Nestled on the northern tip of Seneca Lake, Geneva, New York, shines as a welcoming haven for those seeking a vibrant yet serene lifestyle. Rich in history and culture, this charming town offers a perfect blend of small-town warmth with the excitement of a bustling community.
Geneva's picturesque streets are lined with historic architecture, creating a delightful backdrop for strolls through town. The local dining scene is a hidden gem, with farm-to-table
restaurants offering a taste of the region's rich agricultural bounty and award-winning wineries that dot the landscape, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you're visiting the eclectic Farmers Market or attending one of the many festivals celebrating everything from native wines to diverse cultures, there's always something happening in Geneva.
Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the abundance of recreational opportunities. Boating or fishing on Seneca Lake, hiking
Discover the Jewel of the Finger Lakes
4 | HelloGeneva, New York • Winter Issue
Hello Geneva, New York • Winter Issue |5
the scenic trails, or simply enjoying a picnic with a lake view, nature provides the perfect stage for relaxation and adventure alike.
Education and innovation thrive in Geneva, with institutions like Hobart and William Smith Colleges providing a vibrant academic atmosphere and contributing to the town's forward-thinking ethos. Here, community spirit and pride are palpable, making Geneva not just a...
Discover the Jewel of the Finger Lakes
Discover the Jewel of the Finger Lakes: Geneva, New York
Nestled on the northern tip of Seneca Lake, Geneva, New York, shines as a welcoming haven for those seeking a vibrant yet serene lifestyle. Rich in history and culture, this charming town offers a perfect blend of small-town warmth with the excitement of a bustling community.
Geneva's picturesque streets are lined with historic architecture, creating a delightful backdrop for strolls through town. The local dining scene is a hidden gem, with farm-to-table restaurants offering a taste of the region's rich agricultural bounty and award-winning wineries that dot the landscape, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you're visiting the eclectic Farmers Market or attending one of the many festivals celebrating everything from native wines to diverse cultures, there's always something happening in Geneva.
Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the abundance of recreational opportunities. Boating or fishing on Seneca Lake, hiking the scenic trails, or simply enjoying a picnic with a lake view, nature provides the perfect stage for relaxation and adventure alike.
Education and innovation thrive in Geneva, with institutions like Hobart and William Smith Colleges providing a vibrant academic atmosphere and contributing to the town's forward-thinking ethos. Here, community spirit and pride are palpable, making Geneva not just a place to live, but a place to truly belong.
FEATURED STORY
How School-Based Therapy and Advocacy Supports Students
by Barbara Pierce-Morrow
For many children, school is where they spend the majority of their day. It is where they learn, play, and form friendships, but it is also where they may face challenges that affect their emotional and mental health. School-based programs provide a way for students to receive support directly on campus, making help accessible when it is needed most.When a child struggles with emotions, stress, or trauma, the impact often shows up in the classroom. A student may have difficulty focusing, become withdrawn, or become frustrated. Teachers and staff, who see these behaviors
6 | HelloGeneva, New York • Winter Issue
Barbara Pierce-Morrow
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Barbara Pierce-Morrow is the Executive Director of Family Counseling Service of the Finger Lakes, where she has led efforts to expand access to counseling, advocacy, and support services across the region. With decades of experience in social services, she is committed to providing compassionate care for individuals and families facing trauma, domestic violence, and mental health challenges.
firsthand, are often the first to notice when a child might need extra support. With school-based therapy and advocacy, they can refer a student to a professional who can meet with them right at school.These services are designed to be confidential, safe, and supportive. Therapists and Advocates work one-on-one with students to help them navigate personal challenges and link students and families to additional services and support as identified and needed. They may also collaborate with teachers to better understand what a student is experiencing in the classroom. Parents are always included in the process, so
Hello Geneva, New York • Winter Issue |7
How School-Based Therapy and Advocacy Supports Students
For many children, school is where they spend the majority of their day. It is where they learn, play, and form friendships, but it is also where they may face challenges that affect their emotional and mental health. School-based programs provide a way for students to receive support directly on campus, making help accessible when it is needed most.
When a child struggles with emotions, stress, or trauma, the impact often shows up in the classroom. A student may have difficulty focusing, become withdrawn, or become frustrated. Teachers and staff, who see these behaviors firsthand, are often the first to notice when a child might need extra support. With school-based therapy and advocacy, they can refer a student to a professional who can meet with them right at school.
These services are designed to be confidential, safe, and supportive. Therapists and Advocates work one-on-one with students to help them navigate personal challenges and link students and families to additional services and support as identified and needed. They may also collaborate with teachers to better understand what a student is experiencing in the classroom. Parents are always included in the process, so families remain connected to the care their child is receiving.
