Welcome to the Counseling Department!
The school counselors here at West Buncombe are Meghan Dovenbarger and Dana Neely. We are proud to offer a comprehensive, developmental guidance program. The four main components of our program are: a school-wide program, classroom guidance lessons, small group counseling, and individual counseling.
School-Wide Program
Our school-wide activities address character education by infusing it into our curriculum through our Golden Eagle Program. We encourage good citizenship by recognizing students who display positive traits such as respect, kindness, good work habits, and safe behaviors. The goal of our school-wide program is to be as proactive as possible.
Classroom Guidance
The counselors teach guidance lessons that cover a variety of topics for grades K-4 such as character education, friendship, good citizenship, self-esteem, social skills, study skills, anger control, problem solving, decision-making, bully prevention, and more. Mrs. Dovenbarger teaches 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade classes and Mrs. Neely teaches Kindergarten and 4th grade classes.
Group Counseling
The counselors also work with students in small "guidance groups." These groups focus on a specific topic and include 4-6 students with similar concerns. Such groups include: school success, motivation, anger management, friendship, stress and anxiety, and coping with divorce or separation. Students are usually referred for these groups by a teacher, but parents are welcome to make referrals as well. Confidentiality is carefully maintained so that the rights and privacy of the children and their families is honored.
Individual Counseling
Our guidance program also includes individual counseling. Classroom teachers, parents, and other staff members refer students to the counselors, or a student can refer him- or her-self. Children often experience problems with friendships, schoolwork, relationships with others, feeling lonely, and other situations that may affect their performance at school (or at home). Students can discuss their problems openly and honestly with the school counselors. The counselors can offer support and help students attempt to overcome these difficulties and succeed in school. Referrals to other agencies will be made when appropriate. Once again, confidentiality will be carefully maintained.
The overall goal of West Buncombe's counseling program is to help students: achieve academic success, be good citizens, learn to have good relationships, have healthy lifestyles, and experience personal fulfillment. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your child's success in school, please feel free to contact us at the school – 232-4282. We welcome your feedback and are here to serve you and your child. We are looking forward to a great school year!
Thank you!
Meghan Dovenbarger, NCC
and
Dana Neely
School Counselors
Click the Guidance Counselor's name to visit their webpage.
