Hi, my name is Debbie Van Elswyk, and I am one of the school counselors at Norris Middle School. It is my goal to empower all students to achieve their academic goals by supporting their social emotional wellbeing.

Counseling services are available to increase the learning potential in the classroom and to help all students successfully achieve their academic and personal goals.  Teachers and parents are the key people in recognizing the need for counseling services, and through a combined team effort, we can effectively advocate for all students.  The school counseling services at NMS include whole class instruction, small groups, and individual counseling. These services can be requested by the student, a teacher, or a parent/guardian.

In order to build trusting relationships with students, it is important that confidentiality between the student and myself is maintained. Confidentiality will be maintained unless the student plans on hurting themselves, hurting someone else, or is being hurt by someone.  In those situations, I would contact the parent/legal guardian. 

The school counseling support provided can be therapeutic, but the role of a school counselor is not to diagnose or provide therapy.  I am able to provide temporary/short term support to help students overcome acute issues having an impact on their school performance.  Licensed mental health counselors are the appropriate resource to provide ongoing therapy sometimes needed by families and children.  I am happy to provide a list of outside agencies and licensed mental health counselors at your request.

If you feel that your child would benefit from school based counseling services, please email me at [email protected]