Is it okay for a school counselor to suggest meds without asking parents?

Education Forums
1

Hey everyone, quick question. My kid goes to a private school, and their counselor asked him if he’d ever consider taking medication. The thing is, they don’t know his medical history, haven’t met me, and don’t even know if he’s diagnosed with anything. Is that normal? Anyone else had this happen?

2

That’s super weird. Did the school mention anything in their policies about what counselors are allowed to discuss?

3

Skylar said:
That’s super weird. Did the school mention anything in their policies about what counselors are allowed to discuss?

Nope, nothing that specific. Just the usual stuff about student support services. This feels like it crossed a line.

4

Skylar said:
That’s super weird. Did the school mention anything in their policies about what counselors are allowed to discuss?

Definitely crossed a line. I’d ask them directly about what their process is.

5

Did your kid say anything about wanting to try meds? Maybe they were responding to him?

6

Mason said:
Did your kid say anything about wanting to try meds? Maybe they were responding to him?

Nope, nothing like that. He was just meeting her about some accommodations he gets. Totally random question from her.

7

Private schools usually have their own rules, but they should still loop in parents for something like this. Maybe check if they have a handbook?

8

Cade said:
Private schools usually have their own rules, but they should still loop in parents for something like this. Maybe check if they have a handbook?

Good idea. A lot of times schools try to stick to their guidelines, but this sounds off.

9

Wait, what’s SSP? I don’t think I’ve heard of that before.

10

Briar said:
Wait, what’s SSP? I don’t think I’ve heard of that before.

Oh, it’s their Student Support Program. Basically, the counselor is supposed to help with accommodations and stuff like that.

11

Briar said:
Wait, what’s SSP? I don’t think I’ve heard of that before.

Ah, got it. Still, sounds like they’re going beyond what they should be doing.

12

They can’t suggest meds without knowing the full picture. You’re right to flag this.

13

West said:
They can’t suggest meds without knowing the full picture. You’re right to flag this.

Yeah, I’ve already asked that she not meet with him alone until we have his eval next month. Just feels inappropriate.