A Word (or 500) to the Newbie

The other day I got a lovely message from a reader (I just love saying that---thanks, Rebecca!) who is a new school counselor.  She wanted to know if I had any special advice for someone who's just starting out.

I've been doing this job for over 20 years yet still feel like I know nothing.  However, I gave it the old college try:

When you're new, much depends on what you're legally required to do, whether the position is new or if expectations are already in place, and what kind of administrator you have (laissez-faire or micro-manager).

Do you have to provide direct services for kids on IEPs or 504s?  Many counselors don't---it's against ASCA recommendations--- but it's a HUGE part of my job; this past year I had 43 kids I was legally required to see weekly for the entire year.  

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