TRHS Peer Counseling

Peer Counseling Program

Our objective as Peer Counselors is to assist students in developing peer communication skills, to improve self-esteem, to facilitate accepting responsibility, and to provide an environment for students supporting one another. Peer Counselors are specifically trained to work with students who may be struggling with academics or personal issues. The Peer Counseling program is open to all students. Our door is always open, as we have Peer Counselors in the Counseling office every period. Any student having an issue is welcome to come in and work through it with a peer counselor. We really enjoy helping our fellow students.

Peer Counseling Works!

100% of students agreed or strongly agreed that their peer counselor was attentive, listened well, and was genuinely invested in their conversations
90.9% agreed or strongly agreed that peer counseling helped with goal setting, time management, study habits, and organization
90.9% agreed or strongly agreed that peer counseling assisted them in identifying their personal and academic strengths and weaknesses
86.4% agreed or strongly agreed that peer counseling helped them gain a better understanding of who they are as an individual
81.8% agreed or strongly agreed that counseling was effective for discussing healthy choices around school, family, friends, and peer pressure
72.7% agreed or strongly agreed that counseling helped them explore post-secondary options and build confidence for future success

What are Peer Counselors?

Peer counselors are here to relate and assist the student body. We are here to connect with students, and improve student life in a way that teachers may not be able to. We help students make and achieve their own goals, in a safe and non-judgmental environment. As peer counselors, we strive daily to make an impact on student life at ThunderRidge High School, by making ourselves available whenever necessary. From academic problems to social issues, we as peer counselors are here as a support group for any individual. Come and see us in the counseling office, our door is always open.

Confidentiality

Whatever Happens in Peer Counseling stays in Peer Counseling. We are committed to keeping situations confidential and we are all expected to fulfill this duty. We understand that it is difficult to trust people with certain dilemmas, but we are here as a safe place to come for support. We are committed to our roles and the only time confidentiality would ever be broken is if the situation becomes dangerous or extreme. Our main objective is to help solve problems and give every single student at ThunderRidge the happiness they deserve, while maintaining a confidential and trusting environment.

Interested in Becoming a Peer Counselor?

If you would like to become a Peer Counselor you must complete the application. Here is how the process works:

Apply in the Spring of your Sophomore year - The application includes teacher recommendations, and short answer questions. If your application is accepted, you will be interviewed by counseling staff.
Once accepted, you will take "Peer Counseling I" (receiving elective credit) Fall semester of your Junior year, where you will receive specific training to serve as a Peer Counselor.
You will serve Peer Counselor Spring semester Junior year and Fall semester of your Senior year (earning elective credit both semesters).

If you would like more information, feel free to email Ms. Cofer or Mr. Valerio at the following emails:

meghan.cofer@dcsdk12.org

eric.valerio@dcsdk12.org.