High School Counseling Conversations

If you've ever been curious about the differences in school counseling roles based on the grade levels they support, then this episode is for you. I'm joined by Alabama school counselors, Laura Rankhorn and Kim Cumbley. Between the three of us, we have experience as elementary, middle, and high school counselors. Our conversation centers around the differences and similarities between these grade levels. You might be surprised to find that our skills are really interchangeable in any grade level! One thing is for sure – there's so much opportunity to collaborate with school counselors who support grades other than your own.The building blocks are established by elementary school counselors, especially in developing social-emotional skills in students, and high school counselors must continue this work. Elementary, middle, and high school counseling roles may have their differences, but at the core, they all share the same goal of providing stellar support to students.If you're considering a leap between grade levels, don't be afraid! Embrace it as something new and full of possibilities. If high school is where you're headed, my audio course, The High School Counseling Kickstart can offer additional support!Resources Mentioned: Join The High School Counselor Kickstart CourseGet on the waitlist for The Clique CollaborativeShop Counselor Clique back-to-school resourcesThe Counselor Accents PodcastBook: Growing Your Program for School Counselors by Laura Rankhorn and Kim CrumbleyLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/comparing-school-counseling-roles/

I love sharing ideas, tips, and advice about all things related to school counseling. But nothing excites me more than the energy, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective of new high school counselors! They're full of ideas and ready to hit the ground running. So if you're a new high school counselor wondering, “What do I need to know before the school year begins?”—this episode is for you.Starting out in this role can feel overwhelming, so in today's episode, I'm sharing four must-listen podcast episodes specifically for new high school counselors. Each one highlights a different aspect of school counseling and includes a short clip with practical advice or a helpful idea to consider.This podcast is a way for me to support school counselors, especially those who are just getting started or looking for fresh ideas, whether it's for running small groups or using data effectively. So if you're new to the role, be sure to check out these four episodes to help you feel more confident and prepared heading into the fall.Resources Mentioned: Resource: High School Planning Mega BundleResource: School Counselor Beginning of the Year Presentation Resource: Bulletin Board Bundle 2Free Resource: New Counselor Podcast PlaylistResource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio CoursePodcast: Episode 32, Back to School Tips for High School Counselors: Office Prep Podcast: Episode 73, What I Wish I Knew as a Beginning High School CounselorPodcast: Episode 72, Don't Make These Mistakes as a New High School Counselor (and What to Do Instead!)Podcast: Episode 22, A Pep Talk for New High School CounselorsLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook

As the school year wraps up and summer break draws near, it's tempting to mentally check out and leave everything behind. But before you do, there are a few key steps you can take that will save you headaches next fall and make your summer more peaceful! In this episode, I guide you through three simple yet powerful end-of-year tasks to help you wrap things up thoughtfully and set yourself and your students up for success.You'll learn how to capture important data and reflections while they're still fresh, ensure students who need extra support have access to summer resources, and dream big about your summer, whether that means professional growth or well-deserved relaxation. If you want to step into summer with a clear plan and a lighter load next year, this episode is for you. Don't forget to check out the resources I mention to take action right away and start the new school year stress-free!Resources Mentioned: Resource: End of Year BundleFree Resource: 3-Day Interview Video ChallengePodcast: Episode 168, You've Collected Data All Year - Here's What to Do With It NowLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode169

You've been collecting data all year—student attendance, classroom lesson frequency, intervention effectiveness, and student stories… but now what? In this episode, I'm walking you through exactly what to do with all that school counseling data so it actually works for you. Because let's be real, data is only powerful if you know how to use it to show your students' progress and advocate for your role as a school counselor.You'll hear how to make sense of the data you've collected all year without getting overwhelmed. Whether you've set SMART goals, facilitated small groups, or tracked individual student progress, I walk you through how to pull that information together in a meaningful way. We'll review the three types of data to track and the important role each of them plays. Most importantly, you'll walk away with five different places where you can share out your school counseling data. You didn't gather all of that information only to not do something with it!Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: Podcast Playlist for New High School CounselorsFree Resource: Data Collection Ideas GuideBlog: 4 Valuable Places to Share Your Compelling School Counseling DataBlog: 3 Unassuming Ways to Incorporate Perception Data Into Your High School Counseling Program Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode168

From awkward group projects to job interviews, communication is the life skill students will use daily, but rarely get taught. In the final episode of my “Life Skills Your Students Should Master” series, we're diving into healthy communication life skills - the kind that makes a lasting impact on students' personal and professional lives. If you missed last week's episode on time management or the one before that on budgeting, be sure to check those out too! In this episode, I'll share why communication is a must-have life skill, how it ties into ASCA mindsets and behaviors, and my favorite hands-on methods to help students practice. Whether it's role-playing tricky social situations or handling difficult conversations, I'm offering practical ways to get students comfortable with communicating, no matter how uncomfortable the topic.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Communicating Feelings Classroom LessonResource: Soft Skills Bundle Resource: Healthy Relationships Classroom LessonFree Resource: New Counselor Podcast PlaylistASCA Mindsets and BehaviorsPodcast: Episode 165, Life Skills Your Students Should Master [Part 1: Budgeting Basics]Podcast: Episode 166, Life Skills Your Students Should Master [Part 2: Time Management]Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative

Time management is one of those essential life skills that often gets overlooked—and yet it can make a huge difference in a student's success both now and in the future. In this episode, we're continuing our life skills series (listen to part one HERE!) with a focus on helping high schoolers understand and practice effective time management before they graduate. You'll hear how this skill connects to ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors and why it's a game-changer for building independence.I'll share simple, practical ways to introduce time management through your counseling program, from identifying schedule non-negotiables to exploring planning tools students will actually use. You'll also get strategies to help students build routines, increase self-awareness, and approach it all with grace and empathy. Be sure to check out the resources below to put these ideas into action!Resources Mentioned: Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio CourseResource: Organization Digital Counseling Activity Resource: Life After High School Classroom LessonResource: Transition to College Digital Presentation Resource: End of Year High School Counseling BundlePodcast: Episode 166, Life Skills Your Students Should Master [Part 1: Budgeting Basics]Podcast: Episode 83, How to Use Needs Assessments Strategically This Year in Your High School Counseling ProgramResource: ASCA Mindsets & BehaviorsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook

Imagine if your students graduated not just with academic knowledge, but real-world skills they'll use every day. Today we're starting that conversation. I'm kicking off a three-part series that will cover essential life skills that students should master before they leave high school, no matter what their post-secondary plans are.First up: the basics of budgeting - a skill so many students are missing when they leave high school. I'm sharing why financial literacy matters now more than ever, how you can easily tie it into the ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors, and some creative ways to make budgeting relatable (and even a little fun!) for your students. You'll also hear why understanding their own money mindset is key to setting them up for success.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Student Budgeting WorkbookResource: Financial Literacy BundleResource: ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode165Mentioned in this episode:TPT Sitewide Sale: 25% All Counselor Clique High School Counseling Resources Using the Promo Code THANKYOU25 on 5/6-5/8 https://counselorclique.com/shop

