School Counseling

What are School Counselors?

Parents, the press, administrators, and the general public often wonder just what it is that school counselors do on a daily basis. They help all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development, and career development, ensuring today's students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow.

High school counselors are educators uniquely trained in child and adolescent development, learning strategies, self-management and social skills who understand and promote success for today's diverse students. They provide education, prevention, and intervention activities, which are integrated into all aspects of students' lives. They assess students' abilities, interests, and achievement to help them make decisions about their future.

High school counselors do not provide mental health therapy or long-term counseling in schools; however, they are prepared to recognize and respond to student mental health needs and assist students and families seeking resources. Mental health services are available at South Medford High School at no cost.

(information courtesy of the American School Counselor Association website)

Connecting With Your Counselor

Need to connect with your counselor? You can do so in a number of ways!

You should already be connected to your counselor's Canvas page. If your counselor has open appointment times, you can secure one in Canvas.
Counselors are available during lunch for walk-in appointments. Head in to the counselor hallway by entering the back door in lower "A" (just past the Panther Future Center) after the lunch bell rings. The door will be propped open for the entire lunch period. If counselors are off-site and unavailable for lunch walk-ins, a sign will be posted on that door.
Our Student Services team can tell you if your counselor is available for a walk-in during other times of the day. They can also assist you in scheduling an appointment. Stop by the main office before school, after school, or during a free period and visit the Student Services counter (on the right side of the office, in front of the windows).
Our Student Services team can also be reached by phone at (541)842-3690.
You can also reach out to your counselor by phone or email.