Welcome to the SVMS Counselor's Corner

The "Counselors' Corner" provides students' and families with resources that can help you in numerous ways. You will be able to find information on things ranging from college and career life readiness to social/emotional learning and school/community resources. 

Ms. Garibay

Welcome, Falcons!

My name is Ms. Garibay, and I am so happy to be part of the SVMS team. I am an 8th-grade and 6th-grade A-L counselor. I graduated from Sunnyside High School and have a bachelor's degree in social work from Heritage University. I am finishing my Master's in school counseling at Walden University. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with my fiancee and our dog, Winston. Serving as your child's school counselor is one of my greatest joys.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me:

Phone:(509) 836-8500 Ext. 8510
email:kimberling.garibaylopez@sunnysideschools.org
 

 

Best, Kim Garibay
8th Grade 
6th Grade A-L 
Mr. Mendoza

Hello, Everyone!

My name is Mr. Mendoza, and I am thrilled to be part of the SVMS team. This is my third year as the SVMS counselor. I was born in Richland, WA, but raised in Sunnyside, WA. I am a proud Sunnyside High School graduate; I graduated in 2017. Later, I attended the University of Washington and graduated in 2019 with a major in Communications and a minor in Education (go DAWGS). Currently, I'm pursuing my master's in School Counseling at Grand Canyon University (Online). Outside work, I enjoy hiking, working out, hanging out with family and friends, and collecting sneakers. I am deeply committed to supporting and watching your students improve. I believe in their potential and will work tirelessly to help them succeed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me:

Phone at (509) 836-8503 Ext. 8503
Email: jesus.a.mendoza@sunnysideschools.org

 

Best, Tony Mendoza
7th Grade 
6th Grade M-Z
School Counseling Services
School counselors do not provide therapy however; we do have one mental health counselor on staff that can provide brief therapeutic intervention and provide referral support. Referrals for outside counseling services are available if students need additional support. Furthermore, school counselors can collaborate with outside service providers to support your student best in school. 
 
If you have a student or family member needs access to mental health services please reach out to a school counselor for guidance or you may access our community resources page. If you have a student or family member who is feeling suicidal, call 911 immediately . Here are some of the services that we provide:
  
Individual Counseling:

Individual counseling is a one-on-one therapeutic process where a trained mental health professional, like myself, works with students to address personal challenges and achieve specific goals. It provides a confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, gain insight into their issues, and develop effective coping strategies. This personalized approach aims to enhance emotional well-being, improve self-awareness, and promote positive changes in one’s life. It's a safe and supportive environment where students can resolve their concerns and build resilience.

Small Group Counseling:
Small group counseling involves guiding a small group of students with similar issues or goals in a supportive and interactive setting. This format allows participants to share experiences, offer mutual support, and gain diverse perspectives. It fosters a sense of community and connection while providing opportunities for personal growth and skill development. By engaging in group discussions and activities, individuals can learn from others’ experiences, practice new strategies, and build interpersonal skills in a collaborative environment.