School Counselor Career Guide

What Does a School Counselor Do?

School counselors help students develop academic and social skills, assist with college and career planning, and provide counseling for personal or behavioral issues. They work with students individually and in groups to address challenges, evaluate students' abilities and interests, help students set academic goals, collaborate with teachers and parents, and maintain records of student progress. They play a critical role in student success from elementary through high school.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Master's degree in school counseling or related field
• Certifications: State school counselor certification or licensure required; may need teaching certificate in some states
• Key Skills: Communication, compassion, listening, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity
• Experience: Internship/practicum during master's program; some states require teaching experience

Salary Information

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data:

• Median Annual Salary: $63,980
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $41,000
• Experienced (90th percentile): $101,000
• Work Schedule: Typically follow school calendar with summers off
• Benefits: Strong benefits including health insurance, pension, and paid time off

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of school counselors is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. Growth is driven by continued emphasis on student mental health, college and career readiness programs, and social-emotional learning. Schools are recognizing the importance of counselors in addressing student anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues. Federal and state initiatives to lower student-to-counselor ratios create additional positions.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Earn a bachelor's degree, then complete a master's in school counseling accredited by CACREP. Programs typically include 600+ hours of supervised field experience.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Apply for school counselor positions in elementary, middle, or high schools after certification. New counselors often start as assistant counselors or in smaller districts.
3. Build Skills: Obtain state school counselor certification, complete practicum and internship requirements, maintain required continuing education credits.
4. Network: Join American School Counselor Association (ASCA), attend state counselor conferences, connect with field supervisors during training.
5. Apply Strategically: Target school districts hiring counselors. Check district websites, state education department job boards, and ASCA Career Center.

Career Path & Advancement

School counselors can advance to lead counselor, counseling coordinator, or director of counseling roles. Some become school administrators (assistant principal, principal) with additional certification. Others specialize in college counseling, career counseling, or special education counseling. Experienced counselors may transition to private practice, work for educational nonprofits, or become counselor educators at universities. Some pursue school psychology or clinical mental health counseling for expanded scope.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in School Counselor, you might also consider:

• School Psychologist (assessment and testing focus)
• Social Worker (broader social services)
• Career Counselor (adult career guidance)
• Mental Health Counselor (clinical therapy practice)