What Does a School Counselor Do? Roles & Responsibilities for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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In a challenging educational environment, school counselors serve as a vital support system for students, families, and school staff. More than just academic advisors, these professionals play a key role in nurturing students’ emotional well-being, fostering a positive school climate, and guiding young people toward successful futures. Their work touches nearly every aspect of the school community—from helping students cope with personal struggles to ensuring college and career readiness.

This article explores the essential roles and responsibilities of school counselors, shedding light on how their contributions positively impact individual students and the broader school culture. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student interested in learning more about this indispensable profession, this guide will help you understand what school counselors do, why their work matters, and how they strengthen the entire educational ecosystem.

Key Things You Should Know About School Counselors

• Student-to-Counselor Ratio Matters: According to the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), the recommended student-to-counselor ratio is 250:1. However, in many states, the average ratio exceeds 400:1, making it challenging for counselors to provide individualized attention.
• Academic Guidance and Planning: A significant portion of a school counselor’s time is spent helping students select appropriate courses, stay on track for graduation, and prepare for college or vocational opportunities. In high schools, counselors are instrumental in organizing SAT/ACT testing, scholarship applications, and career planning resources.
• Mental Health Support: School counselors are often the first line of defense when students face emotional or behavioral issues. According to a 2023 report by the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly 70% of public schools now rely on school counselors to identify and respond to student mental health concerns, often in collaboration with psychologists or social workers.
• Crisis Intervention and Safety: Counselors are trained to handle sensitive situations such as bullying, abuse, or traumatic events. They help create safe spaces for students to talk and are critical in developing and implementing crisis response protocols within schools.
• Advocacy and Equity Work: Many school counselors advocate for underrepresented or at-risk student populations. They work to eliminate barriers to learning by promoting inclusive policies, addressing systemic inequities, and helping students from diverse backgrounds access the resources they need to succeed.

Table of Contents

1. What is a school counselor?
2. What are the specific roles and responsibilities of a school counselor for 2025?
3. What are the educational and certification requirements for becoming a school counselor?
4. What skills does a school counselor need?
5. What are the career paths and advancement opportunities for school counselors?
6. What certifications are available for school counselors?
7. How much do  school counselors make?
8. Can an interdisciplinary approach improve school counseling outcomes?
9. How do school counselors collaborate with other mental health professionals?
10. How can further education amplify a school counselor's impact?
11. How can ongoing professional development enhance school counselors' effectiveness?
12. What is the job outlook for school counselors in the United States?
13. What alternative career options are available for school counselors?
14. What challenges do school counselors usually face?
15. Other Things You Should Know About What a School Counselor Does

What is a school counselor?

A school counselor is a certified education professional specially trained to support students’ academic, social, emotional, and personal development throughout their educational journey. Unlike teachers who focus primarily on subject instruction, school counselors are dedicated to helping students navigate the challenges that can impact their learning and personal growth. They hold a master’s degree in school counseling or a related field and are licensed or credentialed according to state requirements.

While school counselors work within the school setting, their scope extends beyond the classroom. They serve as trusted confidants, mentors, and advisors, forming strong relationships with students and acting as a bridge between the school, home, and community. Their training equips them with the knowledge and skills to understand child and adolescent development, ethical practices, and data-informed decision-making, making them an essential part of a well-rounded education system.

What are the specific roles and responsibilities of a school counselor for 2025?

School counselors take on a diverse set of responsibilities that support students’ growth in three core areas: academic development, social/emotional well-being, and college/career readiness. Here’s a breakdown of their specific roles:

Academic Support

• Help students select appropriate courses based on their goals and abilities
• Monitor academic progress and intervene when students are at risk of falling behind
• Teach study skills, time management, and organizational strategies
• Collaborate with teachers to support individual learning needs

Social and Emotional Development

• Provide one-on-one and small group counseling for students dealing with personal issues
• Address bullying, peer conflict, self-esteem challenges, and mental health concerns
• Offer crisis intervention during emergencies or traumatic events
• Refer students and families to outside mental health or community resources when necessary

College and Career Readiness

• Assist with college planning, applications, and financial aid processes
• Help students explore career options through assessments, workshops, and counseling
• Coordinate career days, job shadowing, and internship opportunities
• Support vocational and technical education planning for non-college-bound students

Collaboration and Advocacy

• Communicate regularly with parents, teachers, and administrators
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment
• Advocate for equity in education by addressing barriers to student success
• Analyze student data to inform school-wide interventions and programming

These responsibilities reflect the counselor’s central role in helping students succeed academically, socially, and personally—ensuring they leave school prepared for life beyond the classroom.

