PCDS Upper School

Getting support during the school day

What PCDS publishes about student support, who can help you make a connection, and what you can say.

Where to begin

Choose the person you can reach.

You do not need to diagnose the problem or prepare the full story first. Ask one trusted adult to help you make the next connection.

Upper School counselor

PCDS states that counseling services are available in each division. Ask the Upper School Office for the current counselor and how to arrange a conversation.

Your advisor

An advisor can be a familiar first person to approach about a personal, social, or school concern—and can help connect you with the right person.

Dean or Head of Upper School

PCDS guidance has directed Upper School students to these roles for social or personal concerns. Ask the Upper School Office if you are unsure whom to contact.

PCDS Health Center

The school handbook says the Health Center is staffed by registered nurses during school hours and is part of the Emergency Response Team.

What PCDS says about privacy

The school handbook describes counseling as confidential with possible exceptions. A counselor may share need-to-know information with parents, teachers, or administrators to support you, and must act when there is a safety concern.

Ask before you share

“What can stay between us? What might you need to share? Will you tell me before you contact someone else?”

School counseling is described by PCDS as short-term support, not diagnosis or treatment. Outside care may be recommended.

Words you can borrow

You can say it simply.

Starting with the Upper School Office

“I’m looking for the current Upper School counselor. Could you tell me how to contact them?”

Talking to your advisor

“Could we talk privately? I’m having a hard time and I’m not sure who at school can help.”

Before sharing details

“Before I tell you more, can you explain what you would need to share, and with whom?”

Supporting a friend

“I’m worried about a friend’s safety. I need help figuring out what to do next.”

Names and locations can change.

Ask the Upper School Office for the current counselor, location, hours, and appointment process. This page intentionally does not guess.

Open the official PCDS faculty and staff directory
Use the check-in

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