Support Services - Counseling, OT, Speech/Language
The Clinical Department is comprised of three Counselors, an Occupational Therapist, an Instructional Support Teacher, and our School Nurse. The department meets weekly to discuss the emotional and social needs of each student at Hill Top. This allows the department to help the students be successful in all areas of their day-to-day challenges while living with learning differences.
Marla Mathis- Director of Clinical Support
Michael Clarke- Counselor
Sabrina Moore - Counselor
Christina Soleil- Counselor
Michelle Trusty- Occupational Therapist
Susan Butler- Nurse
Lisa Woodcock - Instructional Support Teacher
Perspectives (Group Counseling)
What is Perspectives? All students at Hill Top are assigned to a group comprised of approximately 6 to 8 students. The groups meet twice weekly throughout the school year. All group sessions are encouraged to be confidential to help the students feel comfortable when sharing about personal experiences and day-to-day challenges.
Some group topics include:
- Social relationships
- Learning style
- Empathy
- Conflict resolution
- Self awareness
While the topics will be addressed by all of the groups, the focus will vary depending on the age and maturity levels of the group members.
Occupational Therapy
Hill Top’s full-time occupational therapist provides consultative and direct services. Students requiring direct services see out OT for 40 minutes per week in either one-on-one or small group sessions to work on OT goals that are student specific. All Hill Top students are able to receive consultative OT services as needed.
Speech Language Therapy
Speech language services are provided by GrowNOW Therapy Services, LLC (http://grownowtherapy.com/), a private practice owned by Michael McLeod, MA, CCC-SLP located in Media. PA. Throughout the school year, Michael provides unique, innovative, and engaging Speech & Language and specialized ADHD/Executive Function therapy at Hill Top. This is a private pay service with a fee.
GrowNOW will be offering free consultations for any families who have concern’s regarding their child’s speech & language, social pragmatics, executive functions, anxiety, or life skills. After the consultation, you will speak directly with Michael to learn clinical recommendations and potential plans for therapy. GrowNOW focuses on a client-centered approach to therapy, family teaching, and multi-disciplinary collaboration. Michael is the creator of the innovative GrowNOW Model of care - fostering intrinsic motivation, resilience, and the Growth Mindset. To learn more about Michael’s private services at Hill Top you can reach him at: [email protected] or (631) 332-3801.
Resources for Mental Health Emergencies for Adolescents
1) Brooke Glen Behavioral Hospital (Fort Washington) 215-641-5404
2) Devereux-Children’s Behavioral Health (Malvern) 800-935-6789
3) Foundations Behavioral Health (Doylestown) 610-313-1015
4) The Horsham Clinic (Ambler) 215-643-7800
