Counseling Services

Welcome to the Counseling Services provided by Richmond Community Schools, where we are dedicated to investing within the development and success of our students. As an integral part of our educational framework, our skilled counselors are strategically located at Will L. Lee Elementary School, Richmond Middle School, and Richmond High School. Comprising a team of highly qualified professionals, our counseling services are designed to offer personalized support to address academic, personal, and future-oriented concerns. With a commitment to excellence, our counselors strive to create a professional and confidential space for students to navigate challenges and achieve their full potential. Explore the comprehensive resources and guidance available as we work collaboratively to enhance the educational experience for every student.

Miriam May Photo

Miriam May

Richmond Middle School (Grade 4-8)
(586) 727-7552, ext. 2030
mmay@richmond.k12.mi.us

Middle School Counseling Services

Zachary Osborne Photo

Zachary Osborne

Richmond High School (Grade 9-12)
(586) 727-2509, ext. 3030
zosborne@richmond.k12.mi.us

Counseling Department Philosophy

The mission of the Counseling Department at Richmond Community Schools is to provide a comprehensive, developmental counseling program addressing the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. School counselors are student advocates who provide support to maximize their students' personal growth, potential, and academic achievements. Partnering with other educators and family members, school counselors facilitate the support system to ensure all students are equipped with the knowledge and the skills to function as productive members of society.

Our counseling services encompass a broad spectrum of support to address the diverse needs of our student body. Our qualified counselors are equipped to assist students in navigating academic challenges, managing personal concerns, and exploring future educational and career pathways. Whether students are seeking guidance on course selection, coping with stress, or planning for post-graduation endeavors, our counseling team is here to provide expert advice and support. Additionally, we encourage open communication, and students are welcome to reach out to any counselor stationed at their respective school. Parents are also invited to connect with our counseling services should they have concerns or require assistance in fostering a positive and collaborative educational environment for their children. Our commitment is to ensure that every student receives the necessary support to thrive academically, emotionally, and personally.

All students have access to the school counseling program.

  • School counseling program activities are planned and coordinated by the counseling staff.

  • Counselors are available to all students to discuss academic, social and personal matters.

  • All students have access to information about occupational and education planning.

  • A counselor's role is to help families navigate the challenges of high school and make plans for the future.

  • The student and parents are responsible for monitoring the student's educational progress with the assistance of a counselor.

  • Counselors are available to assist students and families in making decisions about academic planning and post-high school planning.

  • Counselors advocate and guide every student and act as a liaison between all members of the school community.

Bullying

Bullying is a pervasive issue that undermines the well-being and educational environment of our students. It is characterized by unwanted and aggressive behavior among school-aged children, often involving a real or perceived power imbalance. This behavior, whether physical or verbal, repeated or with the potential for repetition over time, encompasses a range of harmful actions. These actions include making threats, spreading rumors, engaging in physical or verbal attacks, and purposefully excluding someone from a group.

Richmond Community Schools upholds a strict no-tolerance policy on bullying. We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students. To reinforce this commitment, we encourage the reporting of any incidences of bullying. By promptly addressing and intervening in reported cases, we aim to create a school atmosphere that promotes respect, empathy, and cooperation. We understand the importance of collaborative efforts between students, parents, and school staff to eradicate bullying and ensure that our educational community remains a secure space for learning and personal growth.

For additional information on recognizing and addressing bullying, we recommend visiting StopBullying.gov, a valuable resource that provides insights, tools, and strategies for preventing and responding to bullying situations. Together, let us work towards cultivating a culture of kindness and understanding, where every student can thrive without fear of harassment or intimidation.

StopBullying.gov

Crisis Information

24 Hour Crisis Prevention:

(855) 927-4747    Macomb County Crisis Center 
(866) 331-9474    
Teen Dating Abuse Hotline
(855) 427-2736    
National Parent Helpline
(586) 465-1212    
Family Youth Interventions
(586) 463-6990    
Turning Point Crisis Line

Abuse / Family Violence:

(855) 444-3911   Children's Protective Services
(586) 463-6990   
Turning Point - Domestic Violence
(586) 465-1212   
Family Youth Interventions
(866) 331-9474   
Teen Dating Abuse Hotline

Alcohol & Drug Abuse:

(888) 425-2666   Alateen/Alanon Family Groups
(586) 541-CARE  
CARE of Southeast Michigan
(844) 842-7824   
Drug Rehab Parent Info
(844) 842-7824   Drug Rehab Teen Help

External Counseling Services:

(586) 541-CARE  CARE of Southeast Michigan
(855) 966-2264  Comm. Mental Health Access Center
(810) 985-5125  
Blue Water Counseling, Fort Gratiot
(586) 465-1212  
Family Youth Interventions
(586) 727-5529  
Macomb Family Services, Richmond
(800) 395-3223  
New Oakland Family Centers
(810) 966-0099  
Renewal Christian Counseling Center
(866) 554-9656  
Harbor Oaks Hospital 24 Hr Help Line

Residential Care Facilities for Crisis Care:

(586) 806-4678  Safehaus
(855) 738-8198  
Harbor Oaks Hospital
(800) 401-2727  
Havenwyck Hospital

CARE of Southeastern Michigan

CARE of Southeastern Michigan Logo Image

+ 1 (586) 541-CARE (2773)

The district offers free counseling services for preK-12 grade students through CARE of Southeastern Michigan.  Counseling services may be accessed by parents / guardians, or students 14 and older, at any time by calling CARE of Southeastern Michigan. 

Each Richmond student would receive up to five (5) free counseling sessions, per topic.  When parents / guardians (or students 14 and older) call, tell the operator that you are from Richmond Community Schools and their trained staff will connect your family with an appropriate counselor.

MCCMH Mobile Crisis

MCCMH Mobile Crisis

+ 1 (586) 307-9100

When Should I Call?

There are several different reasons that Mobile Crisis can be requested:

  • A child is experiencing a mental health crisis, and assistance is needed in managing the situation.

  • A child is experiencing suicidal idealization and / or participating in self-injurious behaviors.

  • It is reasonably expected that a child within the near future will physically injure themselves, or another individual, either intentionally or unintentionally.

  • A child exhibits risk behaviors and / or emotional symptoms which are noticeable from their usual behavior.

  • Requires immediate assistance to help prevent when possible, taking the child to the hospital and / or calling the police.