Who are School Counselors?
School counselors are certified/licensed educators with a minimum of a master's degree in school counseling, making them uniquely qualified to address all students’ academic, career and social/emotional development needs by designing, implementing, evaluating and enhancing a comprehensive school counseling program that promotes and enhances student success. School counselors are vital members of the education team and help maximize student success.
The Role of School Counselors at NBH:
The School Counseling Department at North Bay Haven Charter Academy supports all students in applying academic achievement strategies, managing emotions and developing interpersonal skills, and planning for post-secondary options. Counselors collaborate with school staff members, parents, and outside agencies in meeting the needs of our students. In addition to meeting with students individually and in small groups, the counselors deliver developmental guidance lessons to all students based upon standards and best practices.
Hi, I’m Mary-Margaret Register, and I’m so excited to be joining NBH as the new middle school counselor!
This is my ninth year as a school counselor, eight of those in elementary and I’m looking forward to the adventure of working with middle schoolers.
I was born and raised here in Lynn Haven and attended FSU for my Bachelors and Troy University for my Masters in School Counseling.
I’m so thankful to be part of the NBH family and can’t wait to support our students and families this school year! Go Bucs!
Mary-Margaret Register
Grades 6-8
Middle School Counselor
regism@bayhaven.org
850-248-0801
My name is Heather Bastedo, and I am a High School Counselor at North Bay Haven Charter Academy. I grew up in northern Michigan and moved to Panama City Beach with my family in 2008. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Florida State University and my Masters of Education in School Counseling from Liberty University. Prior to becoming a school counselor, I spent nine years working for a national non-profit health organization as a community development director planning fundraising events and ensuring programs and services for patients.
I have a wonderful husband and together we have a daughter who graduated from NBH and currently attends the University of Florida. We are all so thrilled to be a part of the North Bay Haven family!
My name is Deborah Viera, and I am a High School Counselor at North Bay Haven. I have been a School Counselor with the Haven Inc. family since 2009. I remember the day I was notified that 2 of my children were accepted to attend Bay Haven through the lottery; we were all so excited! I knew immediately that I wanted to work at a Haven school and experience the High Expectations/High Achievements. I patiently waited a year for a position to open and the rest is history.
I was born and raised in Panama City. After graduating from Rutherford High School, I continued my education at Gulf Coast Community College, Florida State University, and earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy State University.
I am married to my wonderful husband and have three beautiful children.
I am excited to be a Buccaneer and look forward to a great year!
My name is Michelle Trzeciak, and I’ve called Panama City home for most of my life. I live with my husband, our son, our dog, and three cats.
I began my career right out of high school as a paraprofessional, working closely with autistic children—a role that inspired me to pursue a degree in Education from Florida State University. After teaching for five years, I earned my Master’s in Exceptional Student Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of West Florida. Since then, I have worked in educational, clinical, and behavioral health settings as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
In the spring, I plan to further my education by pursuing a second master’s degree in School Counseling from Troy University.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, traveling, attending concerts and music festivals, soaking up the sunshine, caring for my plants, running, and getting lost in a good book.
I am so happy to be a North Bay Haven Buccaneer!
Michelle Trzeciak
Grades 6-12
Behavior Coach
trzecmf@bayhaven.org
850-248-0801
My name is Ansley Autry, and I am originally from Georgia. I graduated from the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!) with a degree in Middle Grades Education, concentrating in Science and Social Science. I also hold a Master’s in Education in Advanced Curriculum and Accomplished Teaching with a Gifted Endorsement from Valdosta State University, as well as an Educational Specialist degree in Advanced Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University.
I have been in education since 2009, teaching grades 6–12 in a variety of subject areas. I am currently serving as the Graduation/Success Coach and Testing Coordinator, where I have the privilege of supporting students as they work toward their academic goals and ensuring a smooth and successful testing experience.
My family and I moved to Panama City in the fall of 2022, and we have loved it ever since. The small-town atmosphere and slower pace have been such a wonderful change. My husband and I have three children who attend North Bay Haven Elementary. We are big Georgia Football fans and enjoy spending our free time at the ballpark or relaxing at the beach.
I truly love being a North Bay Haven Buccaneer and am proud to be part of such a supportive and spirited school community!
Ansley Autry
Grades 9-12
Testing Coordinator & Success Coach
autryak@bayhaven.org
850-248-0801