Ms. CASEY WATERS, MA, LSC

Hello all!

I am Casey Waters, a school counselor in the Elizabeth School District. I am excited every day to have the opportunity to work with our youth and help empower them to create meaningful futures and relationships.

My journey in service to youth began as a Court Appointed Special Advisor (CASA), where I became deeply involved in advocating for the well-being of young individuals that were navigating the legal system. Alongside this pursuit, I sought a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Colorado Mesa University. I moved to the Front Range and finished this degree through Colorado State University.

After earning my bachelor's degree, I delved into the challenging yet rewarding field of youth mental health and rehabilitation. I worked across a few different treatment facilities, allowing me to gain invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges faced by today's youth.

From my previous experiences I knew I needed more, so I embarked on a master's program in Educational Counseling and Clinical Mental Health through Adams State University. This chapter of my professional journey led me to Mount St. Vincent in Denver, where I served as a school-based counselor for several years, contributing to the holistic development of students in the school and residential treatment facility. I found a passion for helping our most trauma affected youth, working under Bruce Perry's model of Neurosequential Development. This experience was enriching and so fulfilling, it truly changed the ways in which I view mental health and familial support. While this experience was one I would never change, I had felt a pull back to the small town of Elizabeth.

The roots of my career are deeply entwined with the Elizabeth School District, a community that holds a special place in my heart. Nearing the completion of my master's program, I sought an internship within the district, initiating the last five years here with a journey as a school counselor at Elizabeth High School. I still serve my students here and find my passion to be reinvigorated on a daily basis, seeing a student light up when they get into their dream school, ace their first math test in years, or gain that industry certificate that proves to be a life changing opportunity. I am also here to be deeply engaged in the continued support of our students' mental health, allowing them to have a safe place to just be and find their way through some of life's toughest conundrums.

In my day-to-day practice, I am driven by principles centered around fostering self-autonomy in my students. I believe in providing support that helps to light their chosen path, all the while emphasizing accountability, and assisting individuals in overcoming obstacles to fulfill their commitments.

As the world continues to change, I remain committed to supporting the growth and success of my students and their families.