Counseling Services - Health - Safety - and Support - McDonogh School

Counseling Services

At McDonogh, we are committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally. We recognize that their needs sometimes extend beyond the classroom, which is why our team of full-time counselors is available to guide students and their families through life's challenges.

McDonogh's counselors are vital members of each division, who partner with students, families, faculty, and administrators to build a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all. Their services are wide-ranging—from one-on-one meetings and crisis support to classroom presentations and small group activities. Whether offering referrals to outside resources or advocating for students' well-being, our counselors are committed to ensuring every child has the tools they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

Lower School: Building a Strong Foundation

In the Lower School, our approach focuses on building a strong social and emotional foundation that will serve students throughout their lives. Through engaging classroom lessons, we proactively teach essential skills like kindness, empathy, friendship, and problem-solving. We believe in early partnership, working closely with parents and teachers to ensure each child feels understood, confident, and secure as they begin their McDonogh journey.

Middle School: Navigating a Time of Growth

The Middle School years are a pivotal time of transition, and the counseling program is designed to guide students through this new chapter. Our focus is on helping students develop greater independence, self-advocacy, and resilience. Support is delivered through individual meetings to discuss academic or social challenges, small group discussions on relevant topics like peer relationships and digital citizenship, and division-wide presentations. The counseling program is a key resource for students learning to manage their time, organize their work, and handle more complex social situations, providing a safe and confidential space for growth.

Upper School: Fostering Balance and Resilience

In the Upper School, the counseling program evolves to help students balance increasing academic rigor with their personal well-being, offering targeted support for stress management, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and navigating personal challenges. Our program ensures students have a non-judgmental advocate, empowering them with the self-awareness and resilience to succeed in demanding environments and to emerge as confident and compassionate young adults.

Meet Our Dedicated Counseling Services Team

Michael Green

Director of School Counseling

443-544-7405
mgreen@mcdonogh.org

Caitlin Cork

Associate Director of Upper School Counseling

443-544-7411
ccork@mcdonogh.org

Jasmine Crandol

Upper School Counselor

443-544-7414
jcrandol@mcdonogh.org

Brenna LaRose

Middle School Counselor

443-544-7305
blarose@mcdonogh.org

Dan Wagner

Lower School Counselor

443-544-7204
dwagner@mcdonogh.org