School Counseling

What does it take to be school counselor? And what is a school counselor, anyway? The American School Counselor Association lists the following definition:

Professional school counselors are certified/licensed educators with the minimum of a master’s degree in school counseling and are uniquely qualified to address the developmental needs of all students through a comprehensive school counseling program addressing the academic, career and personal/social development of all students.

While this definition is very broad, the following examples provide a clearer context of the work that a school counselor will find themselves immersed in. Again, from the ASCA:

-Professional school counselors incorporate organizational processes and tools that are concrete, clearly delineated, and reflective of the school’s needs

-The school guidance curriculum is delivered throughout the school's overall curriculum and is systematically presented by professional school counselors in collaboration with other professional educators in K-12 classroom and group activities.

-Professional school counselors coordinate ongoing systemic activities designed to help students establish personal goals and develop future plans.

Career Outlook and Salary Information (from Education-Portal.com)

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects that employment of counselors will grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2014…The number of school counselors employed is expected to grow as student enrollments at postsecondary schools and colleges increase and as a growing number of states require that elementary schools employ counselors

A Student’s Perspective

There is no set routine for a school counselor. There will always be a new challenge or opportunity waiting. The following are a few examples (from www.jobprofiles.org) of how a typical student might make use of their school’s guidance counselor:

Home Release. More times than not, the stress of a student is not from the time that's spent at school, but from the time that is spent at home. The job of a high school counselor, or any counselor for that matter, is to redirect any unhealthy activity into something that is positive for the student.

The Information Is There. High school counselors are trusted with very valuable information that can not only help you but guide you as well. Very few know exactly what classes they need to attain what they want out of school. It is the job of your local school counselor to make sure that you receive that information.

The College Key. As you begin to work your way up the educational ladder, college becomes one of the most important elements in life. High school guidance counselors encourage and assist in getting you ready for college. From helping you fill out applications to transferring you high school progress to the college or colleges of your choice, a school counselor is there for you.

The Right Guidance. High school guidance counselors do not try to force you into any area of life or in school. They are there as a guide to inform of all your choices, not to persuade you.

School Counseling at the College of Saint Rose

Saint Rose offers a 48 credit graduate program in School Counseling that leads to a Master of Science in Education and New York State certification as a school counselor. The fall application deadline is April 15. Click here to learn more!