Are you interested in another field of psychology, such as forensic psychology? Find out "what does a forensic psychologist do?" in a separate article.

The table below shows the industries with the highest levels of employment for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in the United States:

What are the educational and certification requirements for becoming a school counselor?

Becoming a school counselor involves completing specific educational and certification steps to ensure readiness for the role. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree. Pursue a bachelor’s degree, typically in psychology, education, or a related field. This serves as a foundation for graduate-level coursework. A bachelor's degree in social work is also a good option, and by meeting the school social worker requirements, you can start working as one.
2. Complete a Master’s Degree in School Counseling. Accredited master’s degree programs in school counseling usually take 2 to 3 years to complete. Courses cover counseling theories, child development, ethics, and educational systems. These programs include supervised practicum or internship experience in school settings.
3. Obtain State Licensure or Certification. Requirements for licensure vary by state, but they often include passing a standardized exam like the Praxis II: Professional School Counselor, completing a background check, and fulfilling supervised fieldwork hours.
4. Stay Current with Continuing Education. Many states require ongoing professional development for school counselors to maintain certification. Counselors may also pursue additional credentials (e.g., National Certified Counselor or state-specific endorsements)
5. Optional: Teaching Certification or Experience. Some states may require prior teaching experience or certification, though this is becoming less common

These steps ensure that school counselors are fully equipped to meet the academic, emotional, and social needs of students in today’s educational landscape.

If you are looking for the quickest way to become a therapist or counselor, check out various online resources for accelerated programs.

The chart below shows the most popular majors for school counselors, with school counseling leading the pack followed closely by psychology.

What skills does a school counselor need?

School counselors must possess a diverse and well-rounded skill set to effectively support students, collaborate with staff and families, and navigate complex school environments. Their role requires not only academic expertise but also strong interpersonal and organizational abilities. Here are the key skills every successful school counselor should have:

• Active listening: The ability to give full attention to students, understand their concerns, and respond thoughtfully. This helps build trust and encourages students to open up.
• Empathy and compassion: Understanding and sharing the feelings of students, allowing counselors to provide emotional support and show genuine care during difficult times.
• Strong verbal and written communication: Clearly expressing ideas and information when speaking or writing to students, parents, and school staff. This includes being able to discuss sensitive topics appropriately.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking: Quickly analyzing situations and finding effective solutions, whether it's helping a student with conflict resolution or developing an academic plan.
• Cultural competence: Being aware of and sensitive to different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values. This helps counselors work effectively with diverse student populations.
• Organizational and time management skills: Managing multiple tasks, appointments, and student needs efficiently. Good organization ensures that no student or responsibility is overlooked.
• Ethical judgment and respect for confidentiality: Understanding professional boundaries and legal responsibilities, especially when dealing with private student information or sensitive situations.
• Ability to collaborate with staff, students, and families: Working effectively as part of a team to support each student’s academic and personal development. This includes sharing insights and coordinating with others to create consistent support systems.

What are the career paths and advancement opportunities for school counselors?

School counseling offers a variety of career paths and opportunities for professional growth beyond the traditional K–12 setting. While many school counselors begin their careers working in elementary, middle, or high schools, there are several directions they can pursue as they gain experience and continue their education.

Some counselors choose to specialize in certain areas. For example, if you want to know how to become a career counselor, specializing in college and career advising is the answer. You can also specialize in special education support, or mental health counseling within the school system. Others move into leadership roles such as lead counselor, school counseling department chair, or district coordinator, where they oversee programs, mentor new counselors, and influence school-wide policy and practices.

