What We Do

In collaboration with parents, schools, and the community, Hanover County School counselors provide all students educational services that foster academic, career, and personal/social growth toward lifelong success and effective, responsible citizenship for a diverse and changing world.

We Believe...

-In the dignity and worth of each individual; we respect differences and value diversity
-That all students can achieve with equitable access to resources
-In abiding by the ethical standards as prescribed by the American School Counselors Association

School counseling programs are collaborative efforts benefiting students, parents, teachers, administrators, and the overall community. School counseling programs should be an integral part of students’ daily educational environment, and school counselors should be partners in student achievement. Please contact our school counselors: Ms. Didlake (1, 3, and 5), Mrs. Robinson (K, 2, and 4), or Mrs. McCahill (Tuesdays only).

School Counselors

Lauren Didlake 

Lauren Didlake
1,3,5 Counselor
(804) 723-3626

Chesney McCahill

Chesney McCahill
Counselor
Tuesdays Only

Brooke Robinson

Brooke Robinson
K,2,4 Counselor
(804) 723-3625

Classroom Instructional Lessons

 Lauren Didlake and Brooke Robinson, our school counselors, lead lessons in all k–5 classrooms to support our academic program goals. We base our lessons throughout the year on categories that fall under the three counseling domains:

  • Academic Development
  • Career Readiness
  • Social Emotional Skills

Hanover School Counselors Logo - Manage, Assess, Deliver, Define. Hanover School Counselors "What's best for students"

Group Counseling

Mrs. Didlake, Mrs. Robinson, and Mrs. Gray accept referrals for students who would benefit from small group counseling experiences. Small groups may focus on skills including, but not limited to friendship, study skills, divorce/separation, grief/loss, and anger management. We offer additional topics throughout the year based on student need. The benefit of group counseling is that it provides an opportunity for students to build skills, while meeting other children who are experiencing concerns similar to their own.

Individual Counseling

If you have questions or concerns, please contact your child's designated school counselor. The school counselor typically provides four to six weeks of counseling sessions.

Consultation

An important part of the school counselor's role is consultation. A counselor may consult with parents, faculty, other school staff, and community agencies in order to best meet the individual needs of all students.

Mission Statement

At Cold Harbor Elementary, our school counseling program is committed to creating a safe, secure, and connected learning environment where every student is supported and valued. Aligned with the ASCA National Model, we focus on building life-ready skills, supporting academic success, and promoting career awareness. Through collaboration with families, staff, and the community, we prepare students to grow, thrive, and succeed in school and beyond.

Philosophy Statement

At Cold Harbor Elementary School, we believe that:

  • Every student is unique and capable of success, given the right support and opportunities in a safe and inclusive environment.
  • Counseling lessons and services are aligned with the ASCA National Model, fostering development in the domains of academic achievement, career awareness, and social/emotional well-being.
  • Collaboration with students, families, educators, and stakeholders is key to nurturing a connected school culture where all students thrive.
  • The development of life-ready skills, such as self-awareness, problem-solving, and collaboration, is crucial in preparing students for future success.  Once a month,
  • Ready for Life skills are discussed within the classroom.

Our school counselors are dedicated to serving as advocates for every child, ensuring that Cold Harbor Elementary continues to be a place where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to learn and grow.

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