Our Guidance Counselor job description includes the responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.
About the Guidance Counselor role
A Guidance Counselor provides support, advice, and resources to students to help them reach their academic and personal goals. They help students develop skills for academic success, explore career options, and manage social and emotional issues.
Role Purpose
The purpose of a guidance counselor is to provide students with emotional and academic support, to help them reach their educational and career goals. Guidance counselors serve students of all ages, from elementary school to college, and help them make decisions that will lead to educational and personal success. Guidance counselors provide individualized guidance and counseling services, such as developing academic plans, assisting with college and career planning, and providing emotional and mental health support. They also serve as advocates for their students, helping them to navigate the educational system and resources available to them.
Guidance Counselor Summary
The Guidance Counselor is responsible for providing guidance, support, and advice to students in order to help them develop academic, social, and career-related skills. The Counselor works closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to ensure that each student is on the right track to succeed in school and beyond. Responsibilities include assessing students' needs, developing educational plans, and providing special services such as individual and group counseling. The Counselor also assists in career development, helping students explore job opportunities and develop job search skills. The role requires an understanding of individual and group dynamics, as well as the ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
Guidance Counselor Duties
- Provide academic, personal, and career guidance to students
- Maintain accurate student records and follow-up on student progress
- Assist students in developing skills for academic success and post-graduation plans
- Organize college and job fairs
- Connect students with resources in the community
- Collaborate with teachers and administrators
- Maintain updated knowledge of college admissions and financial aid
Guidance Counselor Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to listen and provide advice
- Knowledge of community resources
- Understanding of student behavior and development
- Ability to assess and develop academic and career plans
Guidance Counselor Requirements
- A Master's Degree in Counseling, Social Work or a related field
- Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations related to guidance counseling
- Excellent interpersonal, communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with school staff and other professionals
- Ability to provide crisis intervention and guidance services
- Ability to provide individual and group counseling services
Personal Traits
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to communicate effectively
- Empathetic and compassionate
- Excellent problem solving skills
- Organized and detail oriented