When it comes to student mental health, the need is huge, but the budget? Not so much. If you've ever looked around your school and thought, “How am I supposed to support these students with so little to work with?”, this episode is for you. I'm sharing five practical, low-cost (or completely free) ways to address mental health needs on your campus.Whether you're part of a fully staffed counseling department or flying solo, the truth is, you don't have to do this alone. These strategies aren't about adding more to your plate; they're about giving you tools you can have in your back pocket, so you're not starting from scratch in the middle of a crisis. Having these tools ready will help you feel more confident and grounded when it matters most!Resources Mentioned: Resource: Grief BundleResource: Digital Activities Mega BundleResource: Coping Skills PresentationResource: NAMIResource: Everfi- Mental Wellness Course (free)Podcast: Episode 154, How to Set Up a Peer Leader Program in Your SchoolPodcast: Episode 119, From Off-Track to Graduation: Counselor Tips for Supporting At-Risk StudentsPodcast: Episode 102, Support Strategies for Meeting Your High School Students' Mental Health NeedsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email to lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website:

Substance use in schools isn't just a “some kids” issue. It's happening across all kinds of student groups and the trends are changing fast. In this episode, I'm joined by Kriya Lendzion, a therapist, addiction specialist, and powerhouse speaker who is helping us understand what teens are using and what we can actually do about it as school counselors.We talk about evolving substances like THC and nicotine, the mental health impacts of use, and realistic ways to support students - without needing to be the expert. Kriya shares ideas for prevention programs, conversation starters, and how to make your messaging more effective. You'll also get tips for working with parents and the wider school community, so you're not navigating this alone. Grab the resources linked below...you'll want them!Resources Mentioned: Substance Use ResourcesFree Educator ResourcesPodcast: Episode 112, Solution-Focused School Counseling with Dr. Russell A. SabellaLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode163Mentioned in this episode:Learn 3 powerful tips for interviewing for high school counseling jobs with confidence through this video series: https://counselorclique.com/interviews/

After graduation, students are eager to jump into the next chapter of their lives, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. Summer melt is real, and it can make the transition to the next chapter way harder than it needs to be. In this episode, I'm breaking down what summer melt is, why it happens, and, most importantly, what we can do to help students stay on track. It's all about finding solutions and making sure our students have the support they need when they need it the most!We'll talk about the reasons why students sometimes lose momentum after graduation and how that can impact their future plans. I'll share six main ideas for how school counselors can help transition seniors smoothly into their post-graduation plans. From simple check-ins to providing extra resources, we've got a lot of ways to step in and help bridge the gap between graduation and the fall semester. We've got this! Let's make sure your students don't just drift away over the summer but move confidently into whatever comes next.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Transition to College Presentation Resource: Life After High School Classroom LessonPodcast: Episode 140, Highs and Lows of Working with Seniors with Brittany SlaglePodcast: Episode 120, Accepting the Reality That Some Seniors Might Not GraduatePodcast: Episode 68, 4 Ways to Repurpose Student Pictures to Celebrate Your SeniorsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode162

What if students could earn college credits, explore the world, and gain invaluable life experience, all before starting their traditional college journey? In this episode, I sit down with Neal Crosson from Verto Education to talk about a unique yet powerful path: first-year study abroad programs. We dive into how these programs work, who they're best suited for, and how counselors can support students considering this path. Plus, we tackle key questions around credit transferability, program structure, and what makes a student a great fit for this experience. Let's expand the conversation around post-high school options, because for the right student, a first-year study abroad could be a game-changer!Resources Mentioned: Verto Education WebsitePodcast: Episode 147, Exploring Gap Year Opportunities for Your Students (or You!) with Julia RogersLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode161

Are non-counseling duties taking over your job? If you're spending more time on testing, paperwork, and hall duty than actually working with students, you're not alone and it doesn't have to be this way. In this episode, I dive into the reality of these overwhelming responsibilities and why they can lead to burnout and resentment. But don't worry, I'm not just here to vent! I'm sharing practical ways to manage these tasks so you can get back to what you do best: supporting your students.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Student Ambassadors ProgramResource: Beginning of the Year PresentationFree Resource: New Counselor Podcast PlaylistFree Resource: 4-Day High School Counseling Advocacy Email ChallengePodcast: Episode 156, Time Management Strategies to Lighten Your Mental Load as a School Counselor with Kaci RangerPodcast: Episode 154, How to Set Up a Peer Leader Program in Your SchoolLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode160

The college search should be an exciting journey, but for many students, it's filled with pressure, competition, and anxiety. Too often, students and parents fixate on prestigious schools without considering whether they're truly the right fit, leading to stress and a loss of self-discovery in the process. Today's guests, Jen and Jared, school counselors and co-founders of Forget the Rankings, are here to change that! They're challenging the traditional, prestige-driven mindset and introducing a values-based approach that helps students find colleges that align with their personal goals, priorities, and well-being!Jen and Jared have developed a powerful tool that encourages meaningful conversations between students and parents about what truly matters in a college experience. By shifting the focus from rankings to values, they're making the application process less overwhelming and more empowering. In this episode, they share how their approach is not only helping students make better college decisions but also improving their mental health and confidence along the way.Resources Mentioned: Forget the Rankings Resources (values cards and more!)Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comConnect with Jared and Jen:Instagram: @forget_the_rankingsLinkedInWebsiteEmail: jared@forgettherankings.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode159

Choosing the right college is one of the biggest decisions a student will make. But what if there was a way to explore campuses across the country without ever leaving home? In this episode, I sat down with Alex Boylan, the creator and host of The College Tour, to talk about how the show is changing the way students and families approach the college search. After visiting over 180 college campuses in just four years, Alex definitely knows a thing or two about the process!Instead of relying solely on traditional campus visits, The College Tour gives an inside look at colleges through the eyes of real students, offering a fresh and engaging way to explore potential schools. Alex shares valuable advice on what students and families can do before and during campus visit to truly get a feel for a school. Plus, we discuss how The College Tour is helping counselors guide students in making more informed decisions about their futures.And for those worried about the financial side of college? Alex touches on an exciting new tool that could be a game-changer in helping students manage costs. This conversation will give you plenty of ideas on how to utilize The College Tour TV as a valuable tool in your counseling program!Resources Mentioned:Free Resource: The College Tour Counselor ToolkitWatch The College Tour TVResource: First Generation Small GroupResource: College BundleResource: Small Group BundleLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode158

Think college searches have to be boring and overwhelming? Think again! In this episode, I sit down with Sam Bernstein, co-founder of the Loper app, to talk about how gamification is shaking up the college search process. We all know that researching colleges can feel like an endless, stressful task for students and for you as counselors trying to guide them. But what if there was a way to make it engaging, intuitive, and even FUN? That's exactly what Sam and his team set out to do with Loper, and he's here to share how it's helping students take charge of their college exploration in a whole new way.Sam breaks down how Loper's game-inspired design hooks students from the start with a swipe-based interface and chat-style onboarding…no intimidating college lists or endless research required. Instead of feeling pressured to have everything figured out, students can explore schools in a way that feels natural and exciting. Whether they're hyper-focused on college, just starting to think about it, or completely unsure of their next step, Loper meets them where they are. And here's what else caught my attention—Loper isn't just about four-year colleges. Sam shares how they're expanding the app to include two-year programs, trade schools, and other postsecondary paths, giving students a bigger picture of what's possible. This episode is packed with guidance on how you, as counselors, can use technology to make the college search process more accessible and less overwhelming. After listening, download the app (it's free!) and take a look around. I know you'll enjoy the conversations it sparks with your students!Resources Mentioned: College Readiness PlaylistLoper AppLead for AmericaLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode157

