School counselors play a vital role in supporting the academic, emotional, and social development of our children. A counselor’s work is ever-changing, which is why professional development opportunities and learning communities are so important. Often, school counselors operate as an island within their schools, working independently without a team of peers to collaborate with regularly. When we have the opportunity to connect and learn from one another, it enhances our practice and empowers us to advocate more effectively for our profession. Workshops like the annual Professional School Counselor Academy provide a valuable space for counselors to share real-time experiences and practical strategies that are making a difference for our students.
Region 7 will be hosting this year’s Professional School Counselor Academy on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM—a day dedicated to learning, connection, and inspiration for school counselors across the region.
This year’s event promises powerful insights and practical tools to support the mental health and well-being of students at all levels. We are especially excited to welcome our keynote speaker, Ginger Healy, MSW, LCSW, a nationally recognized expert in trauma-informed care.
Ginger Healy is a clinical social worker with nearly 30 years of experience. Over the course of her career, she has served as a child abuse investigator, hospital social worker, and school therapist. For 15 years, she worked as the Social Services Supervisor at an international adoption agency, traveling the world to support orphanages and deepen her understanding of attachment and trauma in children.
Currently, Ginger serves as the Program Director for the Attachment and Trauma Network, where she co-anchors the podcast Regulated & Relational. She speaks nationally on trauma-informed schools, therapeutic parenting, and community engagement.
After the keynote, we will feature a series of breakout sessions led by experienced counselors from across Region 7. These sessions will offer practical, hands-on strategies and innovative ideas you can bring back to your campus:
- Tina Hilton, Martin's Mill ISD
“Storytime with Purpose: Using Children’s Books in Guidance Lessons”
Discover how to use picture books as powerful tools for teaching social-emotional learning at all elementary grade levels. - Samantha Burrow & Misti Smith, West Sabine ISD
“Community Care in Action: Planning a Mental Health & Wellness Fair”
Learn how to create partnerships and organize a mental health fair that serves students, families, and the broader community. - Vanessa Watkins, Harmony ISD
“Building Connections: Using LEGOs in Group Counseling with Middle Schoolers”
Explore how Lego-based activities can be used effectively in group and individual sessions with middle-grade students to encourage expression and connection. - Lauri Anderson, Counseling Director, Tyler ISD
“TBRI for Trauma-Informed Classrooms”
Gain insight into implementing trauma-informed strategies rooted in trust and relationship-building to better support student needs.
Register for Workshop #356930 Professional School Counselor Academy. Don’t miss this opportunity for inspiration, learning, and collaboration with your peers!
