Counselor Consultation Circles
School Counselors support the success and wellbeing of each and every student at the school. The work of a school counselor is an ongoing journey full of impact and joy, as well as some challenges along the way.
ISCA Consultation Circles are designed to give international school counselors the connection, guidance, and reflective space they need to meet challenges with clarity and strengthen their practice.
Developed and facilitated by Linden’s team of metal health specialists, these small-group circles provide a confidential, collaborative environment where counselors can examine complex cases, exchange ideas, and celebrate successes. Linden facilitators bring deep experience in international school settings, ensuring conversations are anchored in authentic, real-world understanding.
How It Works
Over the course of a term, counselors build trust, broaden their perspectives, and brainstorm together as they address real time problems. Aligned with the ISCA Student Standards, we aim to promote consistent, student-centered practice across international school contexts. Counselors may shift groups between terms or pause participation when needed, offering flexibility for demanding schedules.
Each session includes:
- Gratitude Circle – A moment to acknowledge recent wins or meaningful school experiences.
- Case Presentations – 1-2 members share a current case or challenge from their school setting.
- Insight & Idea Sharing – The group contributes strategies, perspectives, and resources to support each presenter.
- Topic Spotlight – The facilitator introduces a relevant theme informed by group needs and aligned with the ISCA Student Standards, along with practical tools. Guest speakers may be invited to present.
- Closing Reflection – Key takeaways and curated resources to guide ongoing practice.
- Final Session – A look back at individual growth, shared learning, and progress across the term.
A certificate of attendance will be provided to counselors completing the term.
FAQs
Circles will be composed of five to eight international school counselors per group, who will remain together as a cohort for the 8 sessions.
Linden’s facilitators are experienced, culturally responsive counselors who bring deep insight into the realities of international schools and the unique needs of third-culture kids. Having worked both within international schools and in close partnership with them, they understand the complexities counselors face across diverse school communities. In each session, facilitators provide thoughtful guidance and foster dynamic, strength-based conversations—ensuring participants feel seen, supported, and re-energized in their work.
We are committed to protecting the confidentiality of all students. Participants will be required to sign confidentiality agreements before joining a group. We create a safe space for counselors to openly discuss their challenges in a supportive and confidential environment.
Register for the Counseling Consultation Circles by January 23, 2026 . Circles will start the 1st week of February .
The cost for ISCA Members is $400 and Non ISCA Members is $460. If you are interested in becoming an ISCA Member you can visit this page and receive more discounts on our events and offerings.
About Linden Global Learning & Support Services
Since 2015, Linden Global Learning & Support Services has been a trusted provider of educational and therapeutic support for international students and schools worldwide. Our international team includes counselors, academic coaches, speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, learning support specialists, behavior therapists, and educational psychologists. From our base in Berlin—the heart of Europe—we offer tailored services to promote the academic success and emotional well-being of all learners, wherever they are in the world.
Meet the Linden Facilitators
Noa Kanter, M.A is a Clinical Child Psychologist and holds the roles of Head of Counseling Services, Safeguarding Officer, and International School Crisis Support Team Lead at Linden Global Learning. Noa holds a Master’s degree in child clinical psychology from Bar-Ilan University and has several years of experience applying various therapeutic interventions in public health care clinics in Israel. Noa has also worked as a school psychologist, conducting psychoeducational assessments in the city of Holon, Israel. For the past 7 years, Noa has worked as a school and child psychologist focusing on supporting students from international schools. She has led multiple ISCA consultation circles and webinars for international school counselors around the world. Noa also leads crisis support groups for international school staff and families facing war and conflict in the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
Denise Granai, M.A, M.S, is a school psychologist and counselor with extensive international experience. Since 2004, she has worked across multiple countries, including the United States, Serbia (ISB), Egypt (CAC), the Netherlands (ISA), Thailand (NIST), and Bulgaria (AAS Sofia). Denise holds an M.A. in Educational Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and an M.S. in Dance and Movement Therapy from Lesley University.
She has supported students at all grade levels, often integrating mindfulness, creativity (movement, art, drama), and body-centered approaches into her counseling practice. Denise believes that teaching children how to establish healthy boundaries is a vital skill at any age—one that adults must also model consistently.
Oulaya Samhoun-Jawad is a counselor with a vast experience in international schools settings. Currently working in Milan, She earned her Master’s degree in School Counseling from the Lebanese American University, Beirut-Lebanon. She strongly believes that the social and emotional wellbeing of students impact their academics positively. Oulaya provides individual and group counseling sessions, focusing on social behavior, relational dynamics, emotional concerns, academic achievement, and community engagement. She has worked with students and families in crisis and provides grief counseling for students who have experienced trauma As a Child Protection and Safeguarding officer at her school, she has led teacher training and worked closely with counselors, educators and stakeholders to ensure that all students’ needs are met and all are treated with respect and dignity.
With Linden, Oulaya has led consultation circles for school counselors around the world. Oulaya also led Lindens’ support for a group of young adults who experienced extreme adversity as they move to university, supporting them with the challenges these transitions hold and empowering them to find their strengths resilience.
Lina Paumgarten is a School Counselor specializing in Social-Emotional Learning, mental health, and mindfulness. She holds a BSc in Psychology from the University of York, a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver, and a Master of Advanced Studies in Health and Fitness from the Sport University of Salzburg.
With 18 years of experience in international schools, Lina has worked as a High School Counselor, Wellness Coordinator, and Mindfulness Instructor. She supports students, staff, and families in developing emotional intelligence, resilience, and mental wellness, with a focus on cross-cultural transitions.
As a Third Culture Kid, Lina brings a global perspective to her counseling approach. She is a certified mindfulness teacher and yoga instructor and regularly facilitates professional development workshops on SEL, mental health, and suicide prevention. Lina is based near Vienna, Austria, and lives with her therapy dog, Josie.