Counseling

MMS Counseling Theme

In a world that has become increasingly negative and disrespectful, we want to focus on positivity, encouraging others, and being sources of light to ourselves and others. This year will focus on KINDNESS!  

K- Kindness is the key to happiness. 

I- If someone is down, help them up. 

N- Never give up on yourself or anyone else. 

D- Do something kind for yourself and someone else.  

N- Never stop helping yourself and others.  

E- Everyone can join in. Invite those who are alone to be with you.   

S- Sharing is caring. Be generous with kind words and actions.   

S- Say kind words to yourself and others.  

Meet the School Counseling Team 

Samantha Larch 6th Grade

Ryan Newby 7th Grade

Rhiannon Trull 8th Grade

Ryan Newby

Ryan Newby - 7th grade counselor

Phone: 208-855-4243
Email: newby.ryan@westada.org

Degrees and Certifications:

·         Masters of Science, Counselor Education
Northwest Nazarene University

·         Bachelors of Arts, Communication
Boise State University

·         Licensed Professional Counselor

·         National Certified Counselor

What a pleasure it is to be a counselor at MMS.  I enjoy helping students navigate through the ambiguity and confusion that often accompanies students during the ages of 11-14. I feel so fortunate to be working with the talented and devoted teachers, administration, my fellow counselors, and especially your students here at MMS. When I am not at MMS I enjoy spending time with my wife, four boys, playing baseball, coaching, and traveling. MMS is a great place to be! 

Student request to see Mr. Newby

Taylor Steele

Rhiannon Trull - 8th grade counselor

Phone: 208-855-4242
Email: trull.rhiannon@westada.org

Degrees and Certifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Boise State University

  • Master of Arts in Counseling, Boise State University

    I am very excited to join the MMS team for this upcoming school year. I have been with West Ada as a School Counselor for the last 6 years. When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time outdoors and with my family. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know you and your student! 

Student request to see Mrs. Trull

Emily Miller

Samantha Larch - 6th grade counselor

Phone: 208-855-4241
Email: larch.samantha@westada.org

Degrees and Certifications:
Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Boise State University
Master of Arts, Counseling
Boise State University

I'm looking forward to joining the team at MMS! I have a passion for working with students and their families. When I'm not at MMS, I enjoy spending time with my two Beagles and being outside! I especially love the summer time when I can go hiking, camping, and paddle boarding. I'm excited to meet you all!

Student request to see Ms. Larch

Cindy Pacheco

Cindy Pacheco

Phone: 208-855-4240
Email: pacheco.cindy@westada.org

It is my privilege to be a part of Meridian Middle School. I am fortunate to support the counseling team as they support each and every student at MMS!

About Our Program

School counselors are vital members of the education team found in each West Ada school building. Through the implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program, school counselors assist all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development and career development, to ensure that today's students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow. School counselors provide short-term individual counseling, group counseling, and guidance curriculum. School counselors also help connect students and their families to a variety of community resources. 

Each school counselor or school social worker has a Pupil Personnel Certificate from the Idaho State Department of Education. The minimum education requirement for this certificate is a master’s degree in school counseling or social work. 

School Counseling 

The School Counselor:

  • Promotes a safe, caring, climate and a positive school experience for all students

  • Guides and supports students with personal, social, and academic goals

  • Encourages students to have healthy perceptions of themselves

  • Inspires students to show kindness, respect, and empathy toward others

  • Advocates for students, and empowers students to make positive choices, by using appropriate tools for problem-solving and decision making

The Role of the School Counselor:

  • Offers short-term, solution focused, individual and group counseling (group counseling is based on availability).

  • Teaches whole group class lessons with district approved curriculum

  • Observes students in various settings

  • Consults and collaborates with parents, staff, students, and community agencies

  • Provides community referrals and resources for families

  • Coordinates Section 504 Accommodation Plans

  • Provides support during a crisis

The School Counselor's Referral Process:

  • Referrals typically come from parents, staff, and students

  • Students can stop by the counselor’s office (with teacher permission), and fill out a request slip, or bring their own note, and place it in the counselor’s confidential mailbox. Or, students can ask their teacher to contact the school counselor for them.

  • Staff and parents may contact the counselor at any time via phone or email

 Note: For issues beyond the scope of a school counselor, and/or when more intensive, long-term services may be needed, parents may request referrals for outside counseling services

Community School Liaison

Mikaela Dant

Mikaela Dant

Email: dant.mikaela@westada.org

Hello! It is an honor to be here at MMS as the new Community Schools Liaison! I am looking forward to finding creative ways to help West Ada students and their families thrive. When I am not hanging out in the MMS Community Corner or up in the Chief's Closet, I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and my two cats.. I also love being out in nature, watching movies/TV shows, and making art. I look forward to getting to know you all! 

The Community School Liaison:

  • Supports families by organizing the Chief's Closet and food pantry.

  • Supports families in navigating West Ada systems.

  • Supports families by helping them access community services.

  • Works with the community organizations to bring enrichment opportunities for students and parents to MMS.

Link to request resources