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Meet our Student Advocacy Counselors
Meet our Student Advocacy Counselors
Erin MacDonald
Erin MacDonald
Hi, I’m Erin MacDonald, and I’ve spent the last four years as a student advocacy counselor at Cold Lake High School, working passionately to support the needs of students in my division. Before this role, I was a counselor in Two Hills at Two Hills School for five years, where I gained valuable experience in helping young people navigate their challenges. Prior to that, I dedicated 16 years to youth treatment within the justice system under the Children Services Authority. This experience truly shaped my understanding of the complexities facing vulnerable youth and fueled my desire to transition into school counseling. I grew up in Fort McMurray and earned my diploma in Social Service Work in Peterborough, Ontario. I have a strong passion for mental health, medical interventions, and pharmaceutical research, which drives my commitment to providing comprehensive support. On a personal note, I share my life with two goofy corgis who bring endless joy and emotional support. They’ve even played a role in my counseling work, helping to create a warm and welcoming environment for students. I’m excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of young people!
Students and families A-K, if you would like to connect with me please email erin.macdonald@nlsd.ab.ca
Kimberly Turchyn
Kimberly Turchyn
Hello everyone, I am Kimberly Turchyn. I have been a Student Advocacy Counselor with Northern Lights Public Schools for over 12 years and in that time I have been able to work with some incredible students, families and staff. My role is to provide support to students, by helping them to navigate through academic, personal, and social challenges by understanding and addressing their unique needs. With a background in Social Work , I have developed a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of human behavior, mental health, and social systems. I am deeply committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels valued, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Students and families L-Z If you would like to connect with me please email kimberly.turchyn@nlsd.ab.ca
Student Advocacy Counselors Role
Student Advocacy Counselors Role
To provide universal, targeted, and individualized supports.
To work in partnership with community agencies, school staff, students, and families.
Provide preventative services and information on a variety of topics.
Empower students by focusing on strengths.
Promote positive mental health.
Mental Health Support (developing plans to support/manage diagnosed mental illness while in school fro Anxiety, ODD, OCD, Autism, ADHD, Depression and more).
Suicidal Ideation (developing safety plans, contacting families, connecting with appropriate resources).
Parent support (agency navigation, education and referral to outside supports).
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