Counseling Services

The mission of the York Chester Middle School Counseling Program is to provide a comprehensive program of supports, addressing the academic, career and personal/social development of students. Through collaboration and partnership between the department and the school's teachers, administrators, parents, families and its community, the counseling department provides access to the services and resources students needs to succeed in both school and life, as they prepare for success in the 21st Century. We strive to instill in our students the need for high expectations of ones self, a strong work ethic, and the development of critical reasoning and thinking skills. Our team advocates for respect of all people. We strive to instill in all students a sense of kindness and empathy. We lead by example. The most important factor of our mission is caring adults.


Why are Middle School Counselors important?

Middle School is classified as a period in a child's life where rapid growth is occurring and self-identity is emerging. Through a comprehensive school counseling program, school counselors are able to collaborate with school staff, parents, and community members to foster a caring and supportive environment where young adolescents can achieve academic success. School counseling programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set appropriate career goals and realize full academic potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community.


How do Middle School Counselors incorporate the Counseling Program?

  • School Counseling Curriculum

  • Academic skills support

  • Organizational, study and test-taking skills

  • Education in understanding self and others

  • Coping strategies

  • Peer relationships and effective social skills

  • Communication, problem-solving, decision-making and conflict resolution

  • Career awareness and exploration

  • Substance abuse education

  • Multicultural/diversity awareness

  • Individual Student Planning

  • Goal-setting/decision-making

  • Academic planning

  • High school transition planning


Responsive Services

  • Individual and small group counseling

  • Crisis intervention

  • Peer conflict facilitation and resolution

  • Consultation/collaboration

  • Referrals for mental health support