Counseling & Wellness

School Counseling Services at St. Michael Catholic School
Partnering with Families to Support the Whole Child

At St. Michael Catholic School, our mission is to partner with families in forming disciples of Christ who are spiritually grounded, academically prepared, and emotionally supported. As part of that mission, our school counseling program is designed to nurture the social and emotional well-being of our students. 

While our in-school counseling program is not a long-term service, it is designed to provide short-term, targeted support for students who are experiencing challenges that affect their daily success at school. Our goal is to walk alongside students and their families, offering guidance, skill-building opportunities, and encouragement.  

We are blessed to have four school counselors serving our Preschool through 8th Grade students and families.

Students may qualify for school counseling if they are experiencing:

• Difficulty regulating emotions or behaviors that disrupt learning
• Ongoing peer conflict or challenges with social interactions
• Family transitions, grief, or personal stress affecting academic performance
• Struggles with self-confidence, coping strategies, or communication
• Anxiety, worry, or school-related concerns that interfere with engagement

• A parent or guardian may contact their child’s classroom teacher to request support
• A teacher or staff member may reach out to a student’s family to recommend counseling
• Families may also contact our Director of Student Services, Kate Firnstahl,  directly to initiate a referral

Small Group Offerings and Details
As part of our commitment to supporting the whole child, we’re excited to offer small group sessions for students this fall. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for students to grow in emotional awareness, build resilience, and strengthen their social skills.

Link for 2025-2026 Small Group Offerings and Consent Form

Ongoing Partnership with Families
Even if a student does not qualify for school counseling under this short-term model, we remain committed to supporting the whole child in partnership with their family. Our team is available to:

• Consult with families to share resources and strategies for at-home support

• Provide referrals to out-of-school support, which could include our school counselors.  We will have some in-school opportunities for students to be seen under their private insurance plans. (Please reach out to Dr. Kathleen Massmann for scheduling).

• Provide referrals to trusted community providers for more intensive or long-term services

• Collaborate with classroom teachers to implement proactive supports within the school day

Offer parent education opportunities and emotional wellness guidance We believe every child is a gift from God and that families are their first and most important teachers. At St. Michael Catholic School, we are honored to walk alongside our families in faith and love, providing care, guidance, and encouragement through every season of a child’s growth.  And as always, if we can be a resource for you at the moment or at any point throughout the year, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here for you.

2025-2026 Counseling Team: Dr. Kathleen Massmann, Linnaea Lindahl, Casssie Herrington, Rachel Panek, and Ellie Wingham.

Link for Counseling Bios

Free Summer Meals for Kids

When school isn’t in session during the summer, kids 18 and under can receive free meals at locations that include park and recreation sites, community centers, libraries and schools. No registration is required.  See the Summer Eats MN website or the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Sitefinder for information on finding locations.