Counseling & Wellness Program at Denver Academy Styles Templates arrow The DA Difference: How We Teach & Learn From the Head of School Administration & Faculty Board of Trustees Employment Press Room Strategic Plan Campus Map Admissions arrow Why Denver Academy Apply to DA Tuition & Tuition Assistance Inquire About DA Visit Denver Academy FAQs Connect with DA Parents Academics arrow Elementary School Sixth Grade Middle School - Grades 7-8 High School - Grades 9-12 Physical Education Arts & Media Meet the Teachers Denver Academy Curriculum Athletics arrow DA Athletics Athletics Calendar Community arrow Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging Clubs & Organizations Counseling & Wellness DA Parent Association Online DA Spirit Store Distinctive Programs arrow Summer Program College & Transition Counseling Tutoring Library Elementary After-school Activities Experiential Education Denver Academy Symposium 2026 Give to DA arrow The Fund for Denver Academy Performing Arts Center Ways to Give Giving FAQs Denver Academy Gala 2026 Alumni News Calendar Non-Discrimination Policy Community Counseling & Wellness Visit Inquire Give The Denver Academy Counseling Department is comprised of professional counselors who serve the entire Denver Academy community (grades 2-12). Counselors provide support to students and families by way of individual sessions, counseling groups, character education lessons, and parent education opportunities. The Counseling Team collaborates with teachers and families to provide social and emotional support to students on a day-to-day basis. Referrals to the department can be initiated by a student, a parent, or a teacher/administrator. Brief “check-in” appointments are available as needed. If support is needed beyond Denver Academy’s resources, counselors will work with teachers, students, and families to create a plan for success, which may include referrals to recommended outside professionals. Parents must sign a Disclosure, Release, and Consent for Treatment form as required by law. The Disclosure, Release, and Consent for Treatment form is available during Online Check-In or from the Counseling and Wellness Department. Frequently Asked Questions List of 8 frequently asked questions. How do I get my student in to see a counselor? Students, teachers, administrators, and parents can all request appointments with their respective counselors. You may contact the Counseling and Wellness Department at counselingstaff@denveracademy.org or 303-777-5870 What is the role of a school counselor at DA? The school counselor’s role is to provide support for students during the school day in order to create a positive learning environment for all students. When are outside referrals provided? Referrals are provided if teachers and/or counselors are not able to fulfill the student's needs and the student needs support beyond the school day. Referrals also may be provided if more information is needed about the student and testing is recommended. Why do I need to get the disclosure form signed? Colorado law dictates that this form be signed by a parent or legal guardian. When do I need to have the disclosure form signed and turned in? There is no deadline, but we request all forms are signed and turned in within the first month of the school year so we are prepared to assist your student if needed. Where can I find the disclosure form? The Counseling Disclosure Form is available to be signed electronically during Online Check-In. Alternatively, the disclosure form is available in the Counseling and Wellness Department office. You may also email counselingstaff@denveracademy.org in order to request a form be emailed to you directly. Why does the Counseling and Wellness Department host parent education groups? Denver Academy takes great care to work in partnership with students and their families. As a community of learners we welcome new opportunities to learn and grow together. When is the Counseling and Wellness Department open? The Counseling Department is open Monday-Friday during school hours 8:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Parent Education Opportunities The Denver Academy Counseling Department is here not just for students, but for parents as well. We host parent education topics throughout the school year. Parent education opportunities will be featured with the date and location on this web page and in the DA Dateline and weekly event emails. Resources Mental Health: What to Do If Your Child is in Crisis Colorado Crisis Services Coping with Grief After Community Violence Tips for Talking with & Helping Children/Youth Cope After a Traumatic Event Mental Wellness Resources Parent Tips: Talking to Children About Violence Top Ten Digital Citizenship Tips - Middle & High School Questions? Email Counseling & Wellness Team Meet the Counseling & Wellness Team List of 3 members. Karan Steuart Head of Counseling & Wellness Read Bio Karan received her bachelor's degree in human services from Metropolitan State University where her passion for working in the area of community mental health and addictions research developed. After numerous years of assisting adolescents and adults in various settings, she recognized that individual needs include the needs of family, community, and overall systems. Inspired to move forward in developing a more comprehensive understanding of mental health care, Karan went on to receive her master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addictions Counselor in the State of Colorado. Something she believes is that positive growth in life flows when vulnerability can be seen as an opportunity and that discomfort precedes strength and resiliency. Her role is to join individuals to take notice of these qualities and assist in moving forward. Sophia Carpiniello Counselor Read Bio Sophia is a licensed school counselor, a yoga teacher, and an artist. Sophia's passions for education, wellness, and creativity led her to pursue school counseling. She studied psychology, business, and studio art at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Penn., and then taught elementary school in New York City. While teaching, she earned her Master's in School Counseling from NYU. Sophia has worked in a variety of settings including a residential therapeutic program, public schools, and charter schools in both NYC and Denver. Sophia is thrilled to be a part of the DA community and support students' social-emotional well-being. In her free time, she enjoys painting, knitting, skiing, and learning new skills like wheel throwing and guitar. Kristy Vance Counselor Read Bio Kristy Vance received her bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in elementary and special education from William Smith College. Kristy taught third grade before pursuing her passion for special education and working at The Joshua School and Firefly Autism with students with developmental disabilities. Working closely with talented professionals, families, and unique learners allowed Kristy to discover that a career in social work would allow her to fulfill her professional goals of helping students and their networks of support to close the gaps between school, home, and the community. Kristy received her master's in social work from the University of Denver. Kristy's work spans from early childhood social skills and trauma work through teenage and young adult behavioral and academic support. She has worked in a variety of settings including public and private schools, community mental health centers, nonprofit academic enrichment programs, and private practice. Find Us 4400 E. Iliff Ave. Denver, CO 80222 Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870 Admissions: 303.777.5161 General: info@denveracademy.org About Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DA inspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education. Sign Up for DA Dateline Monthly Newsletter Member