Kent Gardens School Counselors

The primary objective of elementary school counselors is to assist students in reaching their potential to become effective learners. The goal is to complement the learning environment in the classroom by using a child-centered, preventative, and developmental approach.

Counseling will be conducted with students individually and in small groups, when requested by parents and teachers and determined appropriate. This service is short-term, voluntary, and confidential. Parent notification is given to any extended individual or group counseling. There will also be monthly classroom guidance lessons focusing on student success.

The counseling program provides elementary students with assistance in:

• Understanding self and developing a positive self-image.
• Showing respect for the feelings of others.
• Understanding the decision-making process.
• Maintaining effective relationships with peers and adults.
• Developing effective study skills.
• Being prepared to make the transition to the middle school.
• Gaining an understanding of the world of work.

Parents may opt out of the school counseling program by submitting a form (see page 12).

Our School Counselors

• Elizabeth MacDonald | contact
• Katharine Altman | contact

School Psychology Services

School psychologists are mental health specialists with knowledge of child development, the psychology of learning, behavior management and intervention, monitoring the progress of students, and program evaluation. School psychologists apply this knowledge using a problem-solving approach to help bring about positive changes in the learning environment, attitude, and motivation. Services offered by the school psychologist may be provided directly to the student or indirectly by working with teachers, parents, and other care givers; however, all services provided by the school psychologist are intended to enhance the academic and social emotional success of students. Minimum requirements to be a school psychologist include a 60-hour master's degree program and a one-year full-time internship; many FCPS school psychologists hold doctoral degrees.

Our School Psychologist

• Mariah Longmore | contact

Social Work and Support Services

School social workers focus on family and community factors that influence learning. They provide intensive services for students facing issues that pose risks to their academic success such as parent divorce and separation, poverty, truancy, chronic illness, mental health problems, conduct problems, child abuse, etc.

All FCPS social workers hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) or Master of Social Science (MSS) degree; many have earned a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) degree. All school social workers are licensed by the Virginia Department of Education. The majority of the staff is clinically licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia Board of Social Work (LCSW) or in other jurisdictions and trained to provide mental health services in any setting.

Our School Social Worker

• Lisa Hershaft | contact