The mission of the Octorara Area School District's School Counseling Program is to provide a comprehensive, developmental counseling program addressing the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. School Counselors strive to empower students to maximize their potential and academic achievement. In partnership with other educators, parents, and community members, school counselors support the educational system to ensure all students in the Octorara Area School District are prepared with the knowledge and skills needed to function in a changing society.

Many times people have asked, “What does a school counselor do?” It would be very difficult to describe every aspect of a counselor’s job however, I will highlight some key points.

A counselor works with children, parents, teachers, administrators, nurses, and various agencies. The purpose is to support the social, emotion, and physical well being of a child.

Many issues addressed may be serious in nature. However, I work with children dealing with day to day problems with friends, school, home, and community situations. I talk with children in either an individual or group setting. The goal is to teach children how to deal with their own problems; so they may have the skills to handle issues when they arise. Counselors also go into the classroom when appropriate.

Your child does not need to have severe emotional problems to talk with the school counselor. I work with parents, teachers and children to help them to be the best they can be and put them on the road to success.

Please contact me if you have concerns for which I may be able to provide support.