This year at Dakota High School, a new staff member has set foot into the building. Introducing Mrs. Coles, Dakota’s newest counselor.  

In the past, Mrs. Coles has counseled the teenagers at Seneca Middle School.  

One of Dakota’s students spoke on their experience with Mrs. Coles during their three years at Seneca. They said, “She was really nice. She helped me with everything I needed. She was like the best person I could ask for during that time.” 

Mrs. Coles spoke on her transition counseling junior high students to high school students. She said that she “liked seeing students that she knew from Seneca here, and how much they have grown.” She also spoke about the many opportunities and pathways available for students here in Dakota and helping them reach their goals.  

Another thing Mrs. Coles mentioned was how helpful her colleagues have been during her transition from Seneca middle school to Dakota high school.  

A student talked about a past conversation they had with Mrs. Coles. “I was trying to switch one of my classes and she helped me. The whole time she listened while I talked and, like, explained the process I would have to go through to switch my class. I ended up switching it and she helped me do it and it was actually pretty fast.” 

It is evident how helpful Mrs. Coles has been to students and hopefully that can convince more of them that they can confide in her and ask for help. Or even with other counselors, who have also shown they are immensely helpful and will do their best to assist Dakota’s students. 

It is known that high school can be difficult for many people, and there are lots of changes. Whether it is family problems, issues with friends, or even something small like wanting to switch classes, you can ask for help and do not have to keep it to yourself. Counselors are here to help and guide you throughout the high school experience. 

 You do not have to be nervous or scared to talk to counselors, which may be the case for some people. According to Avila education, “Mental health counselors provide a confidential, safe space for people to discuss their thoughts and feelings. This can be incredibly helpful in understanding why you feel or think the way you do. Counseling can also help you learn how to cope with difficult emotions.”  This shows counselors are really helpful in many ways. So, if you need some advice or someone to talk to, try speaking to your counselor and schedule a meeting with them. It can help so much more than you think it will. 

Mrs. Coles can be found in the guidance office along with the other counselors. Stop by and give Mrs. Coles a warm welcome to Dakota! 

For more information on counseling: https://www.avila.edu/2022/12/13/5-benefits-of-working-with-a-mental-health-counselor/#:~:text=Mental%20health%20counselors%20provide%20a,to%20cope%20with%20difficult%20emotions