Counselors Corner

Michele Branch is the School Counselor for Stacey Middle School and is in her 25^th year working for Westminster School District. In 2024, Michele was honored by the Orange County Department of Education as the “2024 Orange County Middle School Counselor of the Year!” She meets with students individually and in groups within the scope of academic support, social-emotional development, college and career planning and crisis response. She works in collaboration with staff, administration, parents and community partners to ensure students are both successful and safe. She supports many programs at Stacey such as AVID, PBIS, and TUPE.

Stacey Support Staff

Counseling Department Vision

The vision of the Stacey Middle School Counseling Department is that all students will be empowered to reach their maximum potential by having access to a comprehensive program that addresses academic, personal/social, and career goals. An environment will be promoted to encourage personal inquiry and growth, social responsibility, and academic excellence. School counselors believe that every student can succeed through the collaborative efforts of school, home, and community leading to responsible and productive citizenship in the 21st century.

COUGARS! Request a meeting with Mrs. Branch

Dear Cougars:

Stacey Cougars! If you would like to schedule a meeting with me, please drop by my office (G2A,) send me a message through Jupiter Ed or complete a form by clicking HERE.

Remember: You MATTER to me!

Please note: Services provided to students are confidential. However, if a student is in emotional or physical danger or causes harm to themselves or others, I am mandated by law to seek additional resources and/or report to make sure students are safe.

We care about our Stacey Cougars and want you to be successful and safe!

Community Resources for Parents

Westminster Family Resource Center

(714) 903-1331

Parent Education, counseling, domestic violence education and intervention, emergency assistance programs and links to many resources to meet family needs.

Boys and Girls Club of Westminster

(714) 379-0097

After School Programs, homework assistance, parenting programs

Abrazar, Inc. Community Center

(714) 893-3581

Services for seniors, transportation, employment training, youth program, support groups, food distribution, and more

Vietnamese Community of Orange County

(714) 839-4441

Counseling, parenting classes, referrals to many other resources

Free Quit Smoking & Vaping Services in Orange County

1-866-NEW-LUNG

Mobile Crisis Assessment Team (CAT)

Call OC Links 24/7 at 855-625-4657

They will do an assessment if you are concerned for your child’s immediate safety.

(Medi-cal provider)

If you are concerned for your child’s immediate safety, you may contact the CAT team for a safety assessment and a team member will come to your home for an evaluation. You may also take him/her to the nearest Emergency Room.

Orange County Health Care Agency

Behavioral Health Services and Clinics

(855) OC-Links (625-4657)

Children and Youth Behavioral Health (CYBH)

Provides a broad range of services for behaviorally, emotionally or mentally disordered children and adolescents which include evaluation, therapy, medication management, crisis intervention and collateral services to parents and families. Referral for hospitalization or residential treatment, consultation to schools and other agencies, coordination with private and public services and case management for those placed in hospitals or other 24-hour settings are also provided. CYBH services are provided through outpatient clinics, residential programs, crisis services, full service partnerships (FSP), and specialized services.

Behavioral Health Services - Provides a culturally-competent and client-centered system of behavioral health services for all eligible county residents in need of mental health care and/or treatment for alcohol and other drug abuse.

Resources and Materials for a Healthy Mindset & Self-Care

September is Suicide Prevention Month

Prevention: It Starts With You! Parenting Seminar

May Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May, is a time to highlight the importance of mental well-being and behavioral health for everyone, especially students. It encourages open conversations about mental health, reduces stigma, and promotes access to resources and support. Schools can use this month to educate staff and students about coping skills, stress management, and the importance of seeking help. Through activities, discussions, and outreach, Mental Health Awareness Month helps create a more supportive and understanding school environment where all feel safe and heard. Please find local and national behavioral/mental health resources to share with your community.

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