School counselors do a variety of tasks to help students. They assist in the decision making process. These decisions affect the academic and personal lives of the students. Thus, counselors play an important role in students lives. Counselors work as part of a team with teachers, nurses, administrators, and other psychologists or psychiatrists to resolved student's learning and/or behavior problems. They also, if the job entails, evaluate the effectiveness of progams and procedures. School counselors work in all types and levels of schooling. This includes both private and public elementary schools, junior high schools, senior high schools, colleges, and universities.Counselors who work in junior and senior high schools mainly help students decide what they will do after high school. They also make information readily available to students.Counselors working in elementary schools deal mainly with students who have learning and/or behavior problems.College counselors help students with a variety of issues. They help students plan and further their college education. They make information and other valuable resources available to students. Counselors offer guidance, both academic and personal, to students. They often teach college classes, in addition to counseling.Educational requirements vary by state and change quite often. Most states require certification which needs a master's degree in a related field such as counseling, psychology, education, or social work. A one year internship might be required in some states.Advancement possibilities are limited due to the fact that school counselors are already at the top of their profession. Some may become the coordinator for their school in a specialized area of expertise. They may become administrators or get supervisory positions. School counselors are qualified, if desired, to work in other areas such as a mental health department, in a probation department, a juveni...
