Counseling, Health & Support
Strengthening Minds, Supporting Hearts
At Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA), we care for the whole child — emotionally, socially, and academically.Through compassionate counseling, personalized guidance, and inclusive support programs, CRIA ensures that every student is prepared to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
🧠 School Counseling Program
CRIA’s School Counseling Program provides students with the tools to manage emotions, build resilience, and maintain healthy relationships.
We focus on helping students identify, express, and regulate emotions constructively, supporting academic and personal growth.
- Individual and small-group sessions for emotional regulation and self-management
- Lessons on how emotions influence learning and relationships
- Conflict-resolution and anti-bullying strategies
- Collaboration with parents to support behavioral or social-emotional needs
- Outside counseling referrals when appropriate
We affirm that parents are the primary caregivers and maintain full confidentiality in compliance with MEP and PANI regulations.
🎓 College & Career Counseling
CRIA’s college counseling helps students find the right fit, plan confidently, and flourish in the next stage of their education.
Through a structured exploration process, our students connect their passions with meaningful academic pathways.
- College Fairs on campus (30+ universities) and a Grade 11 San José College fair trip
- Career Fair events to explore diverse fields
- Academic pathway and course-rigor planning
- Teacher recommendation and portfolio guidance
- SAT preparation and scholarship counseling
- Proven record of admissions to top-tier universities
- $22,000,000 USD in scholarships awarded to recent Senior class
- Support for Common App, UCAS, EU, and Canada applications
From exploration to admission, CRIA ensures every graduate finds the right university and thrives there.
🌈 Learning Support & English Language Learners (ELL)
CRIA’s Learning Support (LSP) and English Language Learner (ELL) programs are designed to help every student reach their full potential.
- Approximately 15% of students Grades KG–8 receive ELL and/or LSP support
- Push-in and pull-out services to strengthen English proficiency and core academic skills
- Specialized math support in middle school to close learning gaps
- Integration into mainstream classrooms with individualized teacher support
Our inclusive model ensures all learners engage meaningfully in the bilingual CRIA community.
🌟 High-Ability Learners & Special Interest Electives
CRIA fosters intellectual curiosity and academic excellence by offering advanced learning opportunities for high-ability and motivated students.
- Encouragement for all high school students to take at least one AP course
- Specialized faculty for Advanced Placement subjects based on demand
- Dual-Enrollment university courses available for early college credit
- Online elective options (Grades 11–12) for specialized interests not offered on campus
- Academic tracking in mathematics to accelerate high-ability learners
Our goal is to ensure every student is challenged, supported, and inspired to achieve their highest potential.
❤️ Health & Wellness
CRIA promotes lifelong wellness through balanced nutrition, physical activity, and positive mental health education.
Students learn that health extends beyond academics — it is the foundation of resilience, confidence, and lasting success.