Sussman Counselors
Counseling News & Announcements
Why Kindness Matters
The way people treat one another matters, and a simple moment of kindness can truly change someone’s life in ways others don’t always realize.
Cyber Safety & Digital Citizenship
As technology advances, it’s vital to teach students safe and appropriate device use, both in and out of the classroom.
Supporting Students in Their Transitions from Elementary to Middle School
Moving up to middle school from elementary school can be intimidating. Here are some tips for a smoother transition.
Overview
Middle school students are characterized by rapid physical growth, curiosity about their world and an emerging self-identity. Middle school counselors enhance the learning process and promote academic, career and social/emotional development. School counseling programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set informed career goals and realize full academic potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community.
Role of a School Counselor
School Counselors help students in the areas of academic achievement, career development, and social/emotional development. We work directly with students, communicate with parents, and collaborate with teachers and administrators to help support student growth.
Common topics that are addressed with students:
- Goal setting
- Personal organization
- Peer conflict resolution
- Reducing anxiety
- Loss of a loved one
- Self-esteem
- Moving/transition
- Dealing with divorce
- Stress management
- Depression/sadness
This site was developed by Sussman School Counselors for students and families. This is not intended to replace any professional help.
If you are going through a crisis such as a medical or mental health emergency please call 9-1-1 for support.
Confidentiality Statement
As School Counselors, we maintain strict confidentiality in all of our interactions. All meetings held in person, online or over the phone with the school counselor will remain confidential unless the student gives permission to share information with related parties. However, circumstances do arise where we must disclose information to appropriate professionals. Reasons for breaking confidentiality include, but are not limited to: a student is in danger of harming themselves, another individual, or if a student is in danger of being harmed by others.
Your Counselors
Jim Gillespie
This is his 29th year at Sussman/South Middle School. Before becoming a counselor, he was an English teacher. Jim attended Downey Elementary, East Middle School (Doty), and Downey High.
Last Names: A – GOM
Debra Camacho
Her 15th year at Sussman Middle School. She completed her undergraduate work at Cal State Fullerton and received her Masters Degree from Chapman University.
Last Names: GON – PEM
Claudia Garcia
Warren High School graduate. She completed her B.A. in Liberal Studies and M.S. in Educational Counseling from the University of La Verne.