To become a guidance counselor, each state has certain educational requirements. Most states require a college degree plus one to two years of special study in guidance counseling. Some states may also require teaching experience. Personal characteristics are just as important as educational requirements when it comes to being a guidance counselor. You must have the capablities of being caring, patient, and open-minded, and to believe that everyone can change. One of a guidance counselor's main goals is to help students understand themselves so they can develop into adults who are capable of living productive and fulfilling lives.
Guidance counseling started about 100 years ago with caring teachers that helped their students plan for their future. By the early 1900's, students had more occupational and educational options so guidance counseling became a profession. Today's students opportunities are more varied but so are the problems and concerns of our society. Changes in our society seem to happen rapidly and the amount of new information people are expected to absorb seems to be growing just as quickly. All of these factors emphasize the need for trained guidance counselors to help students learn to lead meaningful and statisfying lifes.
Guidance counselors do so many things and provide such valuable information for a student who might be struggling with life choices. They can counsel students individually or sometimes in small groups. A guidance counselors job can range from leading a classroom discussion to administering placement tests. They also meet with students, parents, teachers, and other members of the school staff to discuss important issues. They also help students arrange their classroom schedules.
Guidance and Counselling
Comprehensive