There are a few professions that people can join to aid in them becoming a school counselor. Psychiatrists and others with psychology degrees can do wonderful in that field, but an often forgotten career avenue is that of a teacher.
Teachers will have had experience working directly with children for years, trying to teach and manage a classroom day after day. More than that, you will see how different children respond to stressors. Learn more about how home life can impact a child’s development, and see first-hand how important it is that some children get hands-on help from a counselor.
With online learning, it is also straightforward to go from being a teacher to school counselor, and in doing so you can put in some great changes that truly help those in need. Becoming a counselor will require you to obtain a masters in the subject, and to tick the following boxes:
You Want to Help Children
A school counselor will be working directly with children on a one-on-one basis, and want to help them in any way you can is essential. Kids don’t yet have the ability to properly express or manage their emotions, and things get even more difficult when they go through puberty. This can mean some cases will be easy; others will be very difficult and may make you question your career choice. It is your resolution to help the next generation that will pull you through the bad days.
You Understand Outside Influences Impact a Child’s Future
It is important to understand how children become who they are and what factors will impact their lives. Recognizing the signs of abuse, for example, is a crucial skill for a school counselor, as is understanding that some behavior is learned by not necessary favored ways. Be open to where kids come from, their background, and their stressors.
You Want to Work on Cases One-on-One
Teachers work with big groups, but underfunded schools often mean classes that are so big that you cannot adequately give every child the attention he or she deserves.
You Are Empathetic
You need to be able to relate to these children to get them to open up to you. Every case requires a counselor who is actually listening and ready to help, not one that is working hard to push as many kids through as possible.
You Are Great at Task Management
When you are a good counselor, kids will take notice and turn to you for help. To stay on top of everyone’s case and to help them best, you will need to be very good at note-taking and task management.
You Are Ready to Do All It Takes to Get Your Degree
To become a school counselor, you will need formal qualifications. Switching from being a teacher to a counselor can be difficult, but with online learning and part-time attendance, you can accomplish everything you set your mind to. Just perfect your time management skills and build healthy routines necessary to support you as you juggle your career as a teacher and your education towards your degree.
