Welcome Thornell Road families.

The Pittsford School Counseling Program is designed to be comprehensive, developmental, and preventive. The curriculum helps to ensure that all students become effective learners, achieve personal and social goals, and develop into responsible, contributing members of a global society. 

As School Counselor at Thornell Road, I am one of the fortunate staff that works with students throughout their elementary years.  There are many services that I provide for students, classrooms, families, and staff.

Classroom lessons are age appropriate and build upon previously taught skills throughout the elementary years.  I visit primary classrooms to teach lessons in social thinking, teamwork, problem solving, self regulation and conflict resolution.  Intermediate grades learn about growth mindset, pursuing challenges, self-advocacy, communication skills, standing up for self and others, doing one’s best work, and being one’s best self.

Individual counseling can be provided on a short-term basis to assist with school based social, emotional, and academic challenges.  Students, parents, or teachers may initiate services by contacting me directly. My contact information is below. 

Peer support groups are formed when there are students with similar needs.  Groups typically focus on friendship and social skills, changing families, anxiety and stress management, and school transition. 

Professionally, I also participate and collaborate on a variety of school and district teams.  I serve on the Social Emotional Learning Committee, Instructional Support Team, Pupil Services Team, Crisis Team, District Counseling Steering Committee, District Trauma, Illness and Grief Steering Committee, and District Counseling Advisory Council. 

I am also available for families to discuss and support any concerns that may affect a child's ability to learn. Sometimes changes at home can have an impact at school. If you have changes at home, feel free to contact me to let me know so we can be more responsive to your child’s needs. Please do not hesitate to contact me. My email and voicemail are private and confidential.  Working together we will be more successful!

Contact Information:

Lisa Hems, School Counselor
Phone:  585.267.1760
Email:   lisa_hems@pittsford.monroe.edu