After  being at Central High School for only two weeks, Antoinette “Toni” Barney has made an impact on students lives.

Central is the only school in Pueblo to have a counselor to help the teens with their issues. Although she has not been at Central very long she is already appreciated by the staff and students alike.

“She is a huge asset to the school, mental health is a big issue with teens,” said school nurse Jen Andrews.  “There have been many times where a situation could have been prevented if only they had some help. Many teens come in to the wellness center saying things like there toe hurts but, really they want to talk about  issues’ such as drugs, alcohol, abuse, or  just typical teenage stuff.”

 It is free for staff and  students and it is confidential. Students under the age of 15 will need their parents to sign a consent form. 

 “Confidentiality is a huge thing,” said  family nurse practitioner Claudia Imes. “We do not share anything unless they are a danger to themselves and to others. The only way I can tell is if I have their consent, without it I would just lose their trust. This center is used by most of our feeder schools but, I would like to see more teens from the school come in.”

“I would feel comfortable seeing her for a situation I couldn’t  deal or talk to with others,” said Justin Olivas a senior at Central said. “Just knowing she’s there to understand and listen to anyone when they need it most makes me want to take advantage of her being here. She will make a difference at Central and will lend a hand to a lot of teenagers and adults with her presence.” 

“I hope to bring quality to the center,” said Barney the new wellness center counselor. “I want to help teens in crisis, and listen and look at things in their perspective. Confidentiality is important, but I can’t disclose anything with out my clients consent. I do have a few students come in already and I’m really glad to be a part of their lives. I feel privileged to be working at central with the staff and student body.”