• Social-Emotional High School Counselors: What They Do and How to Use Their Support

    What They Do: 

    • Emotional Support: Help students who are dealing with personal issues (e.g., stress, anxiety, family problems, bullying).

    • Coping Skills: Teach you strategies to handle stress, anxiety, and difficult emotions in healthy ways.

    • Crisis Intervention: Assist in emergency situations (e.g., self-harm, emotional breakdowns).

    • Social Skills: Support you in building positive relationships, improving communication, and resolving conflicts.

    • Referrals to Professionals: If needed, they can connect you with outside therapists or mental health professionals.

    When to Use Personal Counseling Resources:

    • If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

    • If you're experiencing bullying or social difficulties.

    • If you're going through family or personal challenges.

    • If you need someone to talk to about your feelings or mental health.

    Meet Your Social-Emotional School Counselors 

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Ms. O'Brien

My name is Siobhan O'Brien. I am a school social worker at Central High School. I support students socially and emotionally and help them overcome barriers so that they can reach their full academic potential. I believe it is important also to collaborate closely with families through community outreach to promote student achievement. I have been privileged to spend my entire career working with students and families in Providence. I am thankful now to be part of Central High School and to be working with talented teaching and support staff on behalf of our students.

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Ms. Vessella

My name is Ms. Vessella. I have been a School Social Worker in Providence Public Schools since 2009 and at Central High School since 2011.  I love being a Central Knight.  If you ever see the Knight mascot walking around… that is me!   I believe the foundation of acdemic growth is supporting the social emotional needs of students and families as well as creating a positive school culture. One way I do this is through Pet Therapy. Freddy is our school therapy dog who comes every Friday and to almost all school events! We both thrive on being part of the Central community. Once a Knight, Always a Knight!

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Mrs. Sherman

Hi! My name is Mrs. Sherman and I am so fortunate to be the School Psychologist at Central High School.  I have been at Central for 14 years, but I have been a School Psychologist with PPSD for 25 years!!  I am here to support our students with whatever challenge they may be facing at school; academically, socially, emotionally, or even to just provide a calm space for students to relax and regroup.  As a School Psychologist, I also complete psychological evaluations with students through the special education referral process. Whatever my day brings, it always gives me great joy to watch my students overcome barriers and shine bright!

  • Remember: Counselors are here to support you in all aspects of your high school journey, whether you're managing emotions or working toward your academic goals. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help—both types of counselors are important resources for your success!