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What does a School Counselor do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A school counselor is a professional who helps students with their academic, career, and personal goals. Counselors work with students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and create action plans to reach those goals. They also provide support and guidance to students who are struggling with personal issues such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse.

School Counselor job duties include:

  • Meeting with students to discuss academic, personal, and social concerns
  • Developing and implementing programs to improve student academic and social performance
  • Counseling students individually and in groups
  • Collaborating with teachers, administrators, and parents to create a supportive learning environment for all students
  • Identifying at-risk students and working with them to develop action plans for success
  • Conducting assessments and interpreting results to determine student needs
  • Creating and maintaining confidential student records
  • Planning and leading school-wide guidance activities such as assemblies and parent workshops
  • Referring students and families to community resources as needed

School Counselor Job Requirements

A School Counselor typically needs a Master's degree in counseling, although some jobs may only require a Bachelor's degree. Certification requirements vary by state. School Counselors also need experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting.

School Counselor Skills

  • Communication
  • Listening
  • Patience
  • Empathy
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Organizational
  • Time Management
  • Stress Management
  • Problem Solving
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking

Related: Top School Counselor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a School Counselor

There are many steps to becoming a school counselor. The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Once you have obtained your degree, you will need to complete a state-approved counseling program. After completing your counseling program, you will be required to take and pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE). Once you have passed the NCE, you will be eligible to apply for state licensure. Once you have obtained your state license, you will be able to work as a school counselor.

Related: School Counselor Resume Example

Related: School Counselor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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