By Amanda Malnik

In early December, a new face will be walking the halls of Oak Hall. Darcy Pare is the new school counselor for the Upper and Middle Schools. 

While this is Pare’s first year as an Upper School counselor, she has five years of experience in the mental health field. “My position within those five years allowed me to work with parents, faculty members, and students within school settings to provide therapy, advocacy, and collaboration to promote the overall wellbeing of the student,” she elaborated. Pare concentrated on psychology and mental health during her educational journey. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, majoring in psychology and criminology. She continued her education at the University of Florida, where she earned dual degrees with a Master of Education, and Education Specialist with a focus in mental health counseling. 

“As a school counselor, I am here to listen,” Pare said. Her role at Oak Hall includes her having input when creating plans to address and solve problems. “I provide short-term individual and group counseling in the areas of academics, career, and personal/social development,” Pare continued. She will work with parents, teachers, and administrators on behalf of a student to promote and assist student success and wellbeing. Her office is a “judgment-free zone” where any student can visit if they need her assistance. If she is not in her office or available, a message can be left at her door. If a situation is urgent, however, that situation becomes her top priority. She will listen, problem solve, and give guidance. Her motto as a school counselor is, “I can’t promise to fix all your problems, but I can promise you will not have to face them alone.”

Welcome to Oak Hall!