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Meet the Counselors
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Theresa Phillips, A-CeMrs. Theresa Phillips has over 19 years of experience in education. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Rowan University. She holds Masters Degrees in Student Personnel Services from Rowan and School Leadership from Wilmington University. Mrs. Phillips is a Williamstown resident and has two beautiful daughters who attend school in the district. She believes that all students should feel inspired to lead self- fulfilled lives.
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Natalie Catalano, Ci-GaMrs. Catalano is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science before pivoting her career to the counseling field. She received a Master of Education in School Counseling from West Chester University in 2023 before starting her first role in the counseling field here at WMS that fall. Mrs. Catalano truly loves getting to know the students and supporting them as they grow! Mrs. Catalano lives in Glassboro with her husband Chris and sons Sam & Jack.
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Mariah Floody, Ge-LaMs. Floody is a graduate of Wilmington University, having earned a Master’s of Education in School Counseling in 2023. Ms. Floody was a Counselor Intern here at WMS before accepting a position as a School Counselor. Ms. Floody loves being able to build relationships with the students and provide a safe space for students. She enjoys being able to connect with families and students to promote a positive school environment. Ms. Floody grew up in Washington Township NJ, where she currently resides.
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Elissa Llerandi, Le-OMs. Llerandi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stockton College of NJ. After obtaining her BA degree Ms. Llerandi took a year off of school to reflect on the path she wanted to pursue and ultimately chose school counseling; a decision that felt like the perfect fit for her personality and passion for helping students. She then pursed a Master’s in Education in School Counseling from Wilmington University. This is her 4th year here at WMS, and she is loving it!
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Ernesto Vale, P-SiMr. Ernesto Vale earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Richard Stockton University. After graduating, Mr. Vale worked as a case manager for Atlanticare Behavioral Health for 18 years. During the final 15 years in Atlanticare, Mr. Vale worked in a school based youth services program in Buena Middle School. In 2020, Mr. Vale graduated from Seton Hall University with his MA in School Counseling. In 2021, Mr. Vale began his career at Williamstown Middle School (WMS).
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Lauren Bowers, Sk-ZMrs. Bowers earned a Bachelor's degree from Rutgers University-Camden in Psychology with a minor in Childhood Studies, and also earned a Master's degree from Rider University in Counseling in Educational Settings. Mrs. Bowers joined Williamstown Middle School in 2024.
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Aurora Knutsen, Mental Health Assistance Counselor
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Jenna Maino, Mental Health Assistance CounselorMs. Maino received her Master’s degree in Counseling Services from Rider University in 2024, along with her certification as a Nationally Certified Counselor and Student Assistance Coordinator. She achieved an undergraduate degree in Rehabilitation and Human Services from Pennsylvania State University, with an emphasis on disability studies in 2022. She has worked in education for the past three years, supporting students across grades K–12 in both classroom and counseling settings.
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Janelle Canavos, Student Assistance CounselorMs. Canavos is the Student Assistance Counselor and Anti-Bullying Specialist at Williamstown Middle School. Her job is to make sure students feel safe, supported, and ready to do their best in school. This is Ms. Canavos' 4th year at WMS, and 5th year as a counselor! She is here to help support students in areas such as mental health, substance, friendships, stress, and confidence. Whether it’s helping with peer issues, stress, or staying substance-free, her door is always open!
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Heather Federici, 12 month Secretary
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Christine Sebastian, 12 month Secretary
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Michelle Glass, 10 month Secretary