OU's Department of Counseling honored for guidance work

By Erik Reikowski, staff writer

Oakland University’s Department of Counseling recently was honored with a service award on behalf of students and staff at Jefferson Middle School in Pontiac.

The award came in recognition of a collaborative partnership in which OU counseling students meet with Jefferson Middle School students weekly to provide individual and group counseling on a broad range of topics, including crisis intervention, academic and peer issues, anger management, self-esteem, career exploration, home and social issues, time management, and grief and loss.

Part of a school-based practicum experience for OU counseling students, the program is conducted under the supervision of professionals. Enid Kleiner, a licensed professional counselor and OU off-site supervisor, has been in charge of the program for the last two years.

The service award was presented at a formal banquet held at Jefferson Middle School in May, Kleiner said. Students, parents, teachers, administrators and several school board members attended the event.

“It was a wonderful evening,” said Kleiner. “The Jefferson administration and staff have always been very appreciative of our work and efforts with the students in the building. The award was a gracious token of their appreciation.”