About Elizabeth Hamilton Expertise I can answer questions about IEP process and procedures, parental rights as related to special education, the school`s roles and responsibilities to special education students as well as other special education topics.
Question Guidance counselors have stated to me that they have been told not to put Counseling as a
Related Service on the IEP because it is a legal document and they are held accountable for it. Some have stated this in front of parents during the actual IEP meeting. When I went to the director with this information, he said he was aware of it, and that the Assistant Superintendent (who is over the Counseling people) is the one telling them this and there's nothing he can do about it.
Is this true, or legal?
Answer Hi Pat,
If the committee determines that counseling is needed as a related service, then it has be written into the IEP.
The decision whether to include or not to include counseling as a related service is not up to the counselor or the Assistant Superintendent. It is up to the committee. Counselors cannot refuse to add their services on the IEP. Yes, it is true that if they are written in as a related service, then they must provide services as prescribed by the IEP and they become responsible for their area just like any other service provider.
It is true that there are counselors who do not wish to add their services to IEPs. However, if the committee decides that it is a needed service, then it must be added. If the counselor refuses, then you can call for mediation or file for due process.
The director is also not powerless. He can write a formal letter to the Assistant Superintendent stating his concerns and informing him that the IEPs are not IDEA compliant due to his derective. This letter could be attached to all IEPs.
When counseling is added as a service make sure that there are goals and objectives for the services. Also, specify on the IEP how often and how long the counseling sessions will be.
I hope this information has been helpful. Please feel free to write again.
