Chelsea Doerger
College Counselor
About Me
- Mother of four: Ages 12 – 29
- Lived in four states: OH, CT, CA, SC
- B.A. – Miami University of Ohio
- J.D. – Northern Kentucky University
- M. Ed (School Counseling),
- University of Southern California
- Licensed and certified in Georgia.
Primary Functions
- Help students discern skills and interests for potential careers through guided lessons.
- Provide student support through the college application process.
- Track student academic progress and ensure college prerequisites are met.
- Serve as a liaison with college admissions representatives.
- Research and provide information on financial aid and scholarships for families.
- Assist with standardized testing onsite.
Welcome Saints! I am a mother of four in my 29th year of parenting, with two sons and two daughters. I am also a new grandparent to a beautiful little grandson. Our family has lived in nearly every region of the country including Ohio, California, Connecticut, and South Carolina. My academic background includes a B.A. from Miami University (1994), a J.D. from Northern Kentucky University (2000), and a M.Ed./School Counseling from the University of Southern California (2021). I returned to school after many years of parenting due to an increased concern for the mental health of young people in our country. It is my hope and prayer that I can integrate my parenting skills and experienced perspective with students in the school setting.
My theoretical approach in counseling will likely vary given the age and development of the student, as well the context in which the student navigates challenge and growth. I enjoy the structure of the Gestalt theory and look forward to utilizing the core techniques within individual and group counseling intervention. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a useful theoretical approach for students working through challenges that stem from unhealthy beliefs and attitudes. Person-centered theory is often very effective with older students in need of refining self -regulation skills as they transition into adulthood.
I joined the SVA family two years ago. My experience before then had been my work as an intern within the school counseling program at the University of California. I have worked within a Title 1 elementary school in San Jose, California, St. Vincent’s Academy, and a Title 1 virtual charter school serving middle school students in Washington, D.C. I enjoy working with parents and students navigating learning differences, health challenges, or faced with a family centered crisis. I believe in a holistic approach to wellness and encourage students to work toward academic and career goals while striving for optimal social, emotional, spiritual, and physical health.
Please reach out anytime for questions or concerns related to college and career readiness.
