COUNSELING CENTER

ASOP opened a brand new Counseling Center in August 2024 that is dedicated to the emotional well-being and mental health of our students. As an Eagle Scout service project, this welcoming environment was thoughtfully created through the dedication and hard work of Alyiah Thompson, Social Studies teacher Travis Thompson’s daughter.

ASOP’s School Counselor, Hollyn Smith, assists in emotional education and support throughout the school on a daily basis. Her responsibilities are many, including overseeing the social, emotional and behavioral climate of the school, managing student behavior, assisting with conflict resolution and anger management, and addressing the needs of students in an age-appropriate manner.

Student Therapist Interns

ASOP welcomed two new Student Therapist Interns, Dionna and Lesley, to our Counseling Center team at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. These interns are current students in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Friends University. Dionna and Lesley went through a rigorous interview process and were placed with School Counselor Hollyn as their supervisor for the year-long practicum. This is their final year in school, and they will be graduating in July 2025.

The interns will primarily serve our middle school students on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering both scheduled sessions and support for in-the-moment needs. High school students will also have access to their services during these times, ensuring that help is available when it’s needed most. Their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm will be a wonderful addition to our existing team, and we are confident that Dionna and Lesley will make a positive impact on the lives of our students.

The Calm Corner

One of the key features of the Counseling Center is the Calm Corner, a special area designed to help students regulate their emotions. Whether a student needs a moment to breathe, reflect, or simply take a break, the Calm Corner provides a peaceful environment with tools and resources for mindfulness and relaxation. It’s a space where students can step away from the busyness of school life and return to their day feeling more centered and focused.

Pathways

Additionally, we are excited to be bringing back Pathways, our small groups opportunity that focuses on mental health learning. These groups provide students with a supportive space to explore topics such as anxiety, stress management, and building confidence. Pathways is an opportunity for students to learn valuable skills for their emotional well-being in a group setting, where they can share experiences and support one another.

Ambassador Program

As part of our commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for new students, we have launched an Ambassador Program. This program pairs incoming students with peer mentors who can offer guidance, support, and a friendly face as they navigate their new environment. The Ambassador Program is designed to help new students feel welcome and connected from day one, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

We believe that the Counseling Center will be a cornerstone of our school’s commitment to mental health and well-being. Whether students need a moment of calm, a supportive conversation, or a deeper exploration of mental health, we are here to help them on their journey.

For more information or to schedule a meeting with our School Counselor, Hollyn Smith, contact her at hollyn@acceleratedschoolsop.org. We look forward to supporting our students as they grow, learn, and thrive.

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