What’s in a name? It may seem that using the titles school counselor and guidance counselor interchangeably has little influence on one’s professional abilities. After all, they really are the same thing….right? The problem with this philosophy is the perceptions of others (students, parents, teachers, administrators) of what a guidance counselor is…..and it certainly is not a school counselor.
Perceptions of a Guidance Counselor
A simple Google search provided the following descriptions for guidance counselor:
- A member of the staff of a high school whose job is advising students about course selection, possible careers, preparation for college, etc.
- Guidance counselors have the role of student advisor. They work with students on career and college planning and help them pick their course of study. They monitor and adjust student schedules to best serve the students’ academic needs. They may also be involved in intelligence and psychological testing.
- Someone whose job it is to help students which their school or personal problems, or to advise them about making career choices.
The typical perception of a guidance counselor is one of the professional sitting behind the desk all day, meeting with one student after another to discuss issues varying from social and academic problems to career and college advisement. Don’t believe me? A quick review of these cartoons should sway you towards agreement with me.
Why School Counselor?
Using the title school counselor helps you, and us, escape the perceptions represented above. Professionally, we are much different than these depictions of our occupational ancestors. We thank them for their contribution, but realize it is time to move on. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) puts it best as they define a school counseling as “helping all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development, and career development, ensuring today’s students become productive, well adjusted adults of tomorrow.” School counselors are not “desk jockeys” replicating the same actions year after year. We provide services individually, in group settings and in classrooms on a regular basis. School counselors are educational professionals who align their actions with school and district goals and are able to collect and analyze data to demonstrate effectiveness.
Moving towards School Counselor
So, as the new school year begins, I challenge all of us to stay away from the “G” word. Ask yourself:
- How do I sign my letters?
- How do I answer my phone?
- What does the sign on my office say?
- What does my letter head say?
- How am I introduced by colleagues?
If you run into the “G” word this school year, remember, “Its school counselor, thank you!”
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Rachel Wolf
Good article. I am already trying to think of ways to tackle this issue as the new school I am starting at only uses the G word. You sound a bit snobby and elitest if you correct them, but I am going to try and find nice ways to do it.
Felicia Meadows
Our school sysem actually changed our title to Professional School Counselor a few years ago and I sign all of my documentation as such
Stuart Chen-Hayes
Nathan, Great work, as always. School Counselor rocks! Now if we can just get GLEE to stop using GC, I think we’re well on our way.
Jzl365
Nice job! It’s really helpful!
Pixie328
I was a guidance counseor for 30 years and wrote a book that you can see if you go to http://www.judycohen.org. From looking at the contents, you can see how many things we do. We are dctors, psychiatrists, teachers, counselors, college advisors, etc. so I do understand your desire for a name change. I still meet with students, help them with their SATs, their essays, college applications and many of their other concerns. Good luck to all of you counselors out there.l You are so important in the lives of so many. Best wishes for a wonderful school year. May you accomplish what you wish.
Judy
Stuart Chen-Hayes
So Judy, what keeps you from updating to using school counselor like the rest of us? Its’ time!
Chief5
I too have always felt that the change to professional school counselor provides a comprehensive approach to all of what school counselors do. I would like to share my take on the professional school counselor:
“The Professional School Counselor”
Taking the time,
lending an ear.
Offering a tissue,
sharing that tear.
Standing so proud,
watching them grow.
Talking with parents,
letting them know.
Working with colleagues,
offering support.
Helping them handle
the difficult sort.
Bonding with children
in need of a friend.
Making a diference,
right through the end.
I want you to know
your work’s not in vain;
for the smile appears
when control they regain.
We are ripped and we’re
torn and split in two;
but tomorrow will come —
just because they have you!
Written by Kevin D. Quinn, School Counselor, South Kingstown High School Wakefield, RI (retired) Permission to share granted.
Sr. Iry
Thank you for sharing!
Mizzlan1
Awesome Awesome Awesome! I received this article through a colleague and am so very glad I read it. I have been a Professional School Counselor for almost six years and us babes in the field really need to have this in a curriculum. I love what I do. I am happy to read previous comments from others who share the same passion. Continue to advocate for School Counselors and continue to SHOW them what we do! Best Wishes!
Jo Ann Smegelsky
My certificate says Public School Teacher, certification area School Counselor and that is what I have always called myself and use as my professional title. I correct those that say guidance counselor.