PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

        Graduated from University of Maryland, with a degree in Sociology/Psychology, in 1978. Worked for 1 yr. as an aide in a psychiatric hospital before pursuing my Masters in Social Work. For the past 20
years I have worked with children and adolescents but the past 14 years have been in the educational setting, while continuing to work part-time in the psychiatric setting. I have worked at the Stafford Middle School for the past 12 years and Coached M.S. girls soccer and basketball, as well.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

        Individual counseling- Meet with students on a regular or time limited basis, to assist students who are struggling academically, socially or emotionally.Though the sessions are confidential the students are told that collaboration with teachers, family and sometimes outside agencies is necessary.The students are taught coping skills, self advocacy and assertive skills to enhance performance and functioning, primarily in the academic setting. If the issues are not impacting the school performance but the family has concerns we may refer you to an outside therapist.

        Group Counseling-  Meet with students in small group setting to assist students with primarily social  skills but can also provide gender specific groups that are safe to discuss relevant developmental issues. Less frequent but possible are specific support groups ie. Divorce or Bereavment groups. We have also run a Parent Support group in the past.

        Short term interventions/Risk Assessment-  The job involves risk assessment related to suicidal, homicidal or other bvehaviors that may be deemed dangerous or disruptive. I may act as a consultant if there is concern regarding abuse, neglect or other issues thaat may involve the Court system or DCF.
        Often Middle School children have a difficult time adjusting and coping following the death or loss of a significant other(even a pet) or a disruption to the family(ie.separation or divorce). Other short term issues that can be worked through in collaboration with the teaching team and the family may include social difficulties(ie. rejection or ridicule) or feeling overwhelmed with the workload. Recognizing the sensitivity of the student, any issues are handled as discretely and confidentially as possible.

        Peer Mediation Program -  Peer Mediation is as it says a program designed to allow students to help other students to resolve conflicts, and avoid escalation. Selected students are selected and trained in the mediation process. The program runs on the premise that the students be respectful and the process is confidential. If there is successful resolution of the conflict  we don't involve the Principal and we don't involve the parents. If parents are aware of a conflict their children are having they can make an anonymous referrral through myself.  

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