School Counseling

Dr. Brad Sikes is one of the counselors at MBMS, dedicated to supporting students through a time of tremendous growth and helping them prepare for high school and beyond. He began his career teaching middle school science and math, and he also has experience in elementary teaching, counseling, and administration. Dr. Sikes holds a bachelor's degree in health and physical education from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, a master's degree in middle school science from the University of Georgia, a specialist degree in school counseling, and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Piedmont University. With a collaborative approach, he is committed to addressing the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. As part of the MBMS counseling team, Dr. Sikes works with colleagues to provide individual, small group, and classroom guidance. The counseling team is always available to support students and families. Go Bolts!

Degrees and Certifications:

• B.S.Ed. in Health & Physical Education
• M.Ed. in Middle Grades Science
• Ed.S. in School Guidance & Counseling
• Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction

Certifications:

• K-12 Health & Physical Education
• Middle Grades Science and Social Studies
• School Guidance & Counseling
• Leadership
• Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
• ESOL
• Special Education
• K-5 Elementary

Mrs. Rachel Whiten is excited to be working with students this year. She holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Human Development and a Master’s in Professional Counseling with an emphasis in School Counseling, both from the University of Georgia. After completing her School Counseling degree, she served as a school counselor at Hart County Middle School from 2018-2022, during which time she also earned her Education Specialist degree in Professional Counseling in 2020. In 2022, she briefly transitioned to elementary school counseling at West Jackson Elementary School. In 2021, she achieved her Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) credential, and she is currently pending licensure to become a fully Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at the beginning of this school year.

Currently, Mrs. Whiten serves as both a school counselor and a LAPC therapist. She is committed to delivering a comprehensive, data-driven counseling program that supports students’ academic, personal, and professional success. Go Bolts!

Degrees and Certifications:

• B.S. F.C.S. in Human Development & B.S. in Psychology - The University of Georgia
• M.Ed. in Professional Counseling, School (P-12) - The University of Georgia
• Ed.S. in Professional Counseling - The University of West Georgia
• Georgia Licensed Associate Professional Counselor