In the most difficult times, we need a hero the most. In the past school year, the students of Antioch Community High School suffered several losses. It impacted many students differently, some needing more support than others. While students could turn to one another for comfort, there were times when more was needed. For those who struggled the most with the loss of good friends, the ACHS psychologists, especially Christine Kasbohm, were huge supporters, and undoubtedly heroes.

“I would describe my relationship with the ACHS students as one that is supportive, guiding and as someone that works with students individually and/or in larger groups to help them not only process through things, but also to help them work towards their goals.  I am available to help all students in times of crises or when they need extra support throughout the school year,” said Kasbohm.

Kasbohm is always available to help students with any problem they come to her with. She has a listening ear and a comforting heart. Kasbohm gives students somewhere to go if they feel like they absolutely need support but can’t find it. She commits her time and energy to any student who needs her help.

In Nov. 2012, just after the loss of ACHS freshman Nicole Parfitt, certain students could barely make it through the two days of school before Thanksgiving break.  Kasbohm was also there for students in February, just four short months later, when junior Joel Wittkamp died. She was also there for students after sophomore Cynthia Perez died in the summer shortly after last school year ended. But, Kasbohm isn’t just here for school tragedies that Antioch suffered last year, she is here for any students that need help. Whether that be with family problems, friend problems or loss in their own personal lives.

“Last year was significant for the ACHS students and the staff in the losses that we experienced. I worked with several students that have experienced loss, not only the ones that occurred last year, but also students who may have lost a parent or sibling several years back,” said Kasbohm. “I try to provide any support that they need, but also I provide information on the grieving process and let students know that everyone grieves differently and that is okay.”

Kasbohm is a shoulder to cry on for all students whether it is when a student passes away like many suffered through last year or even something in their every day lives that they don’t know how to deal with or need help with.

“I really look to see what is most needed at the time, anything from finding materials to create notes/cards/banners, to just providing a safe and comfortable place to be able to experience some of the emotions that occur when a loss happens,” said Kasbohm.

After Parfitt passed in 2012 students were comforted and were kindly given snacks and treats throughout the day. A therapy dog was brought in to cheer up the upset students. Kasbohm was there for anyone who needed her.

“She made the hard times so much easier; she gave us a sense of comfort and happiness in the hardest time of our lives,” said sophomore Madison Paddock.

Overall, Kasbohm made it an easier transition for those in mourning this past year to get back into a normal routine again. While this is only a few overbearing instances where Kasbohm’s value shined. She helps kids every day in her job.

“I think what inspires me to help students daily is that I am driven to help all students get the best from their education in high school,” said Kasbohm. “I will do the best I can to support that, and if I can make a difference for someone, then that’s pretty awesome!”

Kasbohm’s work with the students creates relationships that other wise wouldn’t be there. In addition to working as a psychologist, Kasbohm is an adviser for National Honor Society, which allows her to also reach out and help the community among exceptional students.

Her work is valued by students, and she is viewed as a hero by many.