GERSTELL ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP • HONOR • COURAGE
Campus Life
Student Support

Counseling Program

Welcome to Gerstell Academy's Counseling Program. Our program is designed to provide every student with positive self-regard in a diverse, non-judgmental environment intended to enhance student leadership through academic, emotional and social development necessary to have a positive impact on the student and community.
Mission Statement:  The mission of the Gerstell Academy Counseling Program is to provide Pre-K - grade 12 developmentally appropriate guidance.  As an integral part of the total Gerstell Academy experience, counseling services focus on student development, including personal leadership decision-making by improving self-awareness and critical thinking.  Through a nurturing and mentoring environment students acquire a greater understanding of themselves and others, as well as their role within the community in a diverse and ever-changing world.
 
Motto:  Trust in the Process of Hope and Perseverance

Beliefs/Purpose: 
  • Students need effective social-emotional skills to reach their full potential. The study of psychology and human development is the foundation to achieve these goals and allows students to explore and understand who they are and how they develop, as well as gain an understanding of personal leadership dynamics.
  • Primary focus on Leadership Principle # 3 - treating others as you want to be treated.
  • The school counseling program strives to understand the diverse needs of all students and respect others’ beliefs and viewpoints.  Diversity is celebrated and embraced as each student brings with them a unique combination of backgrounds and perspectives. 
  • Gain an understanding of the values and respect in terms of diversity in culture, religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, family dynamics, socio-economic status, abilities, age, affinities and learning strengths. 
  • Through a nurturing and mentoring environment, leadership development and self-awareness are infused in our counseling program.
 
Direct Services Provided On Campus:
  • provides short-term individual counseling and group counseling to students.
  • provides proactive classroom lessons regarding relevant topics (i.e. mental health, kindness and compassion, self-awareness, social skills, conflict resolution, bullying, etc.).
  • implements conflict mediation and resolution with students. 
  • assists with crisis intervention.
Indirect Services Available Off Campus:
  • conducts outside referrals for additional student support.
  • consults and collaborates with administration, teachers, advisors, families, community organizations and other stakeholders.
  • fosters an understanding of confidentiality between students, parents, staff and community. 
2500 Old Westminster Pike
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
1-866-861-3300