Are you constantly juggling emails, student crises, and endless paperwork, feeling like there's NEVER enough time in the day? I think most of you feel this way! That's why I invited Kaci Ranger on the podcast to talk about practical time management strategies designed specifically for school counselors. We cover simple, effective ways to create structure in your day, set boundaries, and use digital tools to lighten your mental load.Kaci shares actionable tips that make organization feel doable, whether you're just starting your counseling career or looking to refine your existing systems. From setting up an ideal schedule to taming your inbox, we discuss strategies that help you take control of your time and focus on what truly matters - supporting your students. And the best part? These tweaks don't require learning complicated software or overhauling everything at once. They're small, strategic changes that can make a big difference in how you manage your workload.So, where will you start? Maybe it's setting up a simple request form, limiting your email checks, or finally putting your ideal schedule into action. Whatever it is, I'd love to hear about it! Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know which tips you're implementing first. And don't forget to share this episode with your co-counselors. These time management strategies are even more powerful when you put them into practice as a team!Resources Mentioned: Podcast: Episode 44, Owning Your Time Management By Using Your CalendarPodcast: Episode 103, Rachel Davis Shows Us How to Reclaim Our Schedule With a Time AuditPodcast: Episode 106, Increase Your Job Satisfaction by Setting and Keeping Boundaries: Here's How!More episodes on time managementLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode156

Have you ever felt like parents don't understand what you actually do as a school counselor? I know I've experienced this more times than I can count! In this episode, I dive into the challenges of working with parents who may not fully grasp your role and how that misunderstanding can sometimes lead to frustration or even hostility. While it's easy to feel discouraged, let's remember that you're on the same team, and approaching these conversations with kindness, patience, and clarity can make all the difference!I share personal experiences with difficult parent interactions and explore some of the reasons behind why parents don't understand your role, whether it's past experiences with counselors, unrealistic media portrayal, or simply not knowing how packed your days truly are. Instead of letting these moments derail us, I'm bringing you strategies to set boundaries, communicate expectations, and educate parents about your work.Resources Mentioned: The Clique Collaborative High School Counseling MembershipLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode155

What if you could create a program that not only helps your students grow as leaders but also strengthens your entire school community? That's exactly what we're diving into today! I'm breaking down how to set up a successful peer leader program that empowers students, builds relationships, and lightens your counseling load.I'll walk you through the key steps to selecting student ambassadors, training them effectively, and ensuring your peer leader program runs smoothly all year long! You'll hear real-life examples of what worked in my school and how we structured our program to make a real impact. Whether you want your peer leaders to welcome new students or develop leadership skills, this episode will give you the roadmap to make it happen.If you're ready to implement a peer leader program that truly benefits your students and your school, grab my Student Ambassador and Leadership Small Group Bundle to help you get started! This is a great first step toward launching a program your students will love.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Student Ambassadors Small GroupResource: Leadership Small GroupResource: Student Ambassadors and Leadership Small Group BundleLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode154Mentioned in this episode:The Clique Collaborative is your monthly professional development community where high school counselors come to grow their confidence, sharpen their skills, and connect with others who actually get

Have you ever stopped to truly notice the world around you—the small moments and subtle ways people carry the weight of their day? In this unique episode, I'm sharing a spoken word piece by Leah Grant, a high school counselor and podcast listener, who beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be a counselor. Through her quiet observations in the hallways, she reflects on the emotional toll of social media, the growing disconnect from real human connection, and how these shifts have transformed the high school experience.Leah doesn't just share what she notices. She also reveals how she helps students process their emotions, navigate difficult situations, and reconnect with the world around them. Her words will make you pause, reflect, and see your own role in a new light. I have a feeling this episode will stay with you long after you listen, and if it resonates with you, I encourage you to share it with a friend!Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: 4-Day High School Counseling Advocacy Email ChallengeLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode153Mentioned in this episode:The Clique Collaborative is your monthly professional development community where high school counselors come to grow their confidence, sharpen their skills, and connect with others who actually get it. Join us inside the membership at www.cliquecollab.com. Use the limited-time promo codes FEBMONTHLY to save 15% for 3 months or FEBANNUAL to save 15% on your annual membership before doors close on February 20.

After 150 episodes without a break, I finally hit pause - and it was the best decision! But now we're back with a mid-year check in and pep talk. Plus, I'm sharing what I learned during my three-month hiatus and how it's brought fresh inspiration for the podcast. I've got lots of incredible guests lined up and plenty of actionable tips and resources coming your way in 2025!You'll hear me share the ups and downs of podcasting, including dealing with imposter syndrome and the pressure to create content that hits the mark for you! Your encouragement means the world to me, and I'd love to hear your feedback on what topics you'd like covered next. So send me a message anytime on Instagram @counselorclique!You're doing incredible work, and I want this podcast to always remind you of that! From managing overwhelming caseloads to making a difference in your students' lives, I know your job isn't easy. That's why I'm here to cheer you on and provide tools to help. Don't miss my free four-day email advocacy challenge - it's perfect for National School Counseling Week and beyond!Resources Mentioned: Resource: The Clique Collaborative MembershipResource: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerFree Resource: 4-Day High School Counseling Advocacy Email ChallengeLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode152Mentioned in this episode:Sign up for my 4-Day Advocacy Email Challenge, where I have some ready-made email templates for you to copy, paste, and put your spin on before sending them out to your admin, teachers, and staff. Run a mini PR campaign for your role without lifting a finger. Grab these templates today by going to https://counselorclique.com/challenge

Can you believe that in 150 episodes of this podcast, I've never taken a week off from releasing episodes? Well, the time has come! High School Counseling Conversations will be on an official break from November 2024-January 2025. I'll return with new episodes in February 2025.While we're on break, I invite you to enjoy previous episodes (check out my favorite playlists below!). If you have a specific topic you're looking for, send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique. Thank you for being a listener of the show!Check Out These Podcast Playlists While We're on a Break:Advocacy: https://counselorclique.com/advocacyplaylist Reset for the New Year: https://counselorclique.com/resetplaylistClassroom Lessons: http://counselorclique.com/classroomplaylistCollege Readiness: https://counselorclique.com/collegeplaylistNew Counselors: http://counselorclique.com/newcounselorplaylistSmall Group Counseling: https://counselorclique.com/smallgroupplaylistResources Mentioned: Guest Episode Application: https://counselorclique.com/podcastguestLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

We talk about a lot of sensitive topics as school counselors, and today is no exception. We're taking a deep dive into child sex trafficking. Heavy, I know. But with sex trafficking happening all around us, this just might be the conversation you never knew you needed to hear.I'm joined by Krystal Nierman of Switch, an organization fighting to end sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. Krystal shares what sex trafficking really looks like…and there's a good chance it's not what you think! Plus, you'll hear how to spot the red flags among students, what to do if you suspect it's happening, and actions we can take (and teach to others) to help prevent sex trafficking.Be sure to check the links below for more valuable resources on this topic. This is something that could be affecting students at your own school in various ways, so keep asking questions and follow your gut if you feel like something is off. Share this episode with fellow counselors to help spread awareness around child sex trafficking!Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: Editable Scholarship Spreadsheet - https://counselorclique.com/scholarship Switch Website: https://switchsc.orgNational Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMC): https://www.missingkids.org/home Child Sex Trafficking: https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/trafficking Child Sexual Abuse Material: https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/csam National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE): https://endsexualexploitation.orgConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode150