With additional credentials or degrees, school counselors can also transition into related careers, such as:

• Licensed professional counselor (LPC) in private practice or clinical settings
• School psychologist or educational consultant
• Director of student services or district-level administrator
• Postsecondary counselor in colleges and universities
• Policy advisor or advocate in education-focused nonprofits or government agencies

Professional development, advanced certifications, and ongoing education can all open doors to new roles and higher levels of responsibility. Whether staying in the school system or branching out into related fields, school counselors have a wide range of meaningful and impactful career options. 

On an unrelated topic, want to know more about project management specialist jobs? Check out a previous article for more information.

School counselors are in for a financially rewarding career, as this small graphic shows. But you can increase your earning potential by assuming more advanced roles.

What certifications are available for school counselors?

Certifications play a key role in validating a school counselor’s qualifications and enhancing their professional credibility. These certifications enhance and support everything you learn from on-campus or online school counseling programs.  While a master’s degree is the foundational requirement, most school counselors must also obtain specific certifications or licenses to work in public or private school settings, depending on state regulations.

Here are some of the most common certifications and credentials available for school counselors:

• State Certification or Licensure: Required in all public school systems, this certification is issued by the state’s department of education. Requirements vary but often include a master’s degree, completion of a state-approved school counseling program, supervised internship hours, and passing a standardized exam (such as the Praxis II for school counseling).
• National Certified School Counselor (NCSC): Offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), this credential recognizes advanced knowledge and experience. Applicants must already be National Certified Counselors (NCC) and meet additional education, experience, and supervision criteria.
• National Certified Counselor (NCC): Also provided by the NBCC, the NCC is a broader certification for counselors in various settings. While not specific to school counseling, it enhances a professional’s credentials and may support licensure portability across states.
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Some school counselors pursue this clinical license to expand their career options beyond schools, such as working in private practice or mental health agencies. Requirements include graduate coursework, supervised clinical experience, and passing a national counseling exam. You can check out our article on the cheapest online LPC programs if you want affordable and flexible options.
• Specialized Endorsements: Some states offer additional endorsements for counselors who specialize in areas like college and career counseling, bilingual counseling, or mental health intervention.

How much do school counselors make?

School counselor salaries can vary widely based on location, education level, experience, and the type of school in which they work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2023, the median annual salary for school and career counselors was approximately $65,140. However, actual earnings can range significantly depending on several factors.

• Public vs. Private Schools: Counselors in public schools typically earn more than those in private or charter schools due to differences in funding and benefits.
• Geographic Location: Salaries are generally higher in states or cities with a higher cost of living. For example, school counselors in California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts often report above-average earnings.
• Experience and Education: Entry-level counselors earn less than those with many years of experience or advanced certifications. Holding specialized credentials or working in leadership roles can also lead to higher pay.
• Grade Level: Counselors working at the high school level may earn slightly more than those in elementary or middle schools due to additional responsibilities related to college and career readiness.

In addition to salary, school counselors often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid holidays, and summers off or reduced schedules—making the overall compensation package competitive within the education field.

The chart below shows the top-paying states for school counselors in the U.S. based on their annual mean wage and without accounting for cost of living.

Can an interdisciplinary approach improve school counseling outcomes?

Integrating principles from fields such as applied behavior analysis can enhance the effectiveness of school counseling by providing counselors with additional strategies to address complex student behaviors. This interdisciplinary approach equips professionals with data-informed techniques and intervention models that can be tailored to meet individual student needs while promoting a positive school climate. For counselors seeking to broaden their methodological toolkit, pursuing an online degree in applied behavior analysis can offer valuable insights and practical skills for implementing behavioral interventions in educational settings.

How do school counselors collaborate with other mental health professionals?

Effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams enhances the support network available to students. School counselors work alongside professionals such as social workers, psychologists, and special education staff to create integrated care plans that address academic, social, and emotional needs. By utilizing clearly defined roles and communication protocols, these teams ensure timely interventions and coordinated referrals. In many settings, counselors learn from and contribute to shared best practices, drawing on insights from social worker vs psychologist work settings to optimize support structures. This collaborative environment not only improves student outcomes but also reinforces continuous professional development among all team members.

