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Counseling Center

What we do ...

Here at Wilbraham & Monson Academy, we are dedicated to our students and their families, working toward making sure that every student gains the academic, social and emotional skills to reach their educational potential. Beyond the educational doors at WMA, we aspire that all students achieve a successful, responsible and productive life.

We, as the Academy’s Counseling Department, are focused on the students’ mental health and well-being across the whole community. We do this by offering direct support on a 1:1 and/or group basis. We develop treatment plans, safety plans and provide necessary interventions based on students’ need.

The Counseling Department specializes in helping students with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, navigation of friendships/relationships, bullying, studying/organizational skills, and assist with various social, emotional and academic challenges. We look at the child as a whole and work collaboratively with teachers, deans, administrators, coaches and other school staff to ensure the student thrives to the best of their ability. Our biggest role as school counselors is to provide student advocacy, to create a school culture of success for all, and to help all students manage emotions and apply interpersonal skills.

In order to bridge the mental health gap, we offer in-school appointments/check-ins in compliance with the students and school counselors’ schedule/availability. Our goal is to provide a safe environment for your child to speak freely on what they may be going through. Through counseling conversations, we respond to lower the stigma revolving around mental health and mental illness. We act as mental health first responders and strive to walk beside your child when they need it the most.

If your child needs mental health support, please contact either Allyson Thomas or Carly Garbarino. It is OK to ask for help and we are here to support you and your student.

Roles and FAQ

The Counseling Center is staffed with two full-time practitioners trained in the field. The goal of the Counseling Center is to provide educational and emotional support to the student body. 

The role of the School Counselor at Wilbraham & Monson Academy is to:

  • Focus on supporting students' emotional well-being.
  • Support students who are navigating challenging situations, or just need someone to talk to.
  • Advocate for students

How can I connect with a counselor on campus?

Feel free to email us or give us a call.

Offices are located on the ground floor level of Rich Hall, near the Dining Hall lobby.

What do I do if someone I know could utilize these resources?

You can always reach out to us or stop by if we are available. It is best to see if the individual is comfortable first before connecting them with us. If not, we can certainly invite the student and check in with them.

Is there a fee to utilize the counseling services?

There is no extra fee to utilize our services.

Our Counselors

Carly Garbarino

Allyson Thomas