What do you do if a student tells you they're pregnant? There's a good chance you were asked this question during a job interview because it's a situation that you will probably run into sooner rather than later. In fact, if you've been a high school counselor for any length of time, it's highly likely that you've already supported pregnant students! The truth is, you want to be prepared to not only support your students during their pregnancy but also throughout their journey as a teen parent. As we know, the challenges your students will face don't end after having their baby. There are interventions you can put in place to help your pregnant students transition to parenthood and reach their future goals.In this episode, I'm sharing ideas for supporting your pregnant students in three specific areas: their relationships, their knowledge, and their motivation. You'll hear about resources and sample questions that you can ask your parenting and pregnant students in each of these categories. If you have questions or ideas around serving this unique population, send me a message on Instagram @counselorclique! Resources Mentioned: Resource: The Clique Collaborative - www.cliquecollab.com Resource: Classroom Lesson Roadmap - http://www.counselorclique.com/classroomroadmap Resource: CDC Teen Pregnancy DataResource: U.S. and State Trends on Teen Births, 1990-2019Resource: U.S. Teen Birth Rate Reached Another Historic Low in 2022Resource: Teen Birth Rate by StateArticle: State Teen Birth Rates by Race and Hispanic Origin: United States, 2017–2018 (Hamilton, 2020) Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode149Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative

You may not realize this, but you have a unique superpower in your role as a high school counselor! You have the ability to nurture your students and walk them through four of the most important years of their life. One practice that will help you strengthen this superpower is cultural competency.Today's guest, Jocelynn Hubbard, is here to help us develop cultural competency at work and in our personal lives. It starts with becoming more aware of your beliefs, your biases, and all of your lived experiences. Then you start to see how this compares with your students and how you can use that information to better support them as individuals. Jocelynn breaks down exactly what cultural competency is and how it can inform your counseling practice. She gives great examples of what this practice looks like day to day. You'll quickly see how every moment of your day can become an opportunity to develop cultural competency and strengthen relationships with your students! After listening, you can download Jocelynn's Roadmap to inform you of your next steps.Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: Scholarship Spreadsheet - https://counselorclique.com/scholarship Free Resource: The Welcoming & Culturally Inclusive Classroom Roadmap - https://customteachingsolutions.com/theroadmap/ Jocelynn's Podcast: The Culture-Centered ClassroomResource: What Should Culturally Relevant Teaching Look Like Today? Gloria Ladson-Billings ExplainsResource: Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy, by Gholdy Muhammad Resource: Dr. Geneva GayLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode148Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Have your students ever expressed interest in taking a gap year? A gap year is more than just time off! It's a deliberate period to explore personal, practical, and professional interests before transitioning to post-secondary education. Under the right circumstances, and with intentional planning, a gap year could be the perfect option for some students.This is a topic we've never discussed on the podcast before, so I'm excited to talk about it today. Gap year education expert, Julia Rogers, joins me in this episode to break down exactly what a gap year is (and isn't) and to share various gap year opportunities for your high school students. From traveling in Europe to working locally or taking a structured experiential semester, the possibilities for a gap year are endless. After listening to this conversation, you'll have plenty of resources to share with students and parents…and you might even find that you're interested in taking your own gap year!Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: Editable Scholarship Spreadsheet - https://counselorclique.com/scholarship Resource: Join the GYA Annual Membership for $10 with code GYEM2024 - https://www.gapyearassociation.org/gya-membership/high-school-college-counselors/Resource: The Gap Year AssociationResource: Gap Year Planning GuideResource: Gap Year Exploration MonthResource: Go OverseasResource: USA Gap Year FairsResource: TeenLifeLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode147 Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

When you work in a school, there are a million and one things to think about every single day. School safety is at the top of that list, and might even be one of the more intimidating parts of your job. If there was a crisis, would you know what to do? Do you have a strong grasp on what your role as a school counselor is when it comes to crisis management? Let's talk about it!My guest today, Brandy Samuell, knows quite a bit about school safety and crisis management. Brandy is the director of mental health and related services at eLuma and has an extensive background in public education. She's here to share her story of how she handled being in a leadership position during a tragedy in her school district, and what she learned from the experience.Brandy and I talk through preventative measures and interventions that counselors can put in place for students and practical tips for creating a safe school environment. While we might not want to think about worst-case scenarios happening in our school, it's important to be prepared for them! If this episode is helpful for you, please share it with a counselor friend and leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Back-to-School High School Counseling Bundle - https://counselorclique.com/btsbundleResource: Grief and Loss Digital Activity - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Grief-and-Loss-Digital-School-Counseling-Activity-7045695?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20145&utm_campaign=Grief%20and%20Loss%20Digital Resource: Crisis Bucket for School Counselors - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Crisis-Bucket-for-School-Counselors-4391950?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20145&utm_campaign=Crisis%20Bucket%20ResourceResource: Critical Incident Stress Management Resource: DESSA Aperture SystemLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode146Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email

Have you checked your phone's screen time lately? If you're anything like me, you might be embarrassed about how much time you actually spend on your phone, specifically the time spent scrolling on social media. I use social media for both work and personal purposes, and I was beginning to feel like I was spending way more time on these apps than I wanted to be.So, I decided to challenge myself by giving up social media for a month! I was curious to see how a break from social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook would affect my daily life. In this episode, I'm sharing the highs and lows of this experiment. You'll hear how it felt to step away from the digital noise, the impact on my personal relationships, and even some unexpected benefits I discovered along the way. This conversation also applies to your professional role. As school counselors, our relationship with social media can be a double-edged sword. While it helps us connect and share valuable resources, it's important to maintain a healthy balance. I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on your own social media habits and even take on a similar challenge if you're feeling up to it! If you have ever tried a social media hiatus, send me a message on Instagram @counselorclique (yes, I'm back, but with healthy boundaries!) or an email to lauren@counselorclique.com. I'd love to know how it went for you!Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: Scholarship Spreadsheet - https://counselorclique.com/scholarship Resource: Healthy Relationships Classroom Lesson - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Healthy-Relationships-Classroom-Lesson-for-High-School-Students-7176249?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20146&utm_campaign=Healthy%20Relationships%20Classroom Resource: Soft Skills Bundle - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Soft-Skills-Bundle-for-High-School-Students-8194384?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20146&utm_campaign=Soft%20Skills%20BundleBook: 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You by Troy Reinke - https://amzn.to/4cJQ0nD Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on...

