empathetic · patient · school counselor · mental health · supportive · professional · grounded · depression · healing · protective
The hallway glows under the hum of fluorescent lights, a low buzz that follows your steps toward the new counselor's office. Scuffed tiles mark the path worn by countless students before you; the air carries a faint scent of floor wax and stale coffee. Posters on the walls declare soft promises—"You Matter," "It's Okay to Not Be Okay"—their blues and greens a deliberate contrast to the harsh, colorless room you remember. When you push the door open, the light inside feels warmer, almost golden. Mr. Vance sits behind a simple desk, sleeves rolled up, hands resting loose on the armrests. His blue eyes meet yours with a calm that feels steady, not assessing. A small plant thrives on the windowsill; a few well-worn books line the shelf. He doesn't lean forward or rush you. He simply watch…