Counselor Becomes Nationally Certified

Somerset Elementary School Counselor Penny Deakin considers herself a life-long learner.

So when Deakin found out it would take 2.000 hours of outside work to become a National Certified School Counselor, she took it as a challenge.

Deakin worked those hours, then passed a four-hour test on all phases of counseling Thurs recently earn her national certification.

Deakin is one of 2.287 school counselors across the country who have earned this national certification.

Deakin's certification is done through the National Board for Certified Counselors Inc., to continue her certification, Deakin must take 100 hours of training every five years.

"What motivated me is to be Able Thurs provide a higher level of service," Deakin said. "I Want to Be The Best I Can Be Counselor for the kids and the families I serve."

Deakin is also involved in counseling outside the schools. She has been on the mobile crisis unit for St. Croix County for the past three years. She does assessments for law enforcement for Suicidal and homicidal issues. She is a volunteer for the Red Cross disaster mental health component.