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Remember that time when you were called to the guidance office?
Many of us dreaded being called to the guidance office. But that's part of school life and most of the time there was really nothing to be scared about, right?
Guidance Counselor Myth Busting
Myth #1
Guidance counselors "fix" problems
Truth #1
Guidance counselors have the necessary counseling skills to facilitate behavior change but they don't have a magic wand that will fix a problem instantly.
Myth #2
Guidance counselors discipline students
Truth #2
Guidance counselors are not disciplinarians. Student discipline is the role of the school administrators.
Myth #3
Guidance counselors only help students who are in trouble
Truth #3
Guidance counselors provide support to all students who need their assistance and sometimes even teachers, school administrators, or parents! Today, their role is multifaceted and includes career counseling and evaluation, academic and social support, and guidance.
Quiz
Which below is NOT a typical responsibility of a guidance counselor when they are working with students?
Guidance counselors do no typically discipline students, focusing instead on moving forward and what students could work on to achieve their goals (whether academic, behavioural, or personal).
Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Guidance Counselor?
Let's have a quick check!
Are you a good listener?
Can you easily empathize with other people?
Are you friendly?
Do you appreciate diversity?
Are you patient and understanding?
If you answered YES to all these questions - then you may have the traits required to be a really good guidance counselor!
Quiz
Which is NOT a trait of a guidance counselor?
Guidance counselors should never be judgmental! Their job is all about making students feel safe and offer guidance (it's right in the job title!)
Did you know?
This Byte was created by a volunteer professional that wanted to share this insight to help you succeed - no agenda, no cost.
You'll Love It if...
You enjoy doing a variety of work. A guidance counsellor's life is never boring!
You want to make a difference and a positive impact on others.
You find helping students and watching them improve and succeed rewarding!
Look For Another Career Path if...
You hate listening to complaints and problems.
You hate working long hours.
You are not willing to go the extra mile to help and guide others.
Take Action
If you feel you have what it takes to be a guidance counselor, good for you!
Now check out the list below on how you can become one!
This Byte has been authored by
Cielo Abarquez
Instructional Designer