Counseling
Supporting the Whole Child
Student wellness is foundational to learning. We believe students thrive academically when they feel emotionally safe, connected, valued, and supported.
Our Counseling Program provides proactive social-emotional support through classroom instruction, small-group support, individual student meetings, collaboration with teachers and families, and school wide wellness initiatives.
Second Step Social-Emotional Learning Program (K–8)
OLL utilizes the research-based Second Step curriculum to support social-emotional learning across Kindergarten - 8th grade.
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Social-emotional learning at OLL extends beyond formal lessons and is integrated into daily classroom experiences, mentor groups, school families, collaborative learning, restorative conversations, and faith-centered community life.
Primary and intermediate students also engage in bibliotherapy, creative expression, and guided classroom activities that help students process emotions, strengthen empathy, and build self-awareness. Middle school students participate in class meetings, leadership opportunities, and reflective experiences that help them discover their strengths, voice, and role within the larger community.
Meet Our School Counselor
Mrs. Denniston is an OLL alumna herself, having spent her K–8th grade years at Our Lady of the Lake before attending Holy Names Academy.
After earning degrees in Social Work and School Counseling, she returned to OLL and is now in her 13th year as the School Counselor. Mrs. Denniston loves helping students grow socially, emotionally, and academically through classroom lessons, small groups, and one-on-one support.
Her favorite topics? Empathy, kindness, and helping every student see the unique gifts they bring to their school and community!