Hi, I am Madhuri, the school counselor here at Denver Waldorf, working with students from first grade all the way through high school. My role is centered on supporting students’ social and emotional growth, building resilience, and ensuring every student feels heard, safe, and cared for.

With our younger learners, my work often centers on building the foundations of social and emotional growth; skills such as learning how to make and maintain friendships, practicing kindness, developing confidence, and navigating big emotions in age-appropriate ways. As students transition into middle and high school, the focus naturally shifts to more complex challenges: managing stress and academic/social pressures, exploring their identity and self-expression, navigating friendships and relationships, and prioritizing their overall mental health and well-being. In high school, I also teach sexuality education, providing students with a safe and respectful space to ask questions and learn about affirmative consent, healthy relationships, and making informed choices.

Over the past eight years, I have worked in schools and community settings as a mental health professional, both in the U.S. and abroad. Throughout my career, I have led a range of initiatives, including classroom guidance lessons, parent workshops, crisis response plans, and school-wide events on topics such as inclusion, substance use prevention, digital safety, and suicide prevention. I am especially passionate about creating safe and supportive spaces for all students, and I love being part of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee and facilitating BIPOC affinity groups for our middle and high school students.

What I love most about Denver Waldorf is watching students thrive in an environment that values creativity, individuality, and curiosity. Here, students are not just preparing for academics; they are discovering who they are, exploring their passions, and building the confidence to be themselves.

Outside of school, you’ll probably catch me painting (number painting to be precise), exploring new places (travel is my happy place!), or spending time with family and friends.

I feel grateful to be part of the Denver Waldorf community and to walk alongside our students as they grow into kind, curious, and resilient young people.