficking, 30% are boys & LGBTQ+.

Learn the signs of trafficking and how to connect with exploited youth. Incorporate wellness and create a Traffick Free School Zone.

Recorded Only

90-minute Program

87. Brain Love: Innovative Brain-Based Strategies that Teach Peace and Decrease Behavior Referrals

**RECORDED ONLY**

Topic: Behavioral Interventions

Presenter(s): Lyndsay Morris

This interactive session provides the blueprint for not only teaching self-regulation, but also creating spaces that promote self-regulation. Learn how schools are experiencing 75-90% reduction in behavior referrals through simple trauma-informed practices for Tier 1, 2, and 3.

Pre-registration Conference Pricing

TCA Members - $210.00 USD

Non TCA Member - $279.00 USD

Pre-registration + 1 Year TCA Professional Membership - $390.00 USD (includes Professional membership)

Pre-registration + 1 Year TCA New Professional Membership - $300.00 USD (includes New Professional membership)

Pre-registration + 1 Year TCA Student Membership - $290.00 USD (includes Student membership)

Pre-registration + 1 Year TCA Retired Membership - $290.00 USD (includes Retired membership)

Single Day Registration

Monday only $160.00 USD

Tuesday only $160.00 USD

Learning Institute Only - *In-person only

$150 USD - Sunday 2/2/2025

10:30am - 5:30pm 

Become a TCA Member