Online Counseling: A Convenient Option for Busy Parents Online counseling offers a convenient and accessible option for busy parents to reach out for help when it comes to parenting and their well-being. The reason we offer this service is because raising resilient healthy kids is the hardest job a parent has to do. We believe that it should not be done alone. We believe that one way we can me it easier is through having our online team here to provides parents insight and a healthy outlet to discuss concerns. As a busy parent, finding the time to prioritize your own mental health and well-being can be a challenge. Between work, household responsibilities, and taking care of your children, it's easy to put your own needs on the back burner. However, taking care of yourself is crucial in order to be the best parent you can be. That's where online counseling can be a game-changer. GR8COUNSEL Online counseling offers a convenient and accessible option for busy parents who may not have the time to attend in-person counseling sessions. With just a laptop or smartphone and an internet connection, you can connect with a professional counselor from the comfort of your office or home to address various concerns that busy professionals who are juggling work and parenthood. Here are some common parenting concerns that GR8COUNSEL focuses on with our parents: 1. Time Management: Busy professionals often struggle with finding a balance between work and family life. GR8COUNSEL can provide strategies and tips on effective time management, helping parents prioritize their responsibilities, kids, and create a healthy work-life balance. 2. Parent-Child Communication: Effective communication with children is crucial for building strong relationships. GR8COUNSEL can offer guidance on age-appropriate communication techniques, active listening skills, and fostering open and honest conversations with children. 3. Behavior Management: Parents may face challenges in managing their children's behavior, such as tantrums, defiance, or sibling conflicts. GR8COUNSEL can provide strategies for setting boundaries, positive reinforcement techniques, and addressing challenging behaviors in a constructive manner. 4. Emotional Well-being: Busy professionals may worry about their child's emotional well-being and how to support their mental health. GR8COUNSEL can offer resources on promoting resilience, stress management, and providing a nurturing and supportive environment for children. 5. Academic Support: GR8COUNSEL understands that academic success is important to parents. They can provide guidance on supporting children's education, including homework routines, study skills, and strategies for fostering a love of learning. 6. Parenting Self-Care: GR8COUNSEL recognizes the importance of self-care for parents. They can provide tips on self-care practices, stress reduction techniques, and maintaining personal well-being while juggling professional and parenting responsibilities. Here are some reasons why online counseling may be the perfect fit for you: 1. Flexibility: Online counseling allows you to schedule sessions at a time that works best for you. Whether it's during your lunch break, after the kids are in bed, or even on weekends, you have the flexibility to choose a time that fits into your busy schedule. 2. Convenience: No need to worry about commuting to a counseling office or finding childcare during your session. With online counseling, you can simply log in to your session from wherever you are, saving you time and eliminating the stress of logistics. 3. Privacy: If you're concerned about running into someone you know at a counseling office, online counseling provides a level of privacy and anonymity. You can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and concerns without worrying about who might see you. 4. Cost-effective: Online counseling can be a more affordable option compared to in-person sessions. Additionally, many insurance plans now cover online counseling, making it even more accessible for busy parents. Tips for Making the Most of Online Counseling: 1. Create a quiet and comfortable space: Find a quiet area in your home or office where you can have privacy and won't be interrupted during your session. Set up a comfortable chair and ensure good lighting to create a conducive environment for your counseling session. 2. Be present and engaged: Treat your online counseling session just like you would an in-person session. Put away distractions such as your phone or other devices and give your full attention to the session. Engage actively with your counselor and be open to their guidance and support. 3. Take advantage of resources: Online counseling platforms often provide additional resources such as worksheets, articles, and videos that can supplement your counseling sessions. Take advantage of these resources to further enhance your personal growth and development. 4. Practice self-care: In addition to counseling, make sure to prioritize self-care in your daily routine. Take time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, whether it's going for a walk, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby. Taking care of yourself will ultimately benefit both you and your children.

