“It’s just many little fires:” Challenges school counselors face and observe in different contexts

• In Event: Preparing and Supporting School Counselors to Meet Equity Challenges

Abstract

Summary

School counselors have a very important, albeit difficult, role. They are charged with creating educational opportunities for students, addressing the complex needs of young people, and closing academic gaps (Young & Bryan, 2015). Their work can help increase graduation rates, dismantle social injustices, prepare students for college and careers, and promote better social emotional functioning among learners (Young et al., 2013). However, many school counselors are not given the resources they need to thrive (Kim & Lambie, 2018). The demands placed on them are great, leaving many school counselors feeling overburdened (McCarthy & Lambert, 2008). This study aims to examine the difficulties school counselors are facing in their roles. Using data from focus groups with practitioners in urban, rural, and suburban contexts, we analyze school counselors’ perceptions of the role, unique challenges, and concerns about students.
Given the nature of their position, school counselors have a variety of tasks to complete for many stakeholders. They collaborate with students, teachers, administrators, and parents in their efforts to ensure schools are healthy, functioning spaces where all individuals can thrive (Kim et al., 2018; Young et al., 2013). Consequently, the role of school counselor is extremely taxing, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic (Litam et al., 2021). In addition to their usual responsibilities, school counselors have the added challenge of addressing the increasingly complex mental health demands of young people (Litam et al., 2021). Without better understanding the perception of school counselors, and how to make their roles less overwhelming, there is growing concern about their tenure within the profession. High levels of burnout are associated with increased likelihood of turnover (Maslach et al., 2001). To the extent that issues like insufficient recognition, role confusion, high ratios and inadequate support remain unresolved, schools may find it increasingly difficult to fill these vital positions.
This study is a thematic analysis of data from school counselors in three districts across the country. School counselors were asked about the challenges they face in their current roles and the behavioral health concerns they observe among students. Transcripts were then analyzed by members of the research team and themes were identified.
School counselors identified several behavioral health challenges impacting students in their districts. Young people, especially girls, are having a hard time building healthy relationships with their peers. They struggle with self-regulation and conflict resolution, as well as managing emotions. Participants also explained that students are apathetic about completing their assignments and experiencing high levels of anxiety. In the suburban setting, especially, school counselors reported that substance use was a notable concern.
This study provides unique insight into the challenges school counselors face today, and how these concerns may differ depending on urbanicity. By understanding the difficulties school counselors face, researchers and policymakers can identify ways to address these issues. With looming budget cuts, growing confusion over the role of school counselors, and increasing student mental health needs, it will be important that schools support their counselors. Student, teacher, and school wellbeing depend on the success of the counselors.

Authors

• Anita A. Young, Johns Hopkins University

• Jodi L. Miller, Johns Hopkins University

• Norma Day-Vines, Johns Hopkins University

• Yiying Xiong, Johns Hopkins University

• Lieny Jeon, University of Virginia

• Juliet Ray, Johns Hopkins University