What should the school counselor's first course of action be when Kevin reports thoughts of self-harm and a diagnosis of bipolar disorder?

When a student like Kevin reports thoughts of self-harm, it is crucial that the school counselor takes immediate and responsible steps to ensure the student's safety and well-being. Providing Kevin's parents with a list of referrals and having them sign a release-of-information form is a vital first course of action for several reasons.

First, involving the parents or guardians is essential when a minor is exhibiting signs of self-harm. Parents need to be made aware of the situation so they can provide appropriate support and monitoring at home. Secondly, a release-of-information form allows for better collaboration between the school and mental health professionals. This aids in ensuring that Kevin receives the necessary assessment and treatment, as the mental health professionals can then communicate with the counselor about Kevin's needs and progress.

Additionally, referring Kevin to mental health services ensures that he receives professional help tailored to his situation, given his diagnosis of bipolar disorder. It is critical to act promptly in cases of self-harm to mitigate risk and to ensure that he has access to therapeutic resources that can properly address his mental health challenges.

Other options, while they may offer support or coping strategies, do not prioritize immediate safety and effective intervention in the same way. Engaging in individual counseling sessions without a thorough safety assessment may also