Director: Jackie Reckas, LMFT 

Jackie Reckas, a licensed marriage and family counselor, who has worked with the program for several years, is now the clinical director of the program. Ms. Reckas earned her master's degree in psychology, as well as the Pupil Personnel services credential from St. Mary's College in Moraga. She has a great deal of experience working with children and families. In addition, she has worked in public schools and in clinical situations that specialize in family problems. 

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Co-Director: Maria Washington, LMFT

Since 2017, I’ve had the honor of working as a School Counselor, walking alongside students as they navigate the ups and downs of their academic, emotional, and social worlds. My journey started as an MFT trainee with the Program for Counseling in Schools - the program that I still proudly represent. It was here that I was given the opportunity to fulfill my passion for working with children and teens. The foundation of skills of providing therapy for children that I gained during that time still guide me every day in my work.

Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) has allowed me to better understand the unique struggles kids face and how to support them through life’s toughest moments. The training I received taught me how to listen, connect, and build trust with students in a way that creates a safe space for them to open up and grow. I’ve always believed that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported—and this belief is at the heart of everything I do.

Now, I have the privilege of giving back by working with MFT Trainees and Associates - our School Counselor interns - offering the same guidance and support that was so crucial in my own journey. I know what it’s like to feel uncertain in those early years, and I’m passionate about helping budding therapists find their own voice and confidence as they begin to build their careers. It’s deeply rewarding to be there for them in the same way others were there for me, knowing that the work we do today will help shape the futures of the students we serve tomorrow.

I truly believe that the work we do as School Counselors can make a lasting impact, not just on the students we work with, but on the counselors we collaborate with. It’s about building a community of support, where we lift each other up, learn from each other, and grow together. And I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this journey with both the students and the School Counselors I work with every day.

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Interns​​

Tamara Nakhjavani, Holy Spirit and St. Perpetua Schools

Mrs. Nakhjavani or Mrs. Tamara (as the students call her) brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to student well-being in her role as the TK-8 counselor at St. Perpetua School. With degrees in biology (BS), Law (JD), and Marriage and Family Therapy (AMFT), she specializes in child and adolescent development, offering comprehensive support to students in transitional kindergarten through eighth grade.

With a focus on nurturing the whole child, Mrs. Tamara integrates faith-based principles & counseling techniques to support students' academic, social, and emotional growth. She provides individual and group counseling sessions, coordinates with teachers and parents, and implements programs that promote a positive and inclusive school environment. Known for her empathetic and approachable demeanor, Mrs. Tamara is dedicated to helping each student navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve their full potential. She also actively leads small groups such as lunch bunches, friendship groups, restorative circles, and mindfulness sessions, which contribute to the vibrant and supportive community at St. Perpetua School. She is deeply committed to build community circles where students learn to embody connection, positive interactions, compassion, and kindness. In her free time, Mrs. Tamara enjoys hiking, reading, exercising, meditating, and hanging out with her husband, 14 year old daughter and their two dogs. 

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Olivia Pena, St. Joseph School

My name is Olivia, and I have been with the program for 4 years. I have grown so much as a professional and individual, and I can confidently say that it has provided me with the social/emotional tools, techniques, and experience I need to advocate for our youth. The support and love that this program provides is unmatched, and the community that is formed feels more like family. Jackie R. is an amazing Supervisor who has plenty of experience to help guide and support where/when needed. This program has really been a solid part of my foundation, and I am happy to say that it has helped me grow as a mental health advocate within the school system. 

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Sara Kaci, St. Elizabeth School

Empathy, compassion, respect, non-judgment, and trust are the cornerstones of my counseling approach. As a counselor, my goal is to empower students by working at their pace and comfort level, meeting them where they are, and helping them find their voice. I strive to implement tools and interventions tailored to each student's unique needs and qualities. I truly believe that students can thrive and reach their goals when provided with support, safety, and a welcoming, judgment-free environment. In my work with students, I focus on building coping skills, providing psychoeducation, and increasing awareness of challenges and solutions. My aim is to equip students with lifelong tools they can apply in their daily lives, fostering resilience and self-empowerment. I have been with The Program for Counseling in Schools since my time as an MFT trainee and cannot praise this program enough for the invaluable mentorship it has provided. Shortly after graduation, I was offered a position at the school where I completed my practicum, allowing me to continue my professional development under Jackie’s supervision. Her guidance has been instrumental in my growth. Now, as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I have experienced firsthand The Program’s dedication to fostering professional growth and support. Jackie is not only a knowledgeable and empathetic supervisor who cultivates development and positivity, but she also leads with a non-judgmental and uplifting approach.

My time with this program has significantly strengthened my skills and helped me cultivate a growth mindset, for which I am truly grateful.

Emma Vieth 

I have a strong passion for guiding students through the challenges they face in their emotional and social lives. I firmly believe that every child has the capacity to thrive, and I am devoted to fostering a space where they feel appreciated, understood, and empowered to achieve their best. Being part of this program is truly a privilege, as it allows me to collaborate with such motivating and supportive colleagues and supervisor. When I'm not working, I find joy in running, practicing Pilates, traveling, hiking, baking, and enjoying quality time with my daughter. In 2017, I relocated from the Washington, DC area to Sonoma County.  I have a bachelor’s degree in social science from Harding University and a Master of Science in Health Sciences with a concentration in Public/Community Health Education from Touro University. I am currently working towards a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling (MFT/PCC) at Touro University.

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