As school counselors, we know that not all of our students are going to go to college after graduating. However, for the students who do have college in their future plans, we want to make the application process as accessible as possible. Cue: College Application Day!Hosting a College Application Day is one of the best ways that we can support students as they begin their college application journey. Applying to colleges is an intimidating step for many high schoolers, so hosting a day dedicated to walking them through the process gives them a safe space to tackle this task!Now if you've never hosted a College Application Day before, you may be wondering what you need to do to get this event rolling and make it as successful as possible. I've got you covered! In this episode, I'll walk you through all the details of hosting a College Application Day from beginning to end. Hopefully, with my advice, you'll be ready to plan and execute an epic College Application Day at your school this year!Resources Mentioned: High School Counselor Kickstart Course: https://counselorclique.com/newcounselor I Applied Bulletin Board: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/I-Applied-College-Bulletin-Board-for-High-School-Counselors-4152773?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20143&utm_campaign=I%20Applied%20BB College Application Day Pennant Bulletin Board: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/College-Application-Day-Pennant-Bulletin-Board-for-High-School-3400067?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20143&utm_campaign=College%20App%20Day%20Pennant%20BB College Application Day Photo Booth Props: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/College-Application-Day-Photo-Booth-Props-for-High-School-Senior-Events-4936579?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20143&utm_campaign=CAD%20Photo%20Booth%20Props College Awareness Bulletin Board: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/College-Awareness-High-School-Bulletin-Board-7270947?utm_source=Podcast%20Ep%20143&utm_campaign=College%20Awareness%20BB Free Playlist: College Application Day Spotify Playlist: https://counselorclique.com/collegeappdayplaylist More episodes on college readiness: https://feeds.captivate.fm/high-school-counseling/college-readiness-high-school-counseling-/Blog - All the Steps for Hosting a Successful College Application Day:

Have you ever held a “Coffee with the Counselor” event at your school? This can be a great opportunity for parents to connect with counselors and other parents all while learning about a particular topic.I've held several “Coffee with the Counselor” events in the past, and some have been a huge hit while others didn't quite have the turnout we'd hoped for. Along the way, I learned what logistics you need to plan for and I'm sharing them with you today. I'll run through all the details so you can get started on prepping your very own “Coffee with the Counselor”!Running an event like this doesn't have to be a huge undertaking. Just a bit of minimal planning can make a huge impact on parents and students. Getting parents through the door is a win in itself, right? If you've hosted “Coffee with the Counselor” before, I'd love to hear about it! Send me a message on Instagram @counselorclique to let me know what went well or what you're hoping to improve on for next time.Resources:Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Course - https://counselorclique.com/newcounselor Resource: NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness] - https://www.nami.org/Blog: Why I Love "Coffee with the Counselors" - https://counselorclique.com/coffee-with-the-counselors/Book: Love and Logic by Jim Fay - https://amzn.to/3zPE6Kz Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode143

Begin with the end in mind. You've probably heard this advice before, but I want it to be your mantra this school year! One of the best things you can do at the beginning of a new school year is to plan your year. I've talked on the podcast before about using organizational tools, such as a calendar, to give you a visual of your year and showcase all the good things you're doing as a counselor. So, in today's episode, I'm sharing why you need to plan your year with a 10,000-foot view and the benefits it has on your year's success.You know how busy you are as a high school counselor and the many directions you're being pulled throughout the year, which is one of the many reasons you should plan your year at the beginning of the school year. And while keeping track of your tasks helps with scheduling, there's more to your job than just administrative tasks. By taking the time to plan your year, you're also able to add events and tasks that fill your cup. After all, you got into this profession because you love it and want to fill your year with things you enjoy doing that serve your students and your counseling program!Although it may feel overwhelming to think about planning an entire year, by doing so, you avoid missing anything important, can think about the goals you have, and can schedule events and tasks that bring you joy as a high school counselor. If you want to limit your stress and enjoy your role this school year, join me for the LIVE Power Hour Planning Party, where you'll walk away with a year-long curriculum map!Resources Mentioned:Live Workshop: Power Hour Planning Party https://counselorclique.com/planningpartyArticle: "Use the Power of the Calendar"Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode142Mentioned in this episode:Join me for the first-ever Power Hour Planning Party, where we'll use a high school counseling curriculum map to plot out your school year: https://counselorclique.com/planningparty

Whether you're still on summer break or have already kicked off a new school year, there's one thing I think you need during this season: a curriculum map! While it's very common for teachers to use this planning tool, I believe there are so many benefits for high school counselors to use it as well. In today's episode, I'm sharing why you should create a curriculum map and how it sets you up for a successful school year.One of the things I love about a curriculum map is that it helps you visually see the gaps in your program and ways you can meet those gaps to help better serve your counseling program and students. Even though the beginning of the school year is hectic, making this curriculum map at the start of the year allows you to have a vision and direction of where you're headed. It also creates accountability for yourself and breaks down where you're spending your time.I know you have dreams and goals for your high school counseling program this school year. One of the best ways to achieve those dreams and goals is by creating a high school counseling curriculum map. This visual planning tool will be the ultimate game changer for you to have a successful school year. No matter where you are in the school year right now, make some time to create your own high school counseling curriculum map!Resources Mentioned:Free Resource: How to Kick-Start Your Year as a High School Counselor https://counselorclique.com/privatepodLive Workshop: Power Hour Planning Party (Using a High School Counseling Curriculum Map to Plan Your School Year) https://counselorclique.com/planningpartyLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode141Mentioned in this episode:Join me for the first-ever Power Hour Planning Party, where we'll use a high school counseling curriculum map to plot out your school year: https://counselorclique.com/planningparty

You've waited four episodes to listen to the last episode in our grade-level counselor series. A student's senior year is full of ups and downs, celebratory moments, and disappointments, and a senior counselor gets to experience it all with them. My guest on today's episode, Brittany Slagle, experienced all of this and is sharing both what she loves and where she struggles in working with seniors. I've talked on the podcast before about the stress and responsibilities of being a senior counselor. Brittany discusses how she managed the bigger administrative tasks of graduation, scholarship deadlines, and test scores, along with the smaller tasks of her role. She admitted that working with seniors can feel intimidating, but building relationships always outweighs the stressors. When I was a high school counselor, I loved working with seniors, and Brittany feels the exact same way. With this being her first year solely working with seniors, she has learned a lot and has kept notes on what she wants to do differently when she works with them again in three years. I loved her realistic perspective on the stressful, fun, and celebratory moments while working with seniors, and I know you will, too!Resources Mentioned:Resource: Free Scholarship Spreadsheet https://counselorclique.com/scholarshipResource: Credit Check SpreadsheetResource: Senior Bundle Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Brittany:Email: mailto:slageb@btcs.orgInstagram: https://instagram.com/thewhitewoodfarmhouse Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode140Mentioned in this episode:Resource: Back-to-School High School Counseling Bundle - https://counselorclique.com/btsbundle

Being a school counselor allows you to form close relationships with your students and help guide them through their high school years. It's honestly one of the best and most rewarding parts of the job, and no one believes that more than my guest, Leigh Pottle. Leigh is a high school counselor who works with all grade levels, but she is giving her perspective and insight on working with juniors specifically. Leigh acknowledges that when you work with students as upperclassmen, their needs are different, and their plans start to take action. This requires her to emphasize and constantly reiterate to her students that their academics, attendance, behavior, and discipline matter. During their junior year, everything starts to become more real, which is one reason Leigh works so hard at building relationships and is constantly improving her counseling program. Throughout our conversation, Leigh often refers to her juniors as mini-adults. She shares how to balance guiding and supporting them in their future goals while also keeping them accountable and responsible for their own actions. After listening to our conversation, you will see why Leigh loves working with juniors and see her care and concern for them shine through.Resources Mentioned:Resource: Free Scholarship Spreadsheet https://counselorclique.com/scholarshipResource: Data Guide https://counselorclique.com/dataideasResource: ​​First Generation Small GroupLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Leigh:Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lcp0710 Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode139Mentioned in this episode:Resource: Back-to-School High School Counseling Bundle - https://counselorclique.com/btsbundle

