Mrs. McHugh's Counseling Corner

Hello and Welcome to the counselor’s corner. My name is Merika McHugh and I am thrilled to be the counselor at Alta Vista Elementary. A little about myself, I grew up overseas in Singapore and moved to Los Angeles to attend Loyola Marymount University. I received my bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in School Counseling with a Pupil Services Credential from LMU. I now live in Redondo Beach with my husband Mike and our two children Brendan and Molly. When I am not working I love cooking for friends and family, going for long runs with my dog Sam and relaxing with a good book at the beach.

Prior to joining the Wildcat team, I was a high school counselor in Palos Verdes for 14 years helping teenagers navigate high school and discover their post-secondary paths. While I enjoyed working with teenagers, I am excited about this opportunity to work with our youngest learners, teaching them life long social, emotional and academic skills. I am looking forward to another great year at Alta Vista.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.

Thank you!

Mrs. McHugh

[email protected]

(310)798-8650 ext 3111

Office Hours: 8:00AM-3:15PM

Monday-Wednesday and Friday

(Please note I am not in the office on Thursdays)

Wildcat Comprehensive Counseling Program

As a counselor I believe in providing a whole child approach to counseling and working with students in the areas of academics, career and social/emotional development so they can achieve success in school and in life. The Alta Vista comprehensive counseling program includes the following:

Tier 1 Monthly Classroom Lessons on topics such as healthy friendships, kindness, mental health/wellness, self-regulation, conflict resolution and career exploration.

Tier 2 Small Group Counseling. Groups are formed based on staff and parent referrals. Small Groups include 2-4 students and meet weekly for 30 minutes for 6-8 sessions. Group topics range in focus from friendships skills, social skills, self-regulation, coping skills, anger management, grief and changing families.

Tier 3 Individual Counseling. Individual counseling is provided as needed based on staff and parent referrals. Individual counseling is usually 30 minutes every other week for 6-8 sessions. Please note, it is school based counseling and NOT therapy.

WANT TO MAKE A REFERRAL FOR COUNSELING?

Please use the below link to submit an electronic referral form. (Hardcopies of this referral form are also available in the main office)

Parent/Gaurdian Referral Form

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS REFERRALS

RBUSD Social Emotional Resources and Information:

RBUSD Social Emotional Resources

Merika McHugh

Email:

[email protected]

Phone: (310)798-8650 ext 3111

Office Hours: 8:00AM-3:15PM

Monday-Wednesday and Friday

(Please note I am not in the office on Thursdays)

Counselor Connection Monthly Newsletters 2023-24

Counselor Connection Monthly Newsletters 2022-2023

Counseling Office Wish List:

Below is a list of items that I could use when working with students for counseling. Donations are always appreciated!

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1Y2I6XD4K1APO?ref=cm_sw_em_r_un_un_Lx6zCnbtAutgS