The Role of Physical Fitness in Child Development Physical fitness is not just about having a healthy body; it also plays a crucial role in the overall development of children. At GR8COUNSEL, we understand the importance of physical fitness in raising resilient and successful kids. That's why we offer group physical fitness programming for kids after school, providing a fun and engaging way for children to stay active. Regular physical activity has numerous benefits for children. It helps in the development of strong muscles and bones, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances motor skills. By participating in various activities and exercises, children can improve their strength, endurance, coordination, and flexibility. But the benefits of physical fitness go beyond just physical health. Engaging in physical activities also has a positive impact on a child's mental and emotional well-being. It helps in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and improves mood and self-esteem. Physical fitness promotes better sleep patterns, increases focus and concentration, and enhances cognitive abilities. At GR8COUNSEL, we believe in a holistic approach to child development. That's why we combine counseling services with group physical fitness programming. By addressing the social, emotional, and physical needs of children, we aim to provide comprehensive support for their overall well-being. Our founder, Gina Great, brings a unique perspective to our services with her military background and expertise in school counseling and working with ADHD. This combination of experience sets GR8COUNSEL apart from other counseling services, allowing us to provide specialized support for children facing various challenges. We understand that parents are busy and may not have enough time to be home with their kids. That's why we offer both in-person and online counseling sessions, making our services accessible and convenient for busy parents. We also accept insurance to ensure that our services are available to a wider range of families. At GR8COUNSEL, our goal is to assist parents in instilling a love of learning and helping them deal with social and emotional concerns. We believe that by combining counseling services with physical fitness programming, we can make a positive impact on your child's development. Join us at GR8COUNSEL and let us help you raise highly resilient and successful kids. Together, we can create a supportive environment that nurtures your child's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist your family.

Using Insurance to Cover Counseling Costs: What You Need to Know At GR8COUNSEL, we understand that seeking counseling services can be a financial burden for many families. That's why we are committed to making our services accessible and affordable. One way we do this is by accepting insurance to cover counseling costs. In this blog post, we will explain what you need to know about using insurance to cover counseling expenses. 1. Check your insurance coverage: Before scheduling a counseling session, it's important to check your insurance coverage. Contact your insurance provider and inquire about mental health benefits. Ask about the specific services that are covered, the amount of coverage, and any limitations or restrictions. 2. Understand your deductible: Most insurance plans have a deductible, which is the amount you need to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Make sure you know what your deductible is and how much you have already paid towards it. This will give you a clear idea of how much you will be responsible for paying for counseling services. 3. In-network vs. out-of-network providers: Insurance plans often have a network of preferred providers. These are called in-network providers, and they have agreed-upon rates with the insurance company. If you choose an in-network provider, your insurance will typically cover a larger portion of the counseling costs. However, if you prefer to see an out-of-network provider, your insurance may still provide some coverage, but it may be at a lower percentage. 4. Pre-authorization: Some insurance plans require pre-authorization before they will cover counseling services. This means you need to get approval from your insurance company before starting therapy. Make sure to check if pre-authorization is required and follow the necessary steps to obtain it. 5. Co-pays and co-insurance: Even with insurance coverage, you may still be responsible for paying a portion of the counseling costs. This can come in the form of co-pays or co-insurance. A co-pay is a fixed amount you pay for each session, while co-insurance is a percentage of the total cost. Familiarize yourself with your insurance plan's co-pay or co-insurance requirements. 6. Keep track of your sessions: It's important to keep track of the number of counseling sessions you have attended and the amount you have paid. This will help you stay within your insurance coverage limits and ensure accurate billing. 7. Online counseling: GR8COUNSEL offers both in-person and online counseling sessions. If you prefer online counseling, check with your insurance provider to see if they cover telehealth services. Many insurance plans have expanded their coverage for virtual visits, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. At GR8COUNSEL, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality counseling services. By understanding your insurance coverage and utilizing it effectively, you can make counseling more affordable for you and your family. If you have any questions or need assistance navigating the insurance process, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Managing ADHD in School-Aged Children As a parent, managing ADHD in your school-aged child can be a challenging task. It's important to remember that every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. However, there are some strategies and tips that can help you navigate this journey and support your child's success. At GR8COUNSEL, we specialize in working with ADHD and have seen great results using a combination of counseling, education, and physical fitness programming. Here are some examples, thoughts, and tips to help you manage ADHD in your school-aged child: 1. Establish a routine: Children with ADHD thrive on structure and routine. Create a daily schedule that includes specific times for homework, meals, physical activity, and relaxation. Stick to this routine as much as possible to provide a sense of stability and predictability for your child. 