Opportunity High School's School Counseling Page

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Welcome!

Welcome Students, Parents, and Teachers of Opportunity High School!!

My name is Lauren Cummings, and I am the school counselor at Opportunity High School. My job is to help students and parents navigate successfully through the next four years. I am also here to help the students determine their post high school plans. On this webpage I will provide helpful information for all those involved in the school. There is a link included on this page that gives instructions on how to contact me.
 
Services Provided:
  • Individual Counseling
  • Group Counseling
  • Scheduling
  • Academic Development
  • Career Development
  • Personal/Social Development
  • Classroom Instruction
  • Advocate
  • Consultant
 
 
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Article of the Month

LISTEN/SILENT

What’s the old adage concerning the word LISTEN?  Just rearrange the letters and one discovers that the word becomes SILENT.  Perhaps that old comment holds the key to good communication, whether it is with a child or another adult.  If each of us could hold onto our patience and our tongues long enough to listen to what the other person has to say we would, no doubt, find communication a much easier task.

There are some other helpful pieces of advice that are worth consideration.  Avoid giving advice or making judgments too quickly.  Ask the person for more information and details, both factual and emotional so that the issue is clarified for both the speaker and you, as the listener.  Although counselors are taught that self-disclosure helps a person to feel understood, resist the urge to talk about yourself.  The person in need of a good listener does not want to hear, “Gee that’s too bad, you won’t believe what my kid did last night”.  The person gets the feeling that you are just waiting for a chance to talk and not really listening.

Pick the right time to talk.  When you rush into the house after a long exhausting day, it’s okay to give yourself some time before beginning an important conversation with your child or spouse.  Think about what you want to say and try and get to the point.  It’s also a good idea to set time limits.  If you are overwhelmed don’t try and “squeeze” in a conversation that may frustrate you or the other person.  Agree on a time, a topic and a place to discuss important issues.  Avoid blaming or generalizing and keep silent unless you have something important to say…..you will soon be valued for your skills as a communicator.

Susan Mentzer-Blair, NCC, LP

Chair, MHS Guidance

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