Allentown High School

Role of a Student Assistance Counselor:
The Student Assistance Counselor (SAC) provides in-school assessment, crisis intervention, counseling and referral services to any student who may be experiencing personal, family and/or peer difficulties especially when related to substance use. The goal is to support all students and prevent personal difficulties from interfering with their overall success.
The student Assistance Program is designed to support students and families by providing counseling, education and referral services related to the following areas:

• Substance Abuse
• Mental Health
• Healthy Relationships
• Transition/Adjustment
• Divorce
• Family Changes
• Grief and Loss
• Eating Disorders
• Self-Esteem
• Self-Harm and Suicide

When necessary, the SAC will refer a student to a higher level of care outside of the school environment.

The SAC provides up to date educational information to all staff members in the high school on pertinent alcohol, tobacco and other drug trends. This is accomplished through in-service presentation, and weekly informational newsletters.

As well, the SAC provides educational information to all students on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs through presentations in their health classes.

In addition to providing individual services, group counseling may be offered on occasion based on students need and interest. Group counseling is offered for the following areas of concern:

• Personal Growth and Motivation
• Self Esteem and Body Image
• Substance Abuse Awareness, Prevention and Recovery
• Anger Management
• Family Dysfunction