2. Break tasks into smaller steps: Large tasks can be overwhelming for children with ADHD. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. This will help your child stay focused and motivated, as they can see progress with each completed step. 3. Use visual aids: Visual aids, such as charts, calendars, and checklists, can be incredibly helpful for children with ADHD. Use these tools to visually represent tasks, deadlines, and expectations. This will provide your child with a visual reminder and help them stay organized. 4. Provide clear and concise instructions: Children with ADHD often struggle with following multi-step instructions. Keep your instructions clear, concise, and to the point. Use simple language and repeat important information if necessary. 5. Encourage physical activity: Physical activity is a great way to help children with ADHD release excess energy and improve focus. At GR8COUNSEL, we offer group physical fitness programming for kids after school. Consider enrolling your child in a sports team, dance class, or martial arts program to help them channel their energy in a positive way. 6. Celebrate small victories: Children with ADHD may face challenges and setbacks along the way. It's important to celebrate their small victories and accomplishments. Recognize their efforts and progress, no matter how small, to boost their self-esteem and motivation. 7. Seek professional help: If you're struggling to manage your child's ADHD on your own, don't hesitate to seek professional help. At GR8COUNSEL, we offer both in-person and online counseling sessions. Our founder, Gina Great, specializes in school counseling and working with ADHD. With her military background, she brings a unique perspective to counseling that sets GR8COUNSEL apart from other services. Managing ADHD in school-aged children can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, your child can thrive. Remember to be patient, understanding, and flexible as you navigate this journey together. At GR8COUNSEL, we're here to assist you in raising highly resilient and successful kids. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your family.

The Impact of Military Background on Counseling Approach At GR8COUNSEL, we understand the unique impact that a military background can have on counseling approaches. Our founder, Gina Great, brings her military experience, along with her specialization in school counseling and working with ADHD, to provide a unique and effective counseling service for parents and their children. In this blog post, we will explore how a military background can influence counseling techniques and strategies, ultimately benefiting families. 1. Structure and Discipline: One of the key aspects of a military background is the emphasis on structure and discipline. This can be incredibly beneficial in counseling, as it provides a framework for setting goals and establishing routines. Military experience teaches individuals how to create and maintain structure, which can be particularly helpful for children with ADHD or other behavioral challenges. By implementing structure and discipline in counseling sessions, GR8COUNSEL can help children develop self-control and improve their ability to focus. 2. Resilience and Adaptability: Military personnel are trained to be resilient and adaptable in the face of challenges. This mindset can be invaluable in counseling, as it helps individuals and families navigate difficult situations and overcome obstacles. GR8COUNSEL utilizes this resilience and adaptability to help parents and children develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills. By teaching clients how to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to new circumstances, GR8COUNSEL empowers families to thrive in the face of adversity. 3. Teamwork and Collaboration: The military places a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. This skillset translates well into counseling, as it allows GR8COUNSEL to work closely with parents and children to achieve shared goals. By fostering a collaborative approach, GR8COUNSEL ensures that all parties are actively involved in the counseling process. This not only strengthens the therapeutic relationship but also increases the likelihood of successful outcomes. 4. Attention to Detail: Military personnel are trained to pay attention to detail, as even the smallest oversight can have significant consequences. This attention to detail is invaluable in counseling, as it allows GR8COUNSEL to identify and address underlying issues that may be contributing to a child's social and emotional concerns. By thoroughly assessing each client's unique needs and circumstances, GR8COUNSEL can provide tailored counseling strategies that address the root causes of their challenges. In conclusion, a military background can have a profound impact on counseling approaches. At GR8COUNSEL, our founder's military experience, combined with her specialization in school counseling and working with ADHD, sets us apart from other counseling services. By leveraging the skills and values instilled by a military background, GR8COUNSEL is able to provide effective and comprehensive counseling services for parents and their children. Whether it's implementing structure and discipline, fostering resilience and adaptability, promoting teamwork and collaboration, or paying attention to detail, GR8COUNSEL is dedicated to helping families raise highly resilient and successful kids.

