Counselor Role and Philosophy

Personal Philosophy

My philosophy, while enriched by education and experience, is straightforward. I want to help kids. As a classroom teacher for over 19 years, the best moments occur when kids succeed. As a counselor, I want to be in a position where I can help every child without being bound by grading, discipline, or even classroom content. I've seen students succeed and fail academically due to reasons outside of the classroom. As a school counselor, addressing those students and challenges is where I feel I can help the most.

The Counseling Role on Campus

The Arizona School Counselor's Association defines the school counselor role as, "support(ing) and contribut(ing) to student achievement, success and college and career readiness (ECAPS)... (and serves as) a program for all, not just a service" (Menard & AzSCA, 2018, para. 1).

The counselor's role at school, as defined by the ASCA National Model (2012) should be focused around delivery of services that provide direct benefit to students. Examples of those services might include: individual and small group counseling, analyzing needs assessment or program evaluation data, presenting curriculum classroom lessons, counseling students with attendance, tardy or discipline issues, or advocating on behalf of students during faculty or board meetings (American, 2012). While not nearly an exhuaustive list, the roles of a school counselor always align with the needs of students and the mission and vision of the school.

References: American School Counselor Association (2012). The ASCA national model: A framework for school counseling programs (3rd ed.). Alexandria, VA: Author.Menard, J. & AzSCA Advocacy Committee (October 2018). Talking Points Flyer distributed at the College Knowledge for Counselors Workshop at the University of Arizona.

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