Professional school counselors are trained in both education and counseling, allowing them to function as a facilitator between parents, teachers, and students in matters concerning the student’s goals, abilities and any areas needing improvement. School Counselors are professional educators with a mental health perspective who understand and respond to the challenges presented by today’s diverse student population.
- Individual and small group counseling (short term interventions)
- Crisis intervention counseling
- Conflict resolution and peer facilitation
- Consultation/collaboration
- Referrals to outside services (including mental and physical health)
- Student Advocacy
- Advocate for individual students
- Advocate for positive change in the school and in the district
Why High School Counselors?
High school years are full of growth, promise, excitement, frustration, disappointment and hope. It is the time when students begin to discover what the future holds for them. High school counselors have an impact on these years by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program and collaborating with school staff, parents and the community to create a safe
and respectful learning environment. High school counselors enhance the learning process and promote academic, career and social/emotional development. High school counseling programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set informed career goals and realize their full academic potential to become
productive, contributing members of the world community.
High school counselors hold a master’s degree and required state certification in school counseling. Maintaining certification includes ongoing professional development to stay current with educational reform and challenges facing today’s students. Professional association membership enhances the school counselor’s knowledge and effectiveness.
The above text is from the American School Counseling Association "The Essential Role of the High School Counselor"