How can further education amplify a school counselor's impact?

Advanced academic training can refine practical techniques and broaden the analytical framework essential for modern school counseling. Concentrating on evidence-based interventions and innovative approaches, additional coursework enables counselors to navigate complex student dynamics and foster systemic improvements through research-driven strategies. For instance, exploring options such as cheap online psychology masters programs can enhance disciplinary expertise and lead to more effective program development and leadership within educational settings.

How can ongoing professional development enhance school counselors' effectiveness?

School counselors benefit from continuous learning initiatives that refine their practices and introduce innovative approaches. Advanced training opportunities allow counselors to acquire specialized techniques, improve crisis intervention skills, and integrate evidence-based strategies into their work. For instance, supplementing core competencies with targeted programs, such as online PsyD clinical psychology, can offer deeper insights into mental health frameworks and enhance support for students facing complex challenges. This commitment to professional growth ultimately translates into improved counseling outcomes and a more adaptive response to evolving student needs.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in the United States?

The employment outlook for school counselors in the United States remains stable, with the BLS projecting a 4% growth in employment from 2023 to 2033. This rate aligns with the average growth for all occupations. Approximately 29,100 job openings  for school and career counselors are anticipated each year, primarily due to the need to replace professionals who retire or transition to other roles.

Despite this steady growth, there is a notable shortage of school counselors in certain regions, particularly in the West and Midwest. For instance, Arizona reports a student-to-counselor ratio of 667-to-1, significantly higher than the American School Counselor Association's (ASCA) recommended ratio of 250-to-1. The average ratio is 385-to-1. This disparity means that many students, especially those in underserved communities, may not have adequate access to essential counseling services.

The demand for school counselors is further amplified by increasing concerns over student mental health, the need for academic guidance, and college and career planning. As educational institutions recognize the critical role counselors play in student development and well-being, efforts are being made to address these shortages and enhance support systems within schools.

What alternative career options are available for school counselors?

School counselors develop a wide range of transferable skills that can open the door to several alternative career paths, both within and outside of educational settings. Whether they are looking for a change of pace, a new challenge, or opportunities for advancement, counselors have several professional options to consider.

So what can you do with a counseling degree? Here are some of your options:

• Licensed Professional Counselor: With additional clinical training and licensure, school counselors can transition into private practice or work in mental health clinics, hospitals, or community agencies as LPCs, offering therapy to individuals and families.
• College Advisor or Admissions Counselor: Many school counselors move into higher education, supporting students in navigating the college admissions process, financial aid, and academic planning at universities or community colleges.
• Career Coach or Workforce Development Specialist: School counselors' experience in career readiness can translate well into roles helping adults or college students prepare for and find employment through job training programs or career centers.
• Education Consultant: Counselors can work independently or with organizations to advise schools on program development, student services, or mental health initiatives.
• School Administrator: With additional credentials, counselors may pursue roles such as assistant principal, dean of students, or director of student services, helping shape school policies and lead student support programs. Speaking of school administrators, what is the difference between EdD and EdS? Hop on to an earlier article on the subject.
• Nonprofit or Advocacy Work: Counselors passionate about equity and student well-being may thrive in nonprofits or advocacy groups focused on youth development, mental health access, or educational reform.
• Social Worker or Case Manager: With proper licensing or training, school counselors can work in social services, supporting clients through community outreach, housing, or family advocacy programs.
• Corporate or Organizational Training and Development: The communication and coaching skills counselors use daily can apply well in corporate environments, particularly in employee training, development, or human resources roles.

These alternative paths reflect the versatility of a school counselor’s expertise and the broad impact they can make in other settings that value communication, empathy, guidance, and problem-solving.

What challenges do school counselors usually face?

While school counselors play a critical role in supporting student success, they also face a number of challenges that can impact their effectiveness and well-being. These obstacles often stem from systemic issues within education, limited resources, and the growing complexity of student needs.

