The Student News Site of Westborough High School

The Lobby Observer

The Student News Site of Westborough High School

The Lobby Observer

The Student News Site of Westborough High School

The Lobby Observer

Countdown to April Break!
Have a Wonderful Break!

Counseling with a Flare: WHS School Adjustment Counselor Ms. Parteleno

Family troubles? Stressed out? Friendship or relationship quarrels? If you’re a student at Westborough High School, a journey down to the room of Ms. Ceil Parteleno, our new adjustment counselor, is certainly in order.

Beginning her work at the high school this fall, this social worker is no rookie. “Ms. P” (as students fondly call her) has offered a hand in the mental health field for almost 30 years, advocating the belief in the healing powers of creative expression.

This idea might have derived in her childhood, in Ohio, where she claims she experienced the value of participating in various theatre productions. Through these experiences, she learned the importance of coping through the use of making a contribution.

Ms. P has a degree in art therapy and masters in social work from Boston University. Her resume includes jobs working in Boston Public Schools to a program in Somerville helping females cope with social problems.

Fortunately, for Westborough High, this credited social worker is now available to us on a daily basis.

Since beginning her work at the high school, Ms. P has met many students looking for some help in managing their stressors. While initially she was reaching out to students, they now emerge in her room looking for a time to meet and chat. She sees about ten students a day; and she tries to help them “turn something bad into something good.”

Ms. P feels strongly about the impact compassion can have for a teenager. “I help students feel understood and acknowledged in the difficulties and the hardness of what they are going through. When young people feel understood, they are more likely to look at healthy ways of dealing with their situation.”

Among the teens, issues range from help making healthy choices regarding drugs and alcohol, peer pressure, family/friend troubles, academic/activity overloads to everyday conflicts. Students should not hesitate to pay a visit to Ms. P, whether it is for a long-term arrangement, or just a short visit.

Students are encouraged to first see their guidance counselors if they are interested in making an appointment with Ms. Parteleno. Meetings can be scheduled when it is best for the student’s schedule, not interfering with crucial classroom education.

We are fortunate enough to have such an empathetic and insightful counselor at the school, why not take advantage of what she has to offer?

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