Holden is devoted to helping students feel good about who they are and what they can do.

Individual Counseling

Research has shown that the primary factor contributing to success in school is a one-on-one relationship with a staff person; to help facilitate that, each student has a weekly half-hour of Resource & Support (R&S) with one of our counselors. Some students use R&S for therapy; others choose to use it in different ways. We want to provide students the opportunity to connect one-on-one with a caring adult here at school.

Advocates for Students

Counselors act as advocates for their students in any school meetings. The advocate makes sure the student gets room to speak, is heard and understood, is treated fairly and that his or her rights and feelings don’t get overlooked in a room full of adults.

Family Counseling

Students, parents or the school can request a family meeting when they feel it is necessary. We encourage families to use our expertise in dealing with such issues as fair fighting, chores, curfews or money. In addition, short- and long- term counseling are available.

Mediations

Students do not have to like each other or staff, but we do need to get along. From time to time, a mediation facilitated by a director and supported by counselors can be helpful. Any student or staff person can call for a mediation at any time.

Groups

We always have groups available on the schedule. A few examples: Women’s Group; Men’s Group; Art as Self-Expression; Dreamwork; Death, Dying & Suicide; Psychology through Film; Sobriety; Relationships.

About Holden Counselors

Skilled counselors volunteer their time and energy here. Our counselors are enrolled in or have graduated from accredited Masters programs in clinical psychology, and are furthering their training under supervision by licensed psychotherapists.