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Counseling

Kerry Masterson, Counselor for Gateway Academy

770-781-2299, Extension 401215 

The Gateway Academy Counseling Program is designed to support students from a developmental, remedial, and preventive perspective, ensuring that every learner has access to the tools and guidance needed for personal and academic success.

Our counseling environment is built on trust, care, and respect, providing a safe and non-threatening space where students can express themselves, address challenges, and work toward their goals. Counselors focus on helping students build resilience, develop coping strategies, and strengthen decision-making and interpersonal skills.

Topics for counseling sessions and group discussions are identified through a needs assessment conducted at the beginning of each school year. This ensures that our program remains responsive to the evolving needs of our students and provides meaningful, relevant support throughout their time at Gateway Academy.

Gateway Academy provides a comprehensive counseling program designed to meet the diverse needs of our students. Services are offered in both small group and individual settings, focusing on academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth.

Small Group Counseling Topics Include:

  • Anger Management

  • Divorce / Family Change

  • Drug & Alcohol Education

  • Self-Esteem

  • Grief and Loss

  • Stress Management

  • Motivation & Support

  • Pregnancy Group

  • Medication

  • Women’s Group

  • Test Preparation

  • Study Skills

  • Organizational Skills

  • Post-Secondary Education

  • Careers

Categories of Support Include:

  • Basic Counseling – General academic and social-emotional support

  • At-Risk Counseling – Targeted support for students facing behavioral, academic, or social challenges

  • Process Team Meetings – Collaborative problem-solving for student success

  • Social Work – Assistance connecting students and families to community resources

  • Insights of Atlanta (Substance Prevention) – Programs focused on substance awareness and prevention

  • Collaborative Support – Partnership with school, community, and business resources

  • Mental Health – Support for students with identified mental health needs

  • Adult Probation & Juvenile Probation – Support and monitoring for students involved with the justice system

Through these services, Gateway Academy provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment where students can develop essential skills, overcome challenges, and prepare for future success—helping them to CREATE your story.