The Role of the School Counselor
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
Role of the school counselor
They act as a bridge between students, parents, teachers, and the community.
School counselors play a key role in supporting students’ academic, personal, and social development.
Frequently used words describing the school counselor’s roles
Advisor,
advocate,
agent,
believer,
collaborator,
conductor,
consultant,
coordinator,
diplomat,
educator,
enthusiast,
expert,
explorer,
guide,
initiator,
leader,
listener,
mediator,
mentor,
motivator,
navigator,
negotiator,
observer,
pedagogue,
professional,
psychologist,
researcher,
specialist,
supporter,
teacher
Academic Guidance: helping students with course selection and study skills.
The Role of the School Counselor
Career Counseling: supporting career choices and vocational planning.
The Role of the School Counselor
Introducing Career Exploration Workshops
Organizing sessions where professionals present career paths to students, helping them understand what skills are needed and how to plan their future.
Emotional Support: providing a safe space to discuss problems and stress.
The Role of the School Counselor
Theatre Clubs, Volunteering activites, Charity campaigns
Develop self-expression, confidence, and teamwork, give students the opportunity to show empathy, leadership, and responsibility in their community.
Conflict Resolution: mediating between students or between students and teachers.
The Role of the School Counselor
Best Practices in Bulgaria – The Role of the School Counselor
Career Orientation and Counseling Programs
Many Bulgarian schools implement career days, fairs, and workshops in partnership with universities and businesses.
Best practice outcome: Helps students make informed choices about their future education and career.
Prevention and Well-being Initiatives, �Community Cooperation��-Schools run anti-bullying campaigns, mental health awareness, substance abuse prevention.� - Strong partnerships between schools and municipalities in Bulgaria (for example, joint cultural events, volunteering, environmental campaigns).���Best practice outcome: Students develop social responsibility and teamwork skills, aligned with the counselor’s mission.�
Training and Competencies�
Required Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Psychology, Education, or Counseling.
Key Skills:
Active listening and empathy
Communication and mediation
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Cultural awareness and inclusion
Continuous Professional Development (CPD):
Regular workshops, seminars, and Erasmus+ exchanges.
Common Challenges
Too few counselors – too many students.
Not enough money for mental health and inclusion projects.
Students are afraid to ask for help.
Schools and communities need to work together more.
European Perspectives��International Projects (Erasmus+, eTwinning)�
Conclusion
School counselors are vital for the well-being and success of students.
Through collaboration, innovation, and shared practices, we can overcome challenges.
Together, we can create a strong European framework for school counseling.
"The best way to predict the future is to create it." – Peter Drucker
Thank You
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.