Hello, it is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as the counselor at Seaholm High School for families with last names starting with E-K. 

Professionally, I have been in the counseling field since 2011, and have experience working with individuals of all ages. I am very passionate about my career and enjoy being able to assist adolescents. Prior to Seaholm, I worked as a school counselor at the high school and middle school levels. I pride my counseling practices on supporting children/adolescents and strengthening families. I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling from Oakland University and earned two Bachelor of Science degrees in Marketing and Human Resource Management. I earned two post-master’s specializations after graduate school that are specific to children/adolescents and school counseling. Additionally, I am a certified Post-Secondary Education Planner & College Advisor through Michigan College Access Network.

Some of the concerns I have handled are: academic, career, and high school/post-secondary educational planning; various family issues, homelessness, career exploration, organizational skills, grief/loss, social adjustments, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, divorce, motivation, anger, depression, communication skills, anxiety & decision-making. I firmly believe that it’s vital to use a proactive approach, versus reactive, especially when handling a crisis situation. I am a certified safeTALK trainer and provide multiple suicide awareness trainings throughout the year. I have experience assisting emotionally and cognitively impaired youth in a school-based and private practice setting. In addition, I have facilitated numerous support groups related to grief, self-esteem, anxiety, study skills, and peer relationships. 

Outside of Seaholm, I work as a Contractual Therapist in a private practice office in Rochester Hills, and have worked with clients ranging from 4-68 years old. When I'm not helping clients and students, I enjoy traveling, exercising, cooking, being on the lake, and spending time with my loved ones and pets!

I happily take phone calls and will answer if I am available. However, phone messages may not be checked until the end of the school day. Therefore, email is best when trying to reach me. The nature of email helps me to prioritize messages and requests. You will likely receive a response within the same day, however depending on the time of day and/or the nature of the request, you may not receive a response until the following business day. If three or more days pass without a reply, please send another message. I pride myself on prompt communication and try to do my best despite the busy nature our building.

Email: nfestian@birmingham.k12.mi.us
Work: 248-203-3759
Fax: 248-203-3825