Faith Based Counseling Supporting Holistic Student Growth

Raina Foote, Director of Counseling, Rejoice Christian Schools

Raina Foote earned a Master of Education in School Counseling in 2007 and began her career at a public elementary school. She later joined Rejoice Christian School, progressing from preschool counselor to middle/high school counselor. Now Counseling Director, she integrates faith and compassion to support student growth across all grade levels.

As a counselor in a Christian school, my professional philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that every student is created in the image of God, endowed with inherent dignity, purpose, and potential. I view counseling as a ministry of presence and service, an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love through compassionate support, wise guidance, and faithful stewardship of the emotional, academic and spiritual development of each student.

While grounded in a biblical worldview, I recognize and honor the diversity within the body of Christ and the broader human experience. I am committed to creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where students feel safe to explore their thoughts and struggles. 

I integrate faith and counseling with intention; using scripture, prayer and biblical principles. I aim to point students toward hope, healing and identity in Christ while equipping them with the skills to navigate life’s challenges with courage and integrity. 

To ensure students receive the emotional and psychological support they need, I begin by creating a safe and welcoming environment where trust is built through consistent presence, active listening and grace-filled relationships. I collaborate closely with teachers, parents and administrators to identify students who may be facing emotional challenges, intervening early through one-on-one counseling, small groups and when necessary, referrals to trusted Christian mental health professionals.

I also equip students with practical tools for managing anxiety, stress, peer conflict and other challenges, while promoting resilience, emotional regulation and spiritual growth. Partnering with families is a key part of my approach and I keep open lines of communication to ensure students receive consistent support both at school and at home. 

I stay grounded by remaining rooted in my faith, practicing self-awareness, and maintaining intentional rhythms of rest, prayer and reflection. In times of stress or uncertainty, I return to scripture and seek God’s wisdom and presence through prayer, which helps me respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally. I also prioritize healthy boundaries, self-care and ongoing personal development so I can remain present and effective for those I serve.

“I equip students with practical tools for managing anxiety, stress, peer conflict, and other challenges, while promoting resilience, emotional regulation, and spiritual growth”

I strive to respond to my team with calm, clarity and compassion even when situations are complex or high-pressure. I remind my team that while we are called to carry burdens with others, we are not called to carry them alone, we help each other and we can trust God with the outcomes. 

We use individual counseling, peer support groups and classroom guidance lessons tailored to specific developmental stages to support student needs. I also introduced our Student Mentor Program. For younger students, mentors provide positive role models who can offer guidance, encouragement and support; helping them build confidence, improve social skills and navigate academic and personal challenges. The one-on-one or small-group connection fosters a sense of belonging and safety, which can reduce anxiety and promote better school engagement. For older students, mentoring develops leadership, empathy and communication skills, while reinforcing their own knowledge and character growth. It also instills a sense of responsibility and purpose as they contribute to their school’s culture positively. On a broader level, mentoring programs strengthen community bonds, improve school climate and create a culture of care and support grounded in mutual respect and encouragement.

To address academic challenges, I work closely with teachers to implement early intervention strategies and coordinate personalized academic support plans. I also helped establish our after school academic support program.

We utilize our College and Career Fairs to expose students to a wide range of colleges, universities, vocational programs and career paths. This promotes informed decision-making by allowing students to ask questions directly to admissions counselors and industry professionals. Career fairs also encourage students to think practically about their future goals, motivating them to set academic and personal objectives. Students feel empowered to take proactive steps toward their futures with confidence and clarity.

Technology allows me to use digital tools like online assessments to efficiently identify students’ emotional and academic needs, providing timely insights that guide targeted interventions. Technology also enables flexible communication—through email or virtual meetings—making support more accessible, especially for students who may hesitate to seek help in person.

Additionally, I use digital resources such as videos, apps and interactive exercises to engage students in learning coping strategies, emotional regulation and spiritual growth in ways that resonate with their daily lives. Technology helps me track student progress over time, collaborate easily with teachers and parents and offer consistent care. Digital tools are used to complement counseling services rather than be a replacement for human connection.

To school counselors who want to create meaningful change in their schools, I would first encourage them to build strong relationships grounded in trust and empathy—with students, staff and families. Change happens most effectively when people feel heard and valued, so investing in authentic connections is essential. Secondly, I recommend being proactive and data-informed.

It’s also important to collaborate widely with teachers, administrators, parents and community partners because lasting change requires a team effort and shared vision. Counselors should advocate confidently for the social-emotional and mental health needs of students while balancing compassion with professionalism.

Finally, stay grounded in your values and self-care practices. Change work can be challenging and slow, but by leaning on your faith, purpose and personal resilience, you’ll sustain the passion and clarity needed to make a real difference. Remember that even small steps can have a ripple effect in creating a supportive, thriving school community.