Fall Advisory Committee Flashcard

Front

Do school counselors provide therapy and long-term mental health treatments?

Back

False

Answer explanation

The school counselor role is focused on short-term, goal-oriented counseling, crisis intervention, and connecting students and families with the appropriate resources. While they are trained to recognize mental health needs and provide support, they are not a substitute for a clinical therapist for ongoing mental health treatment. 

Front

In Arkansas, what level of schooling is required for school counselors to be eligible for hire?

Back

Master's Degree

Front

What are the three domains of school counseling?

Back

Academic, Career, and Social/Emotional

Front

What national organization sets the model and standards for school counseling programs?

Back

ASCA

Answer explanation

• American School Counselor Association: A professional organization that provides resources, professional development, and advocacy for school counselors to help students with their academic, career, and social/emotional development.

Front

School counselors support all students, not just those in crisis.

Back

True

Front

What is the recommended student-counselor ratio, according to ASCA?

Back

250 to 1

Answer explanation

The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) recommends a student-to-counselor ratio of 250:1. However, the national average ratio is significantly higher, at 376:1 (according to date from the 2023-2024 school year). Achieving the recommended ratio is associated with positive student outcomes, such as improved test scores, higher graduation rates, and more college-bound students. 

Front

How often should students see a counselor?

Back

As Needed

Front

All students are privy to confidentiality within the counseling setting, no matter what.

Back

False

Answer explanation

Student conversations with school counselors are generally confidential, but there are specific, legally mandated exceptions where confidentiality must be broken to ensure safety and adhere to legal requirements. Counselors explain these limits to students in developmentally appropriate terms from the beginning of the counseling relationship. 

Front

What does the acronym "SEL" stand for?

Back

Social Emotional Learning

Front

Are school counselors responsible for discipline and assigning consequences?

Back

False

Answer explanation

School counselors act as neutral consultants and collaborators with school staff to help develop and implement programs that promote positive behavior and manage problem behaviors.