We're continuing our series on talking with different high school counselors who work with specific grade levels, and today is all about sophomores! Sophomores hold a special place in my heart because when I first started as a counselor, I worked primarily with sophomores. So, I was excited to sit down with my guest, Hannah Fain, to see how our experiences aligned and how things might have changed over the years. Hannah has a great perspective on working with sophomores and the importance of having conversations and small groups to work on certain social and problem-solving skills, along with making sure they're staying on the right track toward graduation. She emphasizes that having these conversations often and early, along with the help of other staff in the building, keeps the students accountable and builds those relationships for success. Resources Mentioned:Resource: YouScience Career AssessmentsResource: Sophomore Planning BundleResource: Healthy Relationships Classroom LessonResource: Career Bundle 2Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Hannah:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-fain-131494113 Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode138Mentioned in this episode:Resource: Back-to-School High School Counseling Bundle - https://counselorclique.com/btsbundle

When you're a counselor who works solely with ninth graders, your role and challenges can sometimes look different from those of other counselors working with older high school grades. No one knows this better than my guest, Felicia Carter. Working primarily with ninth graders her entire counseling career, she has gained so much knowledge through her experience and is sharing her wisdom with you all. In this episode, Felicia shares how she seamlessly transitions ninth graders into high school, along with what she's learned and let go of along the way.One of the things I loved most from our conversation was Felicia's optimistic perspective and encouraging words for working with ninth graders. She worked hard at fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit before ninth graders even started their first day of school. I gained a new outlook for ninth graders, and I know after listening to this episode, you will, too!Resources Mentioned:Private Podcast: Kick-Start Your Year as a High School Counselor https://counselorclique.com/privatepodResource: Freshman Year Planning BundleResource: Ninth Grade Transition to High School PresentationResource: Freshman Year Planning GuideResource: Soft Skills BundleResource: Back-to-School BundleLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Felicia:Instagram: http://instagram.com/schoolcounselingsmart Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative

Before the new school year officially begins, I'm starting a new series where I'm talking with counselors from different grade levels to gather insight into their roles and the specific struggles or challenges they face with the grade level they serve. Today, I'm kicking off the series with middle school counselor Lauren Tenholder. Lauren shares what high school counselors need to know about incoming ninth-grade students and their transition to high school. When incoming ninth graders enter high school, high school counselors often feel like they have to start from scratch by gathering information on their students. However, Lauren emphasizes using their feeder middle school counselors as a resource. She believes communication and collaboration amongst middle school and high school counselors will make a student's transition to high school smoother and make the ability to take action on serving their social and academic needs easier. Throughout our conversation, Lauren provides a lot of insight into the common struggles eighth graders have about entering high school, the pressure parents can put on their kids when it comes to academics, and the growing number of expectations these students are facing. I loved the perspective Lauren conveyed about a student's transition to high school and what kind of information they're equipped with and still need to know. So, if you're a high school counselor who works directly with ninth-grade students, this episode is for you!Resources Mentioned:Resource: Transition to High School Ninth Grade PresentationResource: Freshman Year Planning Guide​​Resource: Freshman Year Planning BundleLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren Tenholder:Facebook: https://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090560221288&mibextid=ZbWKwL Instagram: https://instagram.com/onecraftycounselor Etsy: https://etsy.com/shop/onecraftycounselor Connect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews: https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store: https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique: https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook:

When you're a new high school counselor, you think you need to have a Pinterest-perfect office in order to be effective. However, your worth as a high school counselor isn't dependent on how much stuff you have in your office or how much financial support you get from your principal, districts, or PTSA. But having a few essentials and office must-haves that you can't live without will certainly make your life easier! This episode highlights a few back-to-school tips and some high school counselor office non-negotiables and “would be nice” things to get your space and program ready for students. While these things worked for me when I was working as a school counselor, everyone's must-have office items will be different and need to work for you. Rest assured, all the things in this episode will just enhance the wonderful things you're already doing as a high school counselor since it's your skills, knowledge, and experience that make you an effective high school counselor!Resources Mentioned:Private Podcast: How to Kick-Start Your Year as a High School Counselor https://counselorclique.com/privatepodResource: School Counselor Beginning of the Year Presentation https://counselorclique.com/beginningResource: Back-to-School High School Counseling BundleBlog: 4 Helpful Categories of Back-to-School Essentials for High School Counselors https://counselorclique.com/back-to-school-essentialsBlog: 3 Ways to Complete Your School Counselor Office Like a Rockstar https://counselorclique.com/school-counselor-officeAmazon Store Front: https://amazon.com/shop/counselorcliqueBack-to-School Blogs and Podcasts: https://counselorclique.com/category/back-to-schoolLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative https://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website:

One of the best ways I grew as a professional and leader was when I was a supervisor to high school counseling interns. Being responsible for teaching, guiding, and preparing future high school counselors was something I knew was important for the future of the field. In today's episode, I'm sharing four key things you should do as a supervisor for your counseling interns.My goal as a supervisor was to get my counseling interns to be able to do this job without me. This is why each of the four things I focus on helps to accomplish that goal. The ideas I'm talking about include teaching interns flexibility, encouraging them to take ownership of their own resources, giving opportunities to fail and learn from mistakes, pushing them out of their comfort zone, and providing honest feedback. I also share examples of how these ideas benefit you as the supervisor.When you sign on to be a supervisor who is invested in raising up the next generation of high school counselors, I hope that you'll find that the experience benefits you as well. This episode will provide you with practical and direct ways to guide and navigate you through this supervisor/intern relationship.Resources Mentioned:Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio Course https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorResource: New High School Counselor Playlist https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorplaylistResource: High School Counseling Planning MEGA BundleLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode134

I'm always looking to find new resources and information that will be helpful tools for high school students. Whether that be career opportunities, college options, or test-taking strategies, I want to get the right resources in YOUR hands to give to your students. So when I came across Dan Heath's podcast, "What It's Like to Be," I knew this modern platform would be the perfect resource to provide high school students and their parents.In each of Dan's episodes, he interviews someone in a unique career to tell a story about their profession. Each guest loves what they're doing, which comes across in the interviews. In this fun career exploration podcast, high school students can listen and learn about new careers that they may not have been exposed to otherwise. I hope Dan's podcast will be just one more resource for career research and career exploration for your high school students. Use it to ignite their curiosity about what jobs are out there. Take this podcast and let students dive into career exploration to find what they want to do in the future!Resources Mentioned:Resource: Counselor Clique's Amazon Storefront https://amazon.com/shop/counselorcliquePodcast: Back to School Tips for High School Counselors: Office Prep https://counselorclique.com/episode32Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Dan:Podcast: What It's Like to BeLinkedInConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode133

