Long time no see! I know it has been a long time since I have written anything. Things have been very hectic, to say the least. There were days where I was questioning what I was doing and whether school counseling was the right career for me. I was stressed out nonstop, all day every day. I would go home and forget all about my job and just honestly wanted nothing to do with school counseling. I didn't even want to look at anything on Pinterest related to school counseling or read my favorite school counseling blogs (a big deal for me). Things have settled down and I have found my footing again. Anyone who lives in, or works in North Carolina, knows about all of the legal happenings surrounding education. I won't get in to all of that, nor voice my political opinions, but suffice to say, it's not a great time to be an educator in this state. Needless to say, I wasn't taking care of myself.
On a happier note, I have finally been able to start my small groups, and I have been filling my day with counseling appointments, to help remind me why I'm doing what I'm doing. It worked! I'm back and enjoying school counseling once again! Soon I will be posting more about what I'm doing differently in individual and small group counseling, as well as a big change in my classroom counseling schedule! Thanks for understanding and for continuing to read my ideas (and those stolen from others and shared with you!).
Hi Traci,
ReplyDeleteI stumbled upon your blog, as I am considering a career in school counseling. Could you give me any advice on how to know if this is the right career for me? I know you mentioned there were days when you questioned if it was the right career for you. What specifically made you fall in love with the profession, and how did you know it was the right fit for you?
Thanks!
Ashley
Hi Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy to hear that you are considering the school counseling profession. It is definitely challenging at times, but can be very rewarding and fun! I first learned about school counseling when I was in college, thinking of pursuing a career in teaching. I was fortunate enough to take a "internship" type class where we learned about different helping professions and got to do a short "internship" in one (it was more observing). I decided to go and visit an elementary School Counselor. I really liked the way that the Counselor is able to connect with students one on one and in small groups, as well as in large classrooms. I would definitely recommend getting out into the schools to observe if possible and talk with a School Counselor so that you can learn more about the day-to-day life. Good luck in your endeavors!