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SCHOOL COUNSELORS 

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Laura Benefield, MA

School Counselor

Laura Benefield has worked with children and families for over 20 years.  She brings passion, energy, and a sense of humor to her work with students in the school setting.  Focus of therapy work includes Social Learning Theory, DBT, and CBT skills to support youth in building resiliency, self- regulation skills, and emotional management. 

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Jeffery Harshbarger, MA

School Counselor

Jeffery works in the school setting utilizing his abilities in mental health counseling and person centered, individualized approaches.

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Derrick Gillespie, MA

School-Based Counselor

Derrick is a Masters Level counselor and military veteran. He works in the school setting and has a great deal of passion for the treatment and recovery of the students he works with. He utilizes DBT and person Centered Therapy.

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Deanne Blueter, MA

School-Based Counselor

DeAnne has worked with children and families for 24 years in a social work and family support capacity in addition to her occupation as a college psychology professor. She has worked with children of all ages with her concentration being on elementary school-aged children and their parents. She currently works in the school setting utilizing her abilities in mental health counseling using a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral and play therapy to help children be successful in school and other areas of their lives.

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Ellen Faulkner, MA

School Counselor

Ellen works in the school setting utilizing her abilities in mental health counseling and person centered, individualized approaches.

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Guy Mock, MA

School-Based Counselor

Guy has worked with children and adolescents and has a specialized approach with youth matters. His extensive knowledge of being a mentor and skilled counselor allows him to help youth navigate through stressors and trauma. Guy works in the school setting utilizing his abilities in mental health counseling and person-centered individualized approaches.

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Tashara English, M.ED, MA

School-Based Counselor

Tashara is a Master's level Mental Health Counselor, formally working in clinical counseling, case management and education. With over 20 years of experience working with children and families from all walks of life. Through her years of experience, she has gained the knowledge and compassion to provide quality mental health services. Her tools of focus include DBT, PPH, and CBT, specializing in behavioral/family issues, anger/emotional management, conflict resolution, self-regulation, and self-esteem.

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Brian Slaughter, MA 

School-Based Counselor

Brian is a Master Level Clinician who has worked with many diverse populations, including adolescents and teens. Brian loves serving our high school community and bringing his experience and education to address any and all challenges affecting our community.

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Ashley Santiago, MSW

School-Based Counselor

Ashley is passionate about helping children and adolescents build resilience, strengthen emotional well-being, and navigate life's challenges. She believes every student deserves a safe, supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and empowered to succeed. Drawing from experience in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care, Ashley works collaboratively with students, families, and school staff to develop practical coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and support academic and personal success. She utilizes evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and strengths-based interventions tailored to each student's unique needs. Ashley is committed to building meaningful connections with students while helping them recognize their strengths and reach their full potential.

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Kristen Racktoo, MS

School-Based Counselor

Kristen is passionate about helping children, teens, and adults navigate life's challenges with compassion, understanding, and individualized care. She believes that every person has the capacity to heal, grow, and build a more fulfilling life when they feel heard, supported, and empowered. Kristen is committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment where clients from all backgrounds feel respected and supported. She has a special interest in working with both pediatric and adult populations and plans to continue her education by pursuing a doctorate in Clinical Neuropsychology. Her goal is to help every client discover their strengths, build resilience, and move toward lasting emotional wellness.

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Courtney Crowl, MS 

School-Based Counselor

Courtney has dedicated more than 11 years to studying human behavior and the complexities of the mind. She holds an educational background in criminology, forensic psychology, and clinical mental health counseling, providing her with a well-rounded perspective on the factors that influence emotional well-being and personal growth.


Using a trauma-informed approach and motivational interviewing techniques, Courtney is passionate about helping individuals gain insight, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change. She is committed to fostering a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward with confidence. Courtney believes that every person's journey is unique and considers it a privilege to walk alongside her clients as they work toward healing and achieving their personal goals.

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