Building Resilience in Children: Strategies for Parents As parents, we all want our children to grow up to be resilient and successful individuals. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks, and it is a crucial skill that can help children navigate through life's ups and downs. At GR8COUNSEL, we understand the importance of building resilience in children, and we want to share some strategies that can help parents in this process. 1. Encourage a Growth Mindset: Teach your child to embrace challenges and view them as opportunities for growth. Help them understand that failure is a part of learning and that their abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Praise their efforts and progress, rather than just their achievements. 2. Foster Emotional Intelligence: Help your child develop emotional intelligence by teaching them to identify and manage their emotions. Encourage open communication and provide a safe space for them to express their feelings. Teach them problem-solving skills and help them develop empathy towards others. 3. Promote Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Teach your child healthy ways to cope with stress and adversity. Encourage them to engage in physical activities like sports or yoga, which can help them release pent-up energy and reduce stress. Encourage them to express themselves through creative outlets like painting, playing a musical instrument, or writing in a journal. 4. Teach Problem-Solving Skills: Help your child develop problem-solving skills by involving them in decision-making processes. Encourage them to think critically and come up with solutions to their own problems. Offer guidance and support, but allow them to take ownership of their decisions. 5. Build a Supportive Network: Surround your child with positive role models and a supportive network of family and friends. Encourage them to build strong relationships and develop a sense of belonging. Help them understand the importance of teamwork and cooperation. 6. Model Resilience: Children learn by observing their parents, so it's essential to model resilience in your own life. Show them how you handle challenges and setbacks with a positive attitude and determination. Share stories of your own experiences and how you overcame obstacles. 7. Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you notice persistent signs of emotional distress or if your child is struggling with specific issues like ADHD, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A counselor like Gina Great at GR8COUNSEL can provide the necessary guidance and support to help your child build resilience. Remember, building resilience is a lifelong process, and it requires patience and consistency. By implementing these strategies and providing a nurturing environment, you can help your child develop the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. At GR8COUNSEL, we are here to support you on this journey.

Tips for Balancing Work and Parenting Being a working parent can be a challenging juggling act. Balancing the demands of your career with the needs of your children requires careful planning and organization. Here are some tips to help you find that delicate balance: 1. Set Priorities: Determine what is most important to you and your family. Make a list of your top priorities and use it as a guide when making decisions about work and parenting. This will help you focus on what truly matters and avoid getting overwhelmed by less important tasks. 2. Create a Schedule: Establish a daily or weekly schedule that includes dedicated time for work, family, and self-care. Having a structured routine will help you stay organized and ensure that you are giving enough attention to both your job and your children. Be sure to include breaks and downtime for yourself as well. 3. Communicate with Your Employer: Open and honest communication with your employer is key. Let them know about your responsibilities as a parent and discuss any flexible work options that may be available. This could include working from home, adjusting your hours, or taking advantage of parental leave policies. Finding a work arrangement that suits both your needs and your employer's can greatly reduce stress and make balancing work and parenting more manageable. 4. Delegate and Ask for Help: Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether it's hiring a babysitter, relying on family members, or enlisting the support of other parents, having a strong support system is essential. Delegate tasks at work when possible and don't hesitate to ask for assistance when you need it. Remember, you don't have to do it all on your own. 5. Be Present: When you are with your children, make a conscious effort to be fully present. Put away distractions like your phone or laptop and give your undivided attention to your kids. Quality time is more important than quantity, so make the most of the time you have together. 6. Take Care of Yourself: Self-care is crucial for maintaining balance in your life. Make sure to prioritize your own physical and mental well-being. This could include exercise, hobbies, relaxation techniques, or simply taking time for yourself. When you take care of yourself, you will be better equipped to handle the demands of work and parenting. 7. Embrace Imperfection: Remember that no one is perfect, and it's okay to make mistakes. Give yourself permission to let go of the guilt and strive for progress, not perfection. Be kind to yourself and celebrate the small victories along the way. Balancing work and parenting is a constant challenge, but with some planning, organization, and self-care, it is possible to find harmony between your professional and personal life. Remember, you are doing the best you can, and that is more than enough.

