Ms. Amanda Acheson, a SAC counselor at WMS, is a specifically-trained, certified in-school intervention specialist. SACs provide confidential, one-on-one student assistance counseling for youth experiencing challenges with academics, eating disorders (ED), self-harm, bullying, and more.
Acheson reflected on her upbringing in challenging circumstances and her experience working in the social services sector. Encountering some unsatisfactory counselors motivated her to pursue a path focused on helping those in need.
Acheson said, “I grew up in some complicated situations. I was working for social services for a while. And actually came into contact with some unpleasant counselors. And it just inspired me to want to help a population in need.”
Acheson emphasized the importance of helping students understand that they are not alone in their feelings, whether it’s fear, anxiety, depression, grief, or loss. They must know that someone genuinely cares for them, which can provide comfort and support during tough times. Acheson said, “I just think that people need to understand that they aren’t alone when they are feeling a certain way, no matter if it’s fear, anxiety, depression, grief, or loss. They just need to know that there is someone who cares, and I really do. My hope is that people can feel that.”
When Mrs. Acheson received the Tree of Hope Award, she felt honored to represent Middlesex County as one of the co-chairs for the Association of Student Assistance Professionals (ASAP). The award recognized all Student Assistance Counselors (SACs) in the region, highlighting their commitment to supporting students in need.
The ceremony recognizes recovery, resilience, and community support. Student assistance counseling primarily focuses on addressing issues related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. The goal is to educate, prevent, and intervene when substances become a problem in someone’s life, whether that involves individuals using substances or being under their influence.
Acheson went on to explain how people get addicted to substances, and what SAC counselors do to prevent it: “They’re pressured into it. So they end up getting exposed to it, or they are a CODA, which means child of a dependent adult. So, it’s a huge part of what our job entails. However, the majority of us are very mental health focused. So we also do other things outside of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.”
The Tree of Hope ceremony is organized by the Wellspring Center for Prevention, which selects the recipients each year. Middlesex County ASAP is among the winners, and a notable figure involved is Mr. Andy Dean, a recovery champion. He hosts a podcast called Mind on Mental Health and is currently assisting with the planning of the annual conference.
Acheson said if the Tree of Hope exceeded its goals this year, she would expect to see positive changes in the community, particularly in Middlesex County. She continued, “As Middlesex County SACs, we are committed to ongoing education and professional development. Our active involvement at the state level in educational laws and support systems further enhances our efforts. Additionally, our strong emphasis on collaboration in the community is likely to result in even greater outcomes.”
Overall, the Tree of Hope Award celebrates the hard work of individuals and organizations committed to helping their communities overcome challenges like addiction. By recognizing those who support students and promote recovery, this award highlights the importance of kindness and understanding.
Recipients, like the Middlesex County Association of Student Assistance Professionals, show us that by working together and providing resources, we can create a positive environment where everyone has a chance to succeed. The award reminds us that hope plays a vital role in recovery and building stronger communities.
