Beyond Academics: A Spotlight On The Counseling Services Department
There’s a special bond between our counselors at Visions. They host baby showers for their teammates, dress up in group costumes for Halloween, attend conferences together, and most importantly, collaborate to provide personalized, critical services to our students.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re shining a light on this team and the many supports they provide to students, including mental health services, college and career planning, interventions and referrals, and more.
“As school counselors at Visions, we focus on supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, and career development. We conduct one-on-one and group sessions, guide students through academic and personal challenges, and provide transition plans and resources for post-secondary goals,” explains Counselor Brittney Hoffman.
Whether a student wants to attend college, go to trade school, enter the workforce, or join the armed forces post-graduation, our counselors provide guidance to keep them on their chosen path.
“One of University Prep Early College’s primary goals is guiding students on a college-bound pathway, whether it be community college or 4-year universities,” explains University Prep Academy Counselor Julie Winalski. “This means a strong emphasis on A-G course completion, college readiness, and providing in-depth support with college applications, financial aid, personal statements, letters of recommendation and scholarship opportunities.”
But the work of our counselors isn’t just reviewing transcripts and reading applications – it’s supporting the transition to Visions, fostering social connections, removing barriers to success, and nurturing student growth. Whether they’re working with families or staff, our counselors remain dedicated to advocating for the overall well-being of every student in their care.
“I regularly meet with students, families, and teachers to share resources—such as small groups and student clubs—and to collaborate on strategies for improving academic performance, boosting engagement, and recognizing individual strengths,” explains Counselor Sander Salguero. “I help families navigate our school system, access available resources, and connect with appropriate staff or community services when needed.”
“We work with our administrators who help facilitate the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) process for students who are presenting with a variety of challenges,” adds Estrella Rosales. “Our work also requires that we have solid collaboration with our social workers so we can address higher tiered needs for students such as proactive intervention and crisis management.”
“As a new counselor on the team, I’m super excited about all the ways that Visions serves our students!” says new Counselor Grace Gose. “The level of personalized support here is awesome and there are so many teams of people working together to be champions for students, so what’s really stood out is how everyone works together so seamlessly. It’s also just so FUN. Overall, I’m loving the chance to be part of a team that’s all about making a positive impact in EVERY student’s life!”
As Grace alluded to, there’s no shortage of passion on the Counseling team. Despite the weight of their roles, each counselor knows how to find joy in their everyday work.
“My passion stems from helping high school students academically, emotionally and socially, providing guidance, support and resources to help them navigate the complexities of high school and help them plan for their future,” says Counselor Monique Maher.
“Visions is such a unique place,” adds Counselor Megan Goudy. “I have learned how passionate our teachers are about helping each student find their own success. I’ve learned that our counseling team is full of incredible individuals who will advocate for what is best for students. I have learned that Visions is in a special position to serve students coming from a wide variety of backgrounds and situations and that we are able to offer them the flexibility not found at other schools. And most of all, I have learned all over again, day in and day out, how important the work we do is to each individual student and family.”
Together for Students
The notion of “counseling” goes well beyond academics here at Visions – it’s care and compassion, influence and impact.
“The entire counseling team deserves a huge shout-out! Their dedication and commitment to student success, health, and wellness is apparent in the daily work they do,” says Counselor Ah Yang.
“As a large, collaborative counseling team, each of us brings something unique and valuable to the table,” adds Counselor Kiely Anderson. “We rely on one another, sharing ideas, experiences, and challenges to continuously explore ways to better support our students—both in meaningful, lasting ways and in the everyday moments that matter.”
Of course, our students and families aren’t the only ones who rely on our counselors – sometimes it’s the members of the team themselves who lean on one another for guidance.
“Our counseling team supports one another by always being there for each other – whether that’s through words of encouragement, positive feedback, collaborating on ideas and projects, or checking in with each other throughout the day,” shares Counselor Madeline Meniketti. “We always make sure to show up for one another and help each other when needed.”
“Everybody is always willing to step in and help with anything, and everybody has such a diverse set of knowledge,” adds Counselor Jen Nino. “We’re all an expert in something; regardless of what the situation is, somebody will always be there to bounce ideas off of and help.”
Overseeing this team is one of Counseling Program Mariah Ernst-Collins’ favorite part of the job, working with such an incredible team and within an organization that’s been changing student lives for over 25 years.
“Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that every student receives equitable access to the resources and guidance they need to thrive mentally, emotionally, and academically. And did I mention, I love supporting this amazing team of counselors and working with students!”
“Each [student] is unique with their own needs and challenges, some of which aren’t always met by traditional education systems. However, at Visions, we aren’t confined by the usual schedules, locations, or traditional structures. This gives us the freedom to tailor our approach to each student,” explains Counselor Rija Gorkhali. “With the wide variety of options we offer in virtual/in-person platforms, our students receive an education and enrichment experience that other institutions simply can’t match. Because we’re Visions, we make it happen.”
A Message from Counselor Nicole Tannous: “One of the biggest benefits of counseling is knowing you’re not alone—we’re here for you, ready to listen, support, and advocate for your needs every step of the way.”