Meet Our Counselor

Welcome to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School! My name is Rachael Garfield and I am the school counselor. I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and spent grades PreK3 - 12 attending Catholic schools myself. I received my B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas Tech University and an M.Ed. degree in School Counseling from The University of North Texas. I have worked in the field of education for several years, as well as in private practice, group counseling, and non-profit mental health organizational settings. I began my career as a middle school English, Math, and Guidance teacher at a Catholic school very similar to St. Anthony in Dallas, Texas. While teaching, I obtained my Master's degree to become a school counselor. I believe being a school counselor is a true calling. My goal is to collaborate with your students to help give them a sense of autonomy in making healthy, faith-based decisions and choices that will leave them feeling confident, proud, and able to realize their full potential as a child of God.

As the school counselor, I have the pleasure of working with students and parents. My role involves a variety of duties, including: 

• Meeting with students, either individually or in small groups, to discuss concerns and brainstorm solutions. These meetings occur through student self-referrals or at the request of the parent or teacher. 
• Conducting developmental guidance lessons at all grade levels at the request of teachers and parents. These lessons cover a variety of topics, such as friendship, problem solving, conflict resolution, social skills, studying skills, self-concept, and more. 
• Consulting with teachers and administration on a regular basis in an effort to do what is best for our students. I also collaborate with parents as a liasion between home and school. I truly believe that communication between home and school is vital for student success. 
• Providing referrals to outside counseling agencies upon parent request. 
• Providing education and support services to parents.

As the school counselor, it is my job and my passion to be an advocate for the students of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School. It is truly a blessing and a privilege to be able to help our students grow in their faith and teach them what it means to be a Disciple of Christ. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at the information listed below.

Grace and peace be with you!

Rachael Garfield, M.Ed.
[email protected]
(281) 296-0300, Ext. 168

"When you go through deep waters, I will be with you."- Isaiah 13:7