Lower School Counseling Services

Students may come see the school counselor for a number of reasons: 

-making & keeping friends
-setting goals
-learning social skills
-feeling good about yourself & boosting self-esteem
-making good choices
-being responsible & respectful
-understanding & working with strong feelings
-conflict resolution
-bullying
-changes at home or school
-experiencing loss or grief

​It is important to remember that school counselors do not provide long term therapy. It is recommended that they only see students for a few sessions before deciding to make a referral to a community resource. ​

Students may be asked to participate in group counseling sessions throughout the year that focus on the various needs of students that can include: 

-grief & loss of a loved one

-stress, worry, & anxiety

-social skills

-new to Pine Lake Prep/Mooresville area students

-self-esteem

-friendship 

Permission forms will be sent home to guardians if a student is referred for a group. Community resources also come to our school and lead groups related to grief and worries.

Classroom lessons will focus on character traits throughout the school year that are essential for students to learn in order to become well-rounded, active members of the community as they mature. These lessons will focus on PRIDE this year as well as a few other important character traits including: 

-Perseverance

-Respect

-Integrity

-Driven to Excellence

-Empathy

-Feelings/Emotions

-Diversity

-Kindness/Friendship

-Responsibility

...and more as needs arise!

I also serve as the 504 Case Manager for students who have a plan or for parents who desire to determine eligibility for a 504 Plan for their child . For more information on 504 Plans check out the links below: 

Parent's Guide to 504 Plans

Understanding 504 Plans

​If you feel that your child can benefit from the accommodations and modifications provided in a 504 Plan feel free to contact me, your teacher or the Lower School administration to start the process. 

Pine Lake Preparatory has partnered with local mental health agencies to make it easier for families and students to access mental health services.  The School-Based Therapy program provides support to students within the school building during the school day.

This is a more intensive support and long term approach to supporting students’ mental health needs in comparison to the brief, short-term check-ins offered by Pine Lake’s school counselors.  

Click to learn more about School Based Counseling  at PLP.