Posted on October 25, 2002 at 12:38 p.m.

STORY:

With recent violent incidents like the sniper shootings in Maryland, the World Trade Center attacks and the anthrax scare, school counselors have had to expand their role from providing academic, social and career development to helping youngsters cope and survive in a dangerous world, says UAB school counseling expert Larry Tyson, Ph.D. N.C.C.

WHAT:

Those dangers include everything from child abductions and school shootings to threats of terrorism. “Counselors are teaching students how to keep themselves safe, how to protect themselves and be more aware of what’s happening around them,” Tyson said. “They’re teaching kids to be more assertive and not be ashamed of asking for help.”

Tyson encourages parents to seek advice from school counselors for suggestions on how to help their children deal with tough issues. “Counselors can be a great resource for locating parenting Web sites and other materials on how to talk with children about difficult topics.”

WHO:

Larry Tyson, Ph.D., N.C.C., is co-editor of the book, Critical Incidents in School Counseling, which examined various critical issues school counselors today often face, such as addiction, bullying, suicide and sexual harassment, and the decisions counselors must make. Tyson is also the program advisor of the UAB School Counseling Program and a clinical assistant professor in the UAB School of Education’s Department of Human Studies.

WHEN:

Tyson will be available beginning Monday, October 28.

CONTACT:

Gail Short, UAB Media Relations, (205) 934-8931 or gshort@uab.edu.