Ep.2 - Social Interest and Belonging: Harry Potter’s First Week at Hogwarts

In every school cafeteria, there’s a moment—tray in hand, scanning for a seat, seeking a friendly face—that defines the human need to belong. In this episode of School Counselors Beyond, we walk alongside Harry Potter during his first week at Hogwarts, exploring how Adlerian Theory—and the concept of social interest—illuminates his journey from outsider to connected friend and wizard. Drawing from both counseling practice and scenes from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Chapters 6–8), host Tony Yang unpacks the emotional power of inclusion, the impact of rejection, and how small acts—like sharing a pasty or calling a student by name—can encourage lasting change. Whether you're a counselor, educator, or simply someone who remembers that cafeteria moment, this episode invites you to reflect on what it means to help students truly belong. 

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School Counselors Beyond is an independent podcast created for educational and commentary purposes. This podcast is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized by J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any other rights holders of the Harry Potter series or related properties.

All references to fictional characters, settings, or events are used under fair use for the purpose of critical analysis, discussion, and the exploration of counseling concepts. The views expressed are those of the host and do not represent any official organizations or creators of the original works.

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