In the Trenches offers experience-based strategies and concrete examples for working with students in the areas of academic, social, and behavioral issues, as well as parental and school-based concerns. Written in conversational English, practical approaches are presented to assist counselors with time management, handling disappointment, avoiding "burn out," and how to stay focused and balanced in order to deal with the daily pressures. The importance of self-exploration to expose possible pitfalls, such as control issues, perfectionism, ego, known and unknown prejudices, or allowing compassion to sometimes smother objectivity are topics that are also discussed, as well as the importance of building positive professional relationships with colleagues, teachers, administrators, school staff, and outside agencies.