The Benefits of Group Counseling for Kids Image Description: A group of diverse children sitting in a circle, engaged in a counseling session led by a professional counselor. They are actively participating in discussions and activities, showing support and empathy towards each other. The counselor is facilitating the session, providing guidance and encouragement. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, creating a safe space for the children to express themselves and build connections with their peers. Group counseling can be a highly effective form of therapy for kids, providing them with a safe and supportive environment to express their thoughts and feelings, learn new skills, and build connections with their peers. Here are some of the benefits that group counseling can offer: 1. Peer Support: Group counseling allows children to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges or emotions. This sense of belonging and understanding can provide a powerful source of support and validation. Kids can learn from each other's experiences, share coping strategies, and offer empathy and encouragement. 2. Social Skills Development: Group counseling provides a structured setting for children to practice and develop their social skills. They learn how to communicate effectively, listen actively, and show empathy towards others. Through group activities and discussions, they can improve their ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. 3. Increased Self-Awareness: In a group setting, children have the opportunity to gain a better understanding of themselves and their emotions. Through discussions and feedback from their peers and the counselor, they can gain insights into their own thoughts, behaviors, and patterns. This self-awareness can be a valuable tool for personal growth and development. 4. Emotional Regulation: Group counseling helps children learn how to manage and regulate their emotions in a healthy way. They can practice expressing their feelings, learn coping strategies, and receive feedback and support from their peers. This can be particularly beneficial for kids who struggle with emotional regulation, such as those with ADHD or anxiety. 5. Building Resilience: Group counseling can help children develop resilience by providing them with a safe space to face challenges and setbacks. They can learn how to bounce back from difficult situations, develop problem-solving skills, and build confidence in their ability to overcome obstacles. 6. Normalizing Experiences: Group counseling can help children realize that they are not alone in their struggles. By hearing others share similar experiences, they can gain a sense of normalcy and reduce feelings of isolation or shame. This can be particularly helpful for kids who may feel different or misunderstood. In conclusion, group counseling can offer numerous benefits for kids, including peer support, social skills development, increased self-awareness, emotional regulation, building resilience, and normalizing experiences. If you feel that your child could benefit from group counseling, consider reaching out to a professional counselor or therapist who specializes in working with children. It can be a valuable and transformative experience for your child's emotional well-being and personal growth.

