Provides instruction on important self and social issues. School counselors often teach lessons within the classroom to educate students about bullying, academic success, career paths, self-esteem, forming healthy relationships, etc.
Counseling. School counselors often help students work through difficult situations and help them find ways to manage their emotions. In addition, the counselor is a support system for students to turn to, so they have someone to listen to their worries and concerns. Counselors also teach coping skills for complex problems such as:
Conflicts with peers, teachers, parents, or other important people in their life.
Anxiety, peer conflict, parental divorce, anger management, stressors they may be experiencing at home or in school, etc.
Managing their behaviors and teaching coping skills that will help them to respond to stressful situations in a healthy manner.
Early intervention. School counselors receive training about learning difficulties and psychological concerns that commonly happen in children and adolescents. School Counselors may be able to identify early interventions that will aide in school success.
School Counselors often provide counseling services to students that are dealing with issues that can be resolved in a short time frame.
If a child needs additional support, their counselor can offer assistance and resources to the student and their family. For example, outpatient counseling resources, grief support groups, school-based services, etc.
Special needs services. Counselors often help special needs students integrate into classrooms and may oversee programs that address requirements for students that need accommodations. They also can account for the districts LEA for IEP meetings and may assist with developing 504 Plans.
Responsibilities. They work with administrators, teachers, students, parents and community members to help build a school environment that makes everyone feel welcomed, supported, and connected.
FUN FACT: The American School Counseling Association (ASCA) officially recommended the term "school counselor" in place of "guidance counselor" in 1990. The change was made because the term "guidance counselor" no longer accurately reflected the expanded scope of work performed by school counselors. You may still hear others use the old term; however, the formal title is school counselor.