One of the most common challenges is high student-to-counselor ratios. In many schools, counselors are responsible for hundreds of students—well above the American School Counselor Association's recommended ratio of 250-to-1. This makes it difficult to provide individualized attention, especially for students with more intensive academic or emotional needs.

Counselors also deal with increasing mental health concerns among students, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues. While they are trained to provide initial support, many school counselors are not licensed therapists, which can limit the depth of care they’re able to offer. Access to outside mental health resources is not always available or affordable for families.

Additional challenges include:

• Administrative overload, such as handling scheduling, testing coordination, or discipline tasks, which can take time away from direct counseling
• Lack of understanding or support from school leadership or staff regarding the counselor's role and expertise
• Burnout and emotional strain, especially when dealing with crises or carrying the emotional weight of students' struggles
• Limited professional development opportunities, particularly in underfunded school districts

Despite these challenges, school counselors remain dedicated advocates for students. However, addressing these systemic issues is essential to allow them to fully carry out their role in promoting student well-being and academic success.

Here’s What School Counselors Have to Say About Their Roles and Responsibilities

• Working as a high school counselor can be overwhelming at times, especially during college application season when every student needs guidance. The emotional weight of supporting teens through academic stress, family issues, and mental health struggles is real. But there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a student discover their strengths and take charge of their future. That moment of breakthrough makes it all worth it. Lily 
• In elementary school counseling, the challenge lies in helping young children express emotions they don’t fully understand yet. Some days, you're dealing with behavior issues, family trauma, or children who just need someone to listen. It’s demanding, but watching them grow more confident and resilient is truly the best part of the job. Carlos
• Balancing the needs of over 400 middle schoolers means constantly switching gears—one minute you're handling a bullying report, the next you're helping with a class schedule. It's a nonstop pace, and burnout is real, but the connections I make with students and the impact I see in their lives remind me why I chose this profession. Gaby

Key Findings

• As of May 2023, school and career counselors and advisors earned a median annual wage of $65,140.
• Counselors employed in elementary and secondary schools had an annual mean wage of $74,910, while those in junior colleges earned $67,420.
• Employment for school and career counselors is projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033, aligning with the average for all occupations.
• There were approximately 360,800 school and career counselor positions in 2023.
• Certain areas, notably the West and Midwest, face significant counselor shortages. For instance, Arizona reported a student-to-counselor ratio of 667-to-1, far exceeding the American School Counselor Association's recommended 250-to-1 ratio.

Other Things You Should Know About What a School Counselor Does

Can school counselors diagnose mental health disorders?

School counselors are trained to recognize signs of mental health issues, but they are not typically licensed to diagnose clinical disorders. Their role is to provide short-term support and refer students to mental health professionals when deeper intervention is needed. In some cases, if a counselor is also a licensed professional counselor (LPC), they may be qualified to diagnose and treat mental health conditions outside the school setting.

Do school counselors work year-round?

Most school counselors follow the academic calendar, meaning they work during the school year and may have summers off. However, some districts employ counselors year-round, especially in roles that involve summer school, transition planning, or administrative work. The schedule often depends on the school’s needs and the counselor’s contract.

How is a school counselor different from a school psychologist?

While both support student well-being, their roles differ. School counselors focus on academic guidance, career planning, and social/emotional support, whereas school psychologists are more involved in assessing learning disabilities, conducting psychological evaluations, and developing behavioral interventions. The training and certification paths for each profession are also distinct.

What grade levels do school counselors typically work with?

School counselors can work in elementary, middle, or high schools. Their focus shifts depending on the grade level—elementary counselors often emphasize emotional development and behavior support, while high school counselors focus more on academic planning, college readiness, and career guidance. Some counselors are certified to work across multiple grade levels.

References:

• American School Counselor Association. (2024, February 6). ASCA Releases Updated Student-to-School-Counselor Ratio Data. ASCA.
• Contreras, R. (2024, May 26). America's critical shortage of school counselors. Axios. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics | 21-1012 Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Occupational Outlook Handbook | School and Career Counselors and Advisors. BLS. 
• Zippia. (2025, January 8). School Counselor Education Requirements. Zippia.com.