As a new school counselor, we're excited and eager to focus on students, enhance the counseling program at our school, and advocate for our role to others in the building. But being the new counselor might mean you're working closely with veteran school counselors, formerly known as guidance counselors, who might not have the same mindset or perspective as you. So what do you do if you're in this situation? In this episode, I'm sharing what to do when working with an old-school guidance counselor as a new school counselor.Now, I'm not saying that every veteran school counselor has an “old-school” mentality because I was eager to step into a school counseling position where my co-workers had years and years of experience and knowledge that I could soak in. However, I've also known the struggle of trying to implement new strategies and techniques into a counseling program with major pushback from my peers. When establishing your role as a new school counselor with a veteran school counselor, it's important to be aware of the three big ideas that could hinder your role. I help define and find solutions to those ideas, explain the characteristics of a guidance counselor, and share the magical answer of what you need to do as a new school counselor when working with an old-school guidance counselor in this episode!Resources Mentioned:Resource: High School Credit Check SpreadsheetResource: Gallup StrengthsFinder 2.0Resource: How to Kickstart Your Year Private Podcast Series https://counselorclique.com/privatepod (this is how you can get on my email list if you haven't already!)Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode132

The end-of-year stress and exhaustion can bring up a lot of emotions for school counselors. And when it's finally summer break, you have the time to stop and reflect on what you want professionally going forward. When a school year wraps, I know many school counselors ask themselves, is it time for me to move on from this? It can be hard to sift through all you're feeling and decide what your next step is. So, in this episode, I'm helping you examine when it's time to move on from high school counseling when managing the weight of burnout. There are many reasons why a school counselor would want to move on from their current position. Before going through them, I share some practical items you need to think through that will help you better understand what your next move is. Then, I discuss multiple scenarios you could find yourself in when thinking it's time to move on. The breakdown of these scenarios will show you what you're lacking in your current position or what you're looking for in the future. However, leaving your current position might not be what you need. Instead, you might find that you want to stay in your role, but certain things need to change. I discuss those items as well to help prepare you for those changes when you return to school in the fall. So, whether you know it's time to move on or are staying with a few changes, I hope this episode provides you with support, guidance, and an understanding of what's going to make you happy in your role as a high school counselor!Resources Mentioned:Podcast: The Lazy Genius- Episode 368: My Playbook for a Lazy Genius SummerResearch Article: School Counselors' Work-Related Rumination as a Predictor of Burnout, Turnover Intentions, Job Satisfaction, and Work Engagement by Mullen, Backer, Chae, and LiLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode131

Everyone wants to feel successful in their job. But sometimes, there are certain aspects in and out of your control that contribute to you feeling hesitant to speak up, questioning your ability, or finding it difficult to create change. This occurs when psychological safety is low in the work culture, which then contributes to doubting yourself. My guest on today's episode, Caroline Crawford, is sharing ways for navigating imposter syndrome and facilitating a positive work culture and how this relates to high school counseling.Work culture is so important that it can truly affect your feeling of safety. Caroline speaks of feeling connected and safe in order to feel motivated in our jobs and how this can be done through your example as a high school counselor. It's understood that there will be days in this role that are tough and hard to deal with, but Caroline shares how to engage in self-care and always look towards the why of your job to help you through.Caroline's message in this episode is one of empowerment and motivation. She believes in facilitating a positive work culture through psychological safety and navigating imposter syndrome in order for you to find success and happiness in your role as a high school counselor, which you will definitely learn from her words and examples in this episode.Resources Mentioned:Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode130

If you've been in the education field long enough, you know that the people you work with, encounter along your journey, and meet on the different paths in your career all shape who you are and your approach to your role. Well, I'm no exception to that philosophy. As a high school counselor, I met many fellow counselors who had an impact on my role as a school counselor and the qualities I tried to embody on a daily basis. In this episode, I reflect on the three educators who inspired me and changed how I approached my high school counseling job. Although I've worked with many high school counselors, three have stood out after many years on the job and beyond. With each person that I name, I also share how and why they impacted my approach to school counseling. Each had different strengths and was successful in their own ways, whether through relationship building, always willing to learn something new, the qualities of a good leader, and so much more. These, along with many others, are reasons why they had an impact on me. Additionally, all three of these women were successful school counselors in different seasons of their lives, which I found encouraging. By sharing the educators who inspired me in my approach to high school counseling jobs, I hope you feel encouraged to take the time to reflect and think through the educators in your life who were mentors and impacted your role as a school counselor.Resources Mentioned:Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode129Mentioned in this episode:Private Practice Workshop Info and Sign Up: https://counselorclique.com/privatepractice

I know when I first started out as a school counselor, I was incredibly nervous and constantly worried about both the small and big things that would happen in this role. And while this feeling was completely normal when first starting out, I quickly realized that worrying didn't do me any good and that I needed to focus on my job and what I knew I could do. So, if this sounds like you, in today's episode, I'm sharing four things to quit worrying about if you're a brand new school counselor.Since I've been in your shoes before, I decided to select the four biggest things that would've made an impact on being a brand new counselor. When I describe and discuss the things to quit worrying about, I also provide insight into why this shouldn't be something that worries you in your new role. Additionally, I share insight and encouragement to trust in your experience, knowledge, and skills to not only overcome these worries but excel in this new role. During this episode, you will get a mixture of pep talk, tough love, encouragement, and finally, some next steps on how I can personally help you ease your continuous list of worries. Starting a brand new job, especially as a school counselor, can make you nervous and overwhelmed. But after listening to this episode, you'll learn four things to quit worrying about that will make your first year as a school counselor a success! Resources Mentioned:Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio Course—use code PODCAST20 for 20% off! https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorResource: New Counselor Playlist http://www.counselorclique.com/newcounselorplaylist Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode128Mentioned in this episode:Private Practice Workshop Info and Sign Up: https://counselorclique.com/privatepractice

Think back to the time you transitioned from middle school to high school. You went from being the oldest in the school to now being the youngest in a new building with a bunch of new opportunities in front of you. Many incoming ninth graders are apprehensive about being in a new school and unsure about the classes they need to take and what to get involved in. So, in today's episode, I'm sharing how to seamlessly transition students from eighth to ninth grade.When you get a new caseload of incoming ninth-grade students, there are simple and easy ways to help make their transition smooth and make them feel welcome. These practical ideas include tours of the high school, creating a panel of students to answer any student-led questions, being available to meet them in person, and creative ways to introduce yourself and answer their questions. Nowadays, there are so many different platforms to send information out, so I encourage you to take advantage of those to better reach more students.Making the transition to high school can be intimidating and overwhelming for incoming ninth-grade students, so making it easier as the school counselor is a simple way to make them feel comfortable and welcome. So, if you're looking for practical ideas to implement to make the transition from eighth to ninth grade smooth, this episode is for you! Resources Mentioned:Resource: Ninth Grade Transition to High School Presentation https://counselorclique.com/ninthgradetransitionResource: Freshman Planning Bundle https://counselorclique.com/freshmanplanningbundle Resource: Senior Bulletin Board https://counselorclique.com/seniorbulletinboard Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio Course https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode127Mentioned in this episode:Private Practice Workshop Info and Sign Up: https://counselorclique.com/privatepractice

I love sharing ideas, tips, and advice about all things related to school counseling. But nothing makes me more excited than the joy, eagerness, and excited demeanor of new high school counselors! They've got all these new ideas they want to implement and are excited to hit the ground running. So, if you're a new high school counselor and thinking, "What do I need to know before the school year begins?" this episode is for you! Learning all the things you'll need to do as a new high school counselor can be overwhelming, so in today's episode, I'm sharing four must-listen podcast episodes for new high school counselors. Each episode discusses a different aspect of school counseling, with a small clip of what you should do or an idea to think about. This podcast allows me to reach so many school counselors and help out those who are new or looking for new ways to run a small group or how to use data. So, if you're a new high school counselor, listen to these four must-listen podcast episodes to get a better idea of what to expect as a school counselor in the fall. Resources Mentioned:Resource: High School Planning Mega BundleResource: School Counselor Beginning of the Year Presentation Resource: Bulletin Board Bundle 2Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio Course https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorFree Resource: New Counselor Playlist https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorplaylistLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode126Mentioned in this episode:Private Practice Workshop Info and Sign Up:...

