Ocean Bay Middle

HOW CAN WE HELP?

We look forward to getting to know your family, and working together to help your child be successful at OBMS. A majority of our day is spent working directly with students; as a result, we are not always available for drop-in meetings. Whenever possible, please call/email in advance to make an appointment. Thank you!

THE ROLE OF THE SCHOOL COUNSELOR

The Professional School Counselor is a certified educator trained in counseling techniques and strategies designed to meet the academic, personal/social, and career development needs of students. They support a collaborative learning environment by working with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community agencies.

Even though it is an exciting time, middle school often comes with a unique set of challenges-from academic to personal and social.  Counselors are prepared to help navigate these challenges, by providing nonjudgmental support and encouragement.

If you would like to know more about the role of a Professional School Counselor please select one of the links below.

• ASCA Role Statement

• Research on the Value of School Counseling

• Role of Middle School Counselors

CONFIDENTIALITY

The relationship between a student and his/her counselor is established and maintained due to trust and respect. In order for meaningful dialogue to occur, confidentiality must be part of the foundation of the counseling relationship. We stress to our students, "What you say in here, stays in here." There are 4 exceptions to this rule, and in these situations our primary objective is to make sure the student has the continued support they need. Communication is vital during this stage of development and we encourage every student we work with to share their "inner world" with their family and friends.

Exceptions to Confidentiality:

• Someone is hurting you

• You want to hurt someone

• You want to hurt yourself

• SC H4624 You share that your biological sex is different than your perceived gender

24/7 Mental Health Support
Horry County Schools has partnered with Care Solace to support the well-being of students, staff, and their family members. Care Solace is a complimentary and confidential care coordination service that can help you quickly find mental health or substance use treatment options matched to your needs regardless of circumstance. If you would like to use Care Solace to help you find a provider: Call 888-515-0595 they are available 24/7/365 in any language, OR Visit www.caresolace.com/horrycounty and either search on your own OR click “Book Appointment” for assistance by video chat, email, or phone.

Text HELLO to 741741 to speak with a crisis counselor
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255)
Chat with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, contact the 24/7/365 Statewide South Carolina Crisis Response dispatcher at 833-364-2274, or call 911.