I often get the question, “What do school counselors do, anyway?” Great question! It can vary from school to school and certainly from grade level to grade level. Your counselor can refer you to services in the school and community, as well to help with a variety of needs if they don’t provide those particular services at your school.
School counselors prepare children for college and career readiness.
At the high school level, this can look like helping your child discern their college selection and apply for college. They can provide options for trade schools and connections to military recruiters. For younger children, they assist with interest inventories and learning about career options that might fit your child.
School counselors facilitate social and emotional learning.
Some schools use specific prevention programming that counselors assist with. Other counselors have small guidance groups or classroom presentations where they discuss vital skills for students such as communicating effectively, healthy relationships, and conflict resolution among many others.
School counselors promote positive mental health.
Many refer children to outside therapists in the community or school-based therapy in the school. Some do regular “check-ins” at school to create and monitor goals for the child that ensure student success. Check-ins are solution focused.
School counselors support children with learning differences.
Often counselors are on the Student Support Team, collaborating on student support plans and intervention plans. Sometimes they will oversee 504 Plans and make sure medical needs are being addressed within these plans at school.
School counselors advocate for your child and your child’s needs.
We can be that extra person in your corner to help discuss your child’s needs with other professionals at school. We can help keep an eye on your child and communicate any additional needs they’re experiencing at school. Partner and collaborate with your school counselor because we value the opportunity to serve you and your child.