School-based therapy and advocacy allow students to receive professional support in the same place where they spend most of their time.
The topics addressed in school vary widely. Some students may be dealing with anxiety or depression, while others may be coping with grief, family changes, victimization - including bullying, or peer conflicts. For some, the challenges are connected to academic stress or feelings of being left out socially. Having access to therapists and advocates at school means these concerns can be identified and addressed before they grow into larger problems with coordinated services and support.
In the Finger Lakes region, school-based mental health and social support programs have become more common as districts recognize the value of bringing services directly to students. Instead of families having to schedule appointments off-site, find transportation, or take time away from work, the care is available where children already are as therapists and advocates are based on site. This removes barriers that often prevent families from seeking help in the first place.
Advocates and therapists also play a vital role in these programs. They help students and families connect with community resources outside of school. If a child needs more intensive services or if a family is facing challenges such as housing insecurity, food access, or healthcare needs, school-based advocates can step in to guide them toward support.
Teachers also benefit from these programs. When students have access to mental health support, classrooms can become calmer and more focused. Teachers can focus on instruction, knowing that emotional and behavioral needs are being addressed by trained professionals. This creates a healthier school environment for all students, not just those receiving advocacy and therapeutic services.
Parents often find comfort in knowing that their child has someone to talk to during the school day. For families, it can be reassuring to know that issues are being addressed early and in a structured, caring way. Confidentiality is always respected, but communication between schools and parents ensures that everyone is working together in the best interest of the child.
The long-term benefits of school-based services can be significant. Students who receive help with their mental health are more likely to stay engaged in school, succeed academically, and build stronger relationships with peers and teachers. By learning coping skills and strategies at a young age, children are also better prepared to manage stress and challenges throughout their lives.
As more communities embrace the importance of mental health in education, school-based counseling is becoming an essential part of the support system available to students. By offering services where children already spend their time, schools help reduce stigma, increase access, and give students the tools they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
School-based counseling allowsstudents toreceive professionalsupport in the sameplace wherethey spendmost of their time.
families remain connected to the care their child is receiving.School-based therapy and advocacy allow students to receive professional support in the same place where they spend most of their time.The topics addressed in school vary widely. Some students may be dealing with anxiety or depression, while others may be coping with grief, family changes, victimization - including bullying, or peer conflicts. For some, the challenges are connected to academic stress or...
8 | HelloGeneva, New York • Winter Issue
Education Flourishes in Geneva, New York
In the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Geneva, New York, offers a thriving educational landscape that nurtures young minds with possibility and promise. Here, education is more than just classroom learning; it’s an inspiring journey
where students are encouraged to explore and innovate. Geneva’s schools are known for their forward-thinking approach, integrating technology and interactive learning to prepare students for the complex demands of the future.
The Geneva City School District prides itself on a diverse curriculum that caters to the creative and analytical alike. With dedicated teachers who empower each student to reach their potential, classrooms
A Bright Future Awaits
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buzz with enthusiasm and curiosity. Initiatives promoting science and the arts ensure a well-rounded education, opening doors to imagination and discovery.
Beyond primary and secondary education, Geneva cultivates a culture of lifelong learning. Hobart and William Smith Colleges stand as a testament to this commitment, offering rigorous academic programs and a vibrant campus life where intellect and community spirit
thrive. These institutions are beacons of excellence that attract scholars from far and wide.
In Geneva, New York, education is a cornerstone of the community, fostering a love of learning that will inspire generations to come. The city’s dedication to educational advancement guarantees a vibrant future for all its residents.
A Bright Future Awaits
A Bright Future Awaits: Education Flourishes in Geneva, New York
In the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Geneva, New York, offers a thriving educational landscape that nurtures young minds with possibility and promise. Here, education is more than just classroom learning; it’s an inspiring journey where students are encouraged to explore and innovate. Geneva’s schools are known for their forward-thinking approach, integrating technology and interactive learning to prepare students for the complex demands of the future.
The Geneva City School District prides itself on a diverse curriculum that caters to the creative and analytical alike. With dedicated teachers who empower each student to reach their potential, classrooms buzz with enthusiasm and curiosity. Initiatives promoting science and the arts ensure a well-rounded education, opening doors to imagination and discovery.
Beyond primary and secondary education, Geneva cultivates a culture of lifelong learning. Hobart and William Smith Colleges stand as a testament to this commitment, offering rigorous academic programs and a vibrant campus life where intellect and community spirit thrive. These institutions are beacons of excellence that attract scholars from far and wide.
In Geneva, New York, education is a cornerstone of the community, fostering a love of learning that will inspire generations to come. The city’s dedication to educational advancement guarantees a vibrant future for all its residents.
