SoundEd Spotlight: Julie Garcia

A Day in the Life of Online School Counseling Jobs

I have worked as a school counselor for over 10 years, much of my experience is in higher education, and most recently with PK-12 students as an in-school mental health provider with special populations. My approach is a problem-solving, solution-finding approach. 

Julie Garcia, MS.

School Counselor, PK-12

Serving AZ, TX, and OK students.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I like a full schedule, but I really work around my children’s elementary school schedule. I start at 7:00 AM, work until 8:30 AM, drive the kids to school, and then resume work from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM at the latest. I love being busy, as it means I can serve more students and reach more families.

What do you love about working with SoundEd?

I appreciate the fact that I feel valued and appreciated while working with SoundEd. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to partner with SoundEd. 

What are the pros of online direct therapy?

Students often feel more comfortable at home, with surroundings that are familiar, mom, pets, cozy blankets, favorite stuffed animals, all the good stuff that supports emotional regulation and can support students to help them work beyond things that are stressful and learn the skills necessary so when they need them, they have the skills readily available. I teach students coping skills when they are calm and don’t need them at the moment, and we practice so that during the moments when they do need regulation, they can pull from what they’ve learned and apply it. Environmental arrangement is a significant intervention, and when we can start in a place where students feel comfortable, the learning process increases and expands their repertoire.

Have you recommended SoundEd to any other therapists?  What do you say to them?

I have absolutely recommended SoundEd to other therapists, and I tell them about how I feel valued and am provided opportunities for growth.

Do you have a team of other therapists within SoundEd that you can work with to share ideas and resources?

Providers have support from SoundEd with training material and housing resources in place that is updated with needed content. Providers can connect with others within their discipline via chat rooms and resource classrooms that have been set up by SoundEd – thank you!

What activities have you discovered you now have more time for because of working from home and/or working fewer hours?

I have more time for family, and that is the driving force in everything I do. Managing my work schedule to fit my family’s schedule is everything to me and something I am truly grateful for.