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School Counseling and High School Guidance Counselors

Lackland ISD Counselors hold up coffee cups for Coffee and Counseling event.

Lackland ISD Counselors celebrate Coffee and Counseling event.

School counselors play a vital role in helping students thrive both in and out of the classroom. In Texas public schools, counselors are certified professionals who support students’ academic achievement, emotional well-being, and long-term goals. Whether they’re helping with class schedules, managing peer conflicts, or guiding college planning, school counselors are an essential part of every student’s support team.

Dickinson ISD hosts Teen Talks to keep students motivated in alternative school.

Dickinson ISD hosts Teen Talks to keep students motivated in alternative school.

Typers of School Counselors?

Schools often have different types of counselors based on grade level and student needs:

  • Elementary Counselors 
  • Middle School Counselors
  • High School Counselors
  • Specialized Counselors

How School Counselors Support Students

From kindergarten to high school, school counselors are essential in helping students thrive. They assist learners academically, emotionally, and in planning for the future—working together with teachers and families to create a safe, supportive environment.

Counselors guide students through:

  • Academic development – helping them set goals, manage coursework, and build strong study habits

  • College and career advisement – supporting post-graduation planning, from FAFSA to college options and career paths

  • Social and emotional support – offering a safe space for students dealing with personal challenges, conflict, or stress

Elementary School Counselors
Focus on early emotional development, helping students learn how to identify feelings, make friends, solve problems, and build self-confidence. They often lead classroom lessons on topics like empathy, respect, and decision-making, and provide gentle support for students adjusting to school routines or family transitions.

Middle School Counselors
Help students navigate increased academic expectations and social changes. They assist with course selection, time management, and goal setting while also supporting emotional needs related to peer relationships, identity, and self-esteem. Middle school counselors often introduce early career exploration and high school readiness tools.

High School Counselors
Play a key role in preparing students for life after graduation. They help with credit tracking, college and scholarship applications, FAFSA, and career paths. They also provide support for stress, anxiety, or major life events, ensuring students stay on track academically and emotionally.

Specialized Counselors
In larger districts, students may also have access to counselors focused on specific needs—such as crisis response, mental health support, or college and career advising. These professionals often work alongside general counselors to expand services and meet the diverse needs of today’s students.

Mental Health Concerns

While school counselors are not licensed to diagnose conditions or prescribe medication, they are trained to recognize signs of mental health or learning challenges and refer families to qualified professionals when needed. Access to school-based mental health support has been shown to improve student outcomes—boosting attendance, reducing discipline issues, and helping students feel more connected to school. 

Additional Resources

To contact your child’s counselor, start with your school’s front office or visit your district’s counseling webpage. Counseling sessions are confidential, though exceptions may apply in situations involving student safety.

School Counseling News

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