Personal Counseling Services & Referrals

Grade-Level Counselors: Having a bad day? The regularly-assigned, general counselors at GVHS are here to help students through tough times. We are happy to listen, do conflict resolution and help students problem-solve. All GVHS counselors are available for appointments and have some walk-in availability. If students are having a hard time getting through the day and need immediate assistance, all they have to do is report to the Guidance Tech counter and they will be seen by an available staff member.

Student Support Manager and Sierra Vista: Like the general counseling staff, the Student Support Manager (SSM) and the Sierra Vista provider are here to support students who are experiencing mental health difficulties. On a referral basis, these clinicians provide individual therapeutic services to support wellness and address goals associated with mental health concerns that might reach a more clinical level of need. Students interested in this type of counseling should see their grade-level counselor first to determine together if a referral for these services is an appropriate step.

Counseling Groups: Facilitated by the Sierra Vista counselor, counseling groups allow students to explore a variety of mental health topics that commonly affect our student population. Students are welcome to self-refer for these services and may contact their grade-level counselor for the referral link. Groups may be limited to a certain number of participants and/or may have a limited enrollment window each semester.

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Merced County Department of Mental Health: This agency provides a variety of treatment and support options, including alcohol and drug services. Services are available for residents of all ages. Visit the website or see your grade-level counselor for contact information or to obtain services.

National Alliance on Mental Illness: NAMI is for anyone concerned about or affected by mental illness. Those diagnosed as well as their families and friends are welcome to learn more and find support and resources through this group.

Local Service Providers: See your counselor for local service providers.

Hotlines and Web-Based Services

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211.org: 2-1-1 is a confidential service designed to connect people with resources in their local area. They provide links to assistance with personal crisis/emergency, housing and food, health/mental health, and even job placement. These services are also available by phone, by dialing 2-1-1. 24/7. All languages. Completely confidential.

The Nine Line/Covenant House: Need to talk? It's free and available 24/7, online or by phone. 1-800-999-9999. The Covenant House specializes in helping the homeless and anyone in crisis.

Valley Crisis Center: This organization provides support and recovery services for victims of domestic and sexual violence, and their families. They also provide information and support related to teen dating abuse and human trafficking. Prevention and education materials are available. 24-hour hotline: (209)722-4357.

DoSomething.org: "Do Something" offers a collection of hotlines in one place. Please visit the website if dealing with depression/suicidal thoughts, domestic violence/child abuse, runaway, and general crisis.

Crisis Text Line: If you are in crisis, Text START to 741-741 to begin a text conversation with someone trained in a variety of issues like bullying, family problems, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, self-harm, relationship problems, and much more. The services are anonymous and confidential.

California Smokers Hotline: Call or visit the website for FREE help to quit smoking or chewing tobacco. 1-800-NO-BUTTS (1-800-662-8887) or www.nobutts.org.

Break The Cycle! Learn about healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, how to recognize dating abuse or violence, and how to help yourself or a friend. Visit breakthecycle.org for more info, or loveisrespect.org to chat with a peer advocate, 24/7/365.