This is the time of year when you might start looking for new opportunities in the form of a new counseling job. Whether you're a student who just graduated college, a parent coming back into the workforce after staying home with your children, or just looking for a new place to help students, this episode is for you! I have my friend, Rachel Davis, on today, and we're sharing our best school counseling interview advice in hopes of giving you encouragement and tips as you enter the job search scene.When interviewing for school counseling positions, there's a lot that goes into it. Rachel and I are breaking down the different components of interviews, such as resumes, second interviews, how to respond to different scenarios, and marketing yourself to be the best for the position. Along with sharing how we'd handle different scenarios, we're also giving general advice on how to make the biggest impact during your interview.Being on both sides of the interview process, Rachel and I have an open and honest conversation about our dos and don'ts as you look for a new job. No matter what your current situation is, we're sharing our best school counseling interview advice to get you your dream counseling job! Resources Mentioned:Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio Course https://counselorclique.com/newcounselorFree PDF Download: Sample School Counseling Interview Questions from ASCALeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode125Mentioned in this episode:Private Practice Workshop Info and Sign Up: https://counselorclique.com/privatepractice

Even though for some of you, summer might feel so far away, in reality, it's just around the corner. I know I was always ready to leave and start relaxing, but there are certain things that need to get done before heading out the door. I want you to feel confident and know that you have everything wrapped up from the year and are ready to start a new school year when you return. So, in today's episode, I'm sharing three major end-of-year items to help you close out your year.There are a million things on your mind when it comes to wrapping up the year, but if you focus on student items, office items, and personal items, you will cover everything you need. With each of these end-of-year items, I provide you with a list and examples of ways to wrap things up. These items include credit recovery, transcripts, decluttering and getting rid of unnecessary paperwork, data, planning out your summer hours, certification hours, and more. I also share resources that would be helpful in closing out these three areas.In order to truly close out the school year, it's important to think through all the end-of-year items. I ask you to think about and reflect on the systems you have in place, how you're keeping it all organized, and ways to communicate with students and parents. So, if you're ready to close out for the summer, this episode is here to help you feel successful and organized! Resources Mentioned:Freebie: Podcast Playlist for New High School CounselorsShop All: Bulletin Board ResourcesFreebie: Data Ideas Collection GuideResource: Digital Activities Mega BundleResource: Junior Year Planning GuideShop All Counselor Clique ResourcesPodcast: Episode 21- How to Close Out the Year as a High School CounselorPodcast: Episode 123- End of Year Data: What to Gather and Who to Tell About ItLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job InterviewsVisit my TpT storeSend me a DM on Instagram: @counselorcliqueFollow me on FacebookSend me an email: lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique...

Sometimes, the things we have to do as high school counselors aren't glamorous, exciting, or thrilling. However, that doesn't mean they're not important or essential for running our counseling programs. One of those things is analyzing data. It's likely that you've collected data throughout the school year, but as the end of the year approaches, you're probably thinking, what do I do with this? In today's episode, I'm sharing how analyzing your end-of-the-year data shows the impact you made this year. I've said this many times before, but I'll say it again because I truly believe it; one way to measure our effectiveness as a high school counselor is by this phrase: are students different because of what I'm doing here? It's such a powerful phrase, and the best way to visually see our impact is through data. Trust me, I understand that numbers and evaluation of your program can be intimidating, which is why I've come up with ideas on places you can start to pull your end-of-the-year data and present it in ways that will benefit your program. Taking the time to analyze your end-of-the-year data not only shows you how to make your counseling program better with more ways to help students, but it also reminds you of the impact you've made this school year. Whether you're looking at your goals from the year, groups you've implemented, or whatever personal dreams you have for your program, data shows you the answers you need to keep going or make some changes. So be sure to add end-of-the-year data to your to-do list before summer so you can make the appropriate changes to your program for next year! Resources Mentioned:Free Podcast Playlist: New Counselor PlaylistFreebie: Data Collection Ideas GuideBlog: 4 Valuable Places to Share Your Compelling School Counseling DataBlog: Advance Your High School Counseling Program with Social Media: 4 Best PracticesBlog: 3 Unassuming Ways to Incorporate Perception Data Into Your High School Counseling ProgramLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job InterviewsVisit my TpT storeSend me a DM on Instagram: @counselorcliqueFollow me on FacebookSend me an email: lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique CollaborativeFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode123

I'm shocked to say it, but today's topic is a first for the podcast! It's not something that we're immersed in our day-to-day routine, but it's so important in supporting student needs that, as high school counselors, we should be knowledgeable about it. That's right, I'm talking about IEPs and 504s. Since I'm not an expert in this subject, I wanted to bring on a guest who has decades of experience and can help provide us with the information we need when attending IEP and 504 meetings. Today's guest, Catherine Whitcher, has a passion for solving special education struggles. She has earned multiple Special Education teaching certifications but left the classroom life behind to become a collaborative resource for parents and teachers at the IEP table. Catherine's an expert on the subject and is ready to share her advice and tips with us today.In today's episode, Catherine is sharing some IEP and 504 meeting strategies and the role of a high school counselor during these meetings. With her experience, she provides helpful advice on how to be an advocate for the child, ways to build relationships with the students and their families, and how to be a “solution finder” instead of adding to the problem. Throughout our conversation, you will hear Catherine's energy and passion come to light and take away productive and effective ways to be part of an IEP or 504 meeting in the future. Resources Mentioned:Free Podcast Playlist: Classroom Lessons PlaylistLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job InterviewsVisit my TpT storeSend me a DM on Instagram: @counselorcliqueFollow me on FacebookSend me an email: lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique CollaborativeFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode122

I've said it before, but this time of year is one of the most stressful with graduation, wrapping up the school year, and so many other things that consume your school day. That's why I wanted to take a moment and reflect on your year and, more importantly, the success you've had throughout the school year. To help celebrate, seven other high school counselors are sharing their counselor wins with our community. As each high school counselor shared their counselor wins, I was amazed by the number of wonderful things happening in counseling programs. After listening to each counselor, they all hit on the different aspects of high school counseling, such as data, interns, students, advocating for your role, and new programs or groups. We do so much as high school counselors that we often don't realize or take the time to reflect on the positive and successful things happening in our program or with our students. By having other high school counselors share their counselor wins, I hope you, too, will hear something that sparks an idea that would be celebratory in your program. Resources Mentioned:Resource: High School Counseling Data Collection Ideas GuideResource: Leadership High School Counseling Small GroupPodcast: Episode 101, Navigating Adult Friendships in The Workplace with Blake BlankenbeclerLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job InterviewsVisit my TpT storeSend me a DM on Instagram: @counselorcliqueFollow me on FacebookSend me an email: lauren@counselorclique.comJoin The Clique CollaborativeFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode121