Community

Counseling & Wellness

The Denver Academy Counseling Department is comprised of professional counselors who serve the entire Denver Academy community (grades 2-12). Counselors provide support to students and families by way of individual sessions, counseling groups, character education lessons, and parent education opportunities. The Counseling Team collaborates with teachers and families to provide social and emotional support to students on a day-to-day basis. Referrals to the department can be initiated by a student, a parent, or a teacher/administrator. Denver Academy students are entitled to three hour-long counseling sessions per school year. Additional brief “check-in” appointments are available as needed. If support is needed beyond Denver Academy’s resources, counselors will work with teachers, students, and families to create a plan for success which may include referrals to recommended outside professionals.

Parents must sign a Disclosure, Release, and Consent for Treatment form as required by law. The Disclosure, Release, and Consent for Treatment form is available during Online Check-In or from the Counseling and Wellness Department.

Frequently Asked Questions

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

How do I get my student in to see a counselor?

Students, teachers, administrators, and parents can all request appointments with their respective counselors. You may contact the Counseling and Wellness Department at counselingstaff@denveracademy.org or 303-777-5870.
What is the role of a school counselor at DA?

The school counselor’s role is to provide support for students during the school day in order to create a positive learning environment for all students.
When are outside referrals provided?

Referrals are provided if teachers and/or counselors are not able to fulfill the student's needs and the student needs support beyond the school day. Referrals also may be provided if more information is needed about the student and testing is recommended.
Why do I need to get the disclosure form signed?

Colorado law dictates that this form be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
When do I need to have the disclosure form signed and turned in?

There is no deadline, but we request all forms are signed and turned in within the first month of the school year so we are prepared to assist your student if needed.
Where can I find the disclosure form?

The Counseling Disclosure Form is available to be signed electronically during Online Check-In. Alternatively, the disclosure form is available in the Counseling and Wellness Department office. You may also email counselingstaff@denveracademy.org in order to request a form be emailed to you directly.
Why does the Counseling and Wellness Department host parent education groups?

Denver Academy takes great care to work in partnership with students and their families. As a community of learners we welcome new opportunities to learn and grow together.
When is the Counseling and Wellness Department open?

The Counseling Department is open Monday-Friday during school hours 8:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Parent Education Opportunities

The Denver Academy Counseling Department is here not just for students, but for parents as well. We host parent education topics throughout the school year. Parent education opportunities will be featured with the date and location on this web page and in the DA Dateline and weekly event emails.

Resources

Meet the Counseling & Wellness Team

List of 3 members.

Karan Steuart

Head of Counseling & Wellness

(303) 777-5870 ext 213

Read Bio
Karan received her bachelor's degree in human services from Metropolitan State University where her passion for working in the area of community mental health and addictions research developed. After numerous years of assisting adolescents and adults in various settings, she recognized that individual needs include the needs of family, community, and overall systems. Inspired to move forward in developing a more comprehensive understanding of mental health care, Karan went on to receive her master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addictions Counselor in the State of Colorado. Something she believes is that positive growth in life flows when vulnerability can be seen as an opportunity and that discomfort precedes strength and resiliency. Her role is to join individuals to take notice of these qualities and assist in moving forward.
Sophia Carpiniello

Counselor

(303) 777-5870 ext.

Read Bio
Sophia is a licensed school counselor, a yoga teacher, and an artist. Sophia's passions for education, wellness, and creativity led her to pursue school counseling. She studied psychology, business, and studio art at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Penn., and then taught elementary school in New York City. While teaching, she earned her Master's in School Counseling from NYU. Sophia has worked in a variety of settings including a residential therapeutic program, public schools, and charter schools in both NYC and Denver.

Sophia is thrilled to be a part of the DA community and support students' social-emotional well-being. In her free time, she enjoys painting, knitting, skiing, and learning new skills like wheel throwing and guitar.
Kristy Vance

Counselor

(303) 777-5870 ext

Read Bio
Kristy Vance received her bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in elementary and special education from William Smith College. Kristy taught third grade before pursuing her passion for special education and working at The Joshua School and Firefly Autism with students with developmental disabilities. Working closely with talented professionals, families, and unique learners allowed Kristy to discover that a career in social work would allow her to fulfill her professional goals of helping students and their networks of support to close the gaps between school, home, and the community. Kristy received her master's in social work from the University of Denver. Kristy's work spans from early childhood social skills and trauma work through teenage and young adult behavioral and academic support. She has worked in a variety of settings including public and private schools, community mental health centers, nonprofit academic enrichment programs, and private practice.

Find Us

4400 E. Iliff Ave. Denver, CO 80222
Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870
Admissions: 303.777.5161
General: info@denveracademy.org

About

Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DA inspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education.

Contact Us

Counseling & Wellness

Frequently Asked Questions

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

How do I get my student in to see a counselor?

What is the role of a school counselor at DA?

When are outside referrals provided?

Why do I need to get the disclosure form signed?

When do I need to have the disclosure form signed and turned in?

Where can I find the disclosure form?

Why does the Counseling and Wellness Department host parent education groups?

When is the Counseling and Wellness Department open?

Parent Education Opportunities

Resources

Meet the Counseling & Wellness Team

List of 3 members.

Karan Steuart

Sophia Carpiniello

Kristy Vance

Find Us

About

Member