A monster who makes big feelings feel a little less scary
The Counselor Monster is a warm and playful picture
book about a school counselor who helps children
feel safe, understood, and proud of who they are.
About the Book
Meet Adam and the counselor who never lets him feel alone
Adam meets the Counselor Monster on his first day of kindergarten. When he feels sad and misses his mom, she stays beside him. Soon he discovers that she is not scary at all.
She dances in the hallway, plays at recess, uses puppets, teaches mindful breathing, and introduces children to the Magnificent Brain. She helps them understand sadness, fear, and anger without shame. Most importantly, she reminds them that asking for help is brave and that every child has good parts worth celebrating.
What children can learn
Healthy ways to handle feelings
Simple ideas children can remember
The story introduces practical choices children can use when emotions feel intense.
When sadness feels heavy
Talk to someone who will listen. It is okay to cry, sit quietly, or ask for comfort.
When anger feels too big
Take deep breaths, squeeze something soft, move safely, take a break, or talk to a trusted grown-up.
When fear shows up
Name what feels frightening, find a safe person, and choose one small step that helps.
When the brain feels busy
Smell the flower. Pause. Cool the soup. Repeat slowly three times.
Made for connection, not perfection
Adults do not need to have every answer before talking with a child about feelings. Read the story, pause when something feels familiar, and let the child lead. Sometimes the most helpful response is simply, ‘I am here with you.’Her book, The Counselor Monster, grew directly out of this impactful work. It is lovingly dedicated to her husband, her daughters (Hannah and Sophia), and the very first kindergarten class that welcomed her back to elementary counseling. Lori’s ultimate hope is simple: that every child who reads her story feels safe turning to their school counselor, and ultimately walks away feeling a little more seen, secure, skilled, and loved.
Helpful conversation questions
Which part of the story felt most like you?
What helps you when you miss someone?
What are some safe ways to let anger out?
Who helps you feel safe at school?
What is one good part of yourself that you are proud of?
School and classroom use
A caring story for classrooms and counseling spaces
Use the book for classroom read-alouds, school counselor introductions, morning meetings, calm-down corners, library collections, and gentle conversations about asking for help.
Bring the Counselor Monster to your reading space
Share a story filled with giggles, comfort, and simple tools children can use when feelings get big.