As parents, we all want our children to thrive in school and reach their full potential. But sometimes, it can be challenging to know how to best support them in their academic journey. That's where GR8COUNSEL comes in. With their expertise in school counseling and working with ADHD, they have valuable tips and strategies to help your child succeed. Here are some ways you can support your child's academic success: 1. Create a positive learning environment at home: Set up a designated study area for your child, free from distractions. Make sure they have all the necessary materials and resources they need to complete their homework and assignments. Encourage a routine and schedule for studying, so they develop good study habits. 2. Foster a love of learning: Help your child develop a curiosity and passion for learning. Encourage them to explore their interests and pursue activities that they enjoy. Provide opportunities for them to engage in hands-on learning experiences, such as visiting museums or participating in educational programs. Show enthusiasm for their achievements and celebrate their progress. 3. Address social and emotional concerns: School can be a challenging environment for children, and it's important to address any social or emotional concerns they may have. Talk to your child about their experiences at school and listen to their concerns. If necessary, seek support from professionals like GR8COUNSEL who specialize in working with children and can provide guidance and strategies to help your child navigate these challenges. 4. Take advantage of group physical fitness programming: Physical fitness is not only important for your child's physical health but also for their mental well-being and academic performance. GR8COUNSEL offers group physical fitness programming for kids after school, which can help your child develop healthy habits and improve their focus and concentration in the classroom. Encourage your child to participate in these programs and make physical activity a regular part of their routine. 5. Utilize counseling services: If your child is facing specific challenges or needs additional support, consider utilizing counseling services like those offered by GR8COUNSEL. Their expertise in school counseling and working with ADHD can provide valuable insights and strategies to help your child overcome obstacles and thrive academically. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's important to tailor your approach to your child's individual needs and strengths. With the support of GR8COUNSEL and your dedication as a parent, you can help your child thrive in school and set them up for success in the future.

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Children As parents, we all want our children to grow up to be happy, successful, and well-adjusted individuals. While academic achievements and physical health are important, there is another crucial aspect of development that often gets overlooked - emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It plays a significant role in our overall well-being and success in life. At GR8COUNSEL, we understand the importance of emotional intelligence in children and strive to help parents in nurturing this essential skill. Our founder, Gina Great, with her military background and expertise in school counseling and ADHD, brings a unique perspective to the table. We offer individual counseling sessions, group programs, and physical fitness activities for kids after school, all aimed at promoting emotional intelligence and resilience. So why is emotional intelligence so important for children? Here are a few reasons: 1. Better self-awareness: Emotional intelligence helps children develop a strong sense of self-awareness. They become more in tune with their own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, which allows them to better understand themselves and their needs. 2. Improved social skills: Children with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to navigate social situations. They can recognize and understand the emotions of others, which helps them build stronger relationships and communicate effectively. 3. Enhanced problem-solving abilities: Emotional intelligence enables children to think critically and make better decisions. They can identify and manage their emotions in challenging situations, which leads to more effective problem-solving and conflict resolution. 4. Increased empathy and compassion: Emotional intelligence fosters empathy and compassion in children. They develop a greater understanding and concern for the feelings and experiences of others, leading to more positive and meaningful relationships. 5. Better mental health: Emotional intelligence is closely linked to mental health and well-being. Children who are emotionally intelligent are more likely to have higher self-esteem, lower levels of stress and anxiety, and better overall mental health. So how can parents help develop emotional intelligence in their children? Here are a few tips: 1. Encourage emotional expression: Create a safe and supportive environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their emotions. Encourage them to talk about how they feel and validate their emotions. 2. Teach emotional vocabulary: Help your child expand their emotional vocabulary by teaching them different words to describe their feelings. This will enable them to better understand and communicate their emotions. 3. Model emotional intelligence: Children learn by observing, so be a positive role model for emotional intelligence. Show them how to manage your own emotions, resolve conflicts peacefully, and empathize with others. 4. Practice active listening: Take the time to actively listen to your child when they are expressing their emotions. Show genuine interest and empathy, and avoid dismissing or invalidating their feelings. 5. Foster problem-solving skills: Encourage your child to think critically and find solutions to their problems. Help them brainstorm ideas and guide them through the decision-making process. At GR8COUNSEL, we are here to support you in developing emotional intelligence in your children. Our counseling sessions and group programs provide a safe space for kids to explore their emotions and learn valuable skills. Whether it's in-person or online, we are committed to meeting parents where they are and helping them raise highly resilient and successful kids. Remember, emotional intelligence is a lifelong skill that will benefit your child in all aspects of their life. Start nurturing it today, and watch your child thrive!