Supporting Student Well-Being
At Florida Preparatory Academy, we understand that student success extends beyond the classroom. Our Counseling Services program is here to support students' social, emotional, and personal well-being by providing a safe, supportive environment where students can seek guidance, build resilience, and develop the skills needed to thrive both academically and personally.
Whether a student needs someone to talk to, assistance navigating a challenging situation, help connecting with resources, or simply a quiet place to regroup, our counselor is here to help.
Meet Our School Counselor
Florida Prep's Counseling Services are provided by Mrs. Medary, our full-time School Guidance Counselor.
Mrs. Medary's background includes education, psychology, and forensic psychology. She works closely with students to provide guidance, encouragement, advocacy, and support for social and emotional concerns that may impact their school experience.
Students are always welcome to stop by the Academic Office to:
- Talk through personal or school-related concerns
- Receive guidance and encouragement
- Develop healthy coping strategies
- Access school and community resources
- Seek academic or social advocacy when needed
- Take a moment to reset before returning to class
Sometimes, all a student needs is someone who will listen—or even a fidget tool to help refocus.
Scope of Services
As a School Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Medary provides support, resources, and advocacy to help students succeed while at Florida Prep.
Please note that school counseling services are not a substitute for clinical mental health treatment. School counselors do not diagnose mental health conditions or provide therapy or formal treatment plans. When students require specialized or ongoing mental health care, families will be provided with referrals to qualified licensed mental health professionals.
Community Mental Health Resources
Florida Prep encourages families to seek additional support whenever appropriate.
Find an Aetna In-Network Therapist
For boarding students covered under the school's required Aetna insurance plan, families can search for local licensed providers using Psychology Today's therapist directory.
Featured Local Provider
Families looking for a local licensed mental health counselor may also wish to explore Michelle Farrey, LMHC, who offers a variety of counseling specialties.
Please note that Florida Preparatory Academy provides these resources as a convenience and does not endorse or guarantee any specific provider. Families are encouraged to determine which provider best meets their individual needs.
Recommended Reading
Students, parents, and families interested in learning more about mental wellness and personal growth may find these books helpful:
- The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge
- Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World by
- Admiral William H. McRaven
- Make Your Bed: A Daily Journal
- The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
- The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky
Daily Habits That Support Mental Wellness
Small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference in overall well-being. Consider incorporating some of these evidence-based practices into your daily routine:
- Move your body for at least 30 minutes each day.
- Dance, play, or participate in an activity you enjoy.
- Practice gratitude through journaling or reflection.
- Spend time connecting with others in person.
- Practice guided breathing or mindfulness exercises.
- Speak kindly to yourself and practice positive self-talk.
- Prioritize healthy sleep habits and a consistent bedtime routine.
We're Here to Help
Seeking support is a sign of strength. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or simply need someone to talk to, Counseling Services are available to help you navigate challenges and connect you with the resources you need to be successful.
Students may visit Mrs. Medary in the Academic Office during the school day or speak with a teacher, advisor, residential staff member, or administrator if they would like assistance connecting with Counseling Services.