Pennsylvania School Counselors

It could be said that Pennsylvania is a leading state in the advancement of certitude. From the time the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, to today, determination remains at the forefront of this “Keystone State.”

School counselors in Pennsylvania are determined to guide students towards social and academic independence, by offering the most comprehensive programs and systems to ensure their success in high school and beyond.

Through hard work, collaboration, and plenty of professionalism, Pennsylvania school guidance counselors are to be commended for their heart and dedication to America’s students.

What do Pennsylvania school counselors do?

Traditionally, school counselors were there to help students resolve conflict and offer them basic guidance towards college opportunities. Today, the school counseling profession has blossomed into many different roles necessary for helping students achieve social, emotional, and academic success.

Here are a few specific jobs a Pennsylvania school counselor fulfills:

1. They provide knowledge, guidance, and resources for college/career, social/emotional health, and crisis prevention.

   Not only do Pennsylvania school counselors resolve minor conflicts within their schools, they offer up-to-date resources to help guide and inspire students towards higher learning. Individualized planning, as well as classroom instruction are part of these educator’s roles. Whether a student is college bound or not, counselors are equipped to guide them towards the most beneficial path for their interests. In combination, school counselors also provide adequate counsel for youth who are struggling socially or emotionally. They work hard to ensure behavioral health for all students. This may include instruction on bullying prevention, drug/alcohol abuse, and school safety.

2. They provide individual and group counseling, as well as family counseling.

   Supportive school counselors are trained to identify specific student needs and address them either individually or as a whole. They work closely with students and their families to address issues arising both in school and at home. By working together, they are better able to determine the appropriate course for every child.

3. They provide student appraisal and assessment.

   Through regular testing and assessment, Pennsylvania school counselors are prepared to help the struggling student overcome learning challenges and obstacles. They offer personalized tools and instruction to teach students better study skills and organization. They work hard to effect curriculum changes when necessary and promote classroom management. Their ultimate goal in assessment is to enhance the potential of every student so they can move forward in confidence and graduate with their peers.

4. They provide social justice and advocacy.

   Student advocacy is at the top of the list for the Pennsylvania school counselor. Ensuring that every student has he equal opportunity to succeed, and are treated with respect and dignity, these professionals provide social justice and advocacy within their school environments. This includes multicultural counseling, educational equity, and closing academic gaps among students.

Why should someone consider becoming a school counselor in Pennsylvania?

Besides leading the next generation towards higher education and overall success, school counselors are invaluable within America’s educational system. Now, more than ever before, the need for professional school guidance counselors has skyrocketed, as students struggle to succeed socially and academically.

Here are a few important reasons someone should consider becoming a school counselor in Pennsylvania:

• Recently introduced HB 1500 and Senate Bill 749 proposed to increase access to school counselors at the ASCA recommended ratio of 250:1. This will greatly increase school counselors’ effectiveness to meet the needs of students in Pennsylvania, ensuring positive advancement in their school counseling programs.
• Continued support for Pennsylvania school counselors will be implemented by both the Pennsylvania Counseling Association (PCA) and the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association (PSCA), which indicates job security and room for growth.

Ultimately, Pennsylvania school counselors are leaders in promoting academic excellence and social independence for students across the state. They are to be commended for their dedication to America’s youth and their tireless efforts towards the advancement of independence and certitude.

Contact schools offering school counseling or mental health counseling programs and learn how you can begin a career as a Pennsylvania School Counselor.

Whether you are from Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading, Scranton, or anywhere else across the state, you will find school counseling a highly rewarding and respected career.

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