COUNSELING CENTER
Counseling Center Staff
Hollyn serves as the Director of Counseling Services, making sure every student has the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. She leads our counseling team, works with staff and families to develop clear support plans for students facing ongoing academic, social, or emotional challenges, and steps in directly if a student requires immediate care. Hollyn also partners closely with teachers and parents to keep our approach to student well-being proactive, compassionate, and grounded in best practices. From training staff on social-emotional learning to connecting with community providers, she helps ensure that every student feels seen, supported, and set up for success.
Click here to learn more about each member of our counseling center staff.
The Counseling Center
The Calm Corner
The Counseling Center
ASOP opened a brand new Counseling Center in August 2024 that is dedicated to the emotional well-being and mental health of our students. As an Eagle Scout service project, this welcoming environment was thoughtfully created through the dedication and hard work of Alyiah Thompson, the daughter of Director of Admissions/history teacher Travis Thompson.
One of the key features of the Counseling Center is the Calm Corner, a special area designed to help students regulate their emotions. Whether a student needs a moment to breathe, reflect, or simply take a break, the Calm Corner provides a peaceful environment with tools and resources for mindfulness and relaxation. It’s a space where students can step away from the busyness of school life and return to their day feeling more centered and focused.
Pathways
Additionally, ASOP is excited to bring back Pathways, our small groups opportunity that focuses on mental health learning. These groups provide students with a supportive space to explore topics such as anxiety, stress management, and building confidence. Pathways is an opportunity for students to learn valuable skills for their emotional well-being in a group setting, where they can share experiences and support one another.
Ambassador Program
As part of our commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for new students, ASOP launched an Ambassador Program. This program pairs incoming students with peer mentors who can offer guidance, support, and a friendly face as they navigate their new environment. The Ambassador Program is designed to help new students feel welcome and connected from day one, fostering a sense of community and belonging. It’s also a valuable leadership opportunity for our Ambassadors, who participate in monthly training sessions with Hollyn and Travis to strengthen skills in leadership, teamwork, confidentiality, professionalism, and mentoring.
We believe that the Counseling Center will be a cornerstone of our school’s commitment to mental health and well-being. Whether students need a moment of calm, a supportive conversation, or a deeper exploration of mental health, we are here to help them on their journey.
For more information or to schedule a meeting with our Director of Counseling, Hollyn Smith, contact her at hollyn@acceleratedschoolsop.org. We look forward to supporting our students as they grow, learn, and thrive.