SCIT’s overall demeanor towards actively participating in school counseling expectations are to engage in supervision, professional development, and collaboration with stakeholders. Why? This is how continuous improvement as a school counselor is achieved. Ongoing professional development and reflective practice are also keys to continuous improvement as a school counselor.

My journey as a school counselor in training has led to regularly reflecting on my counseling skills and ways to improve through feedback from supervisors. My specific artifact dated February 15 to April 24, 2024 (Formative Evaluation – Midpoint of Course) revealed some areas for growth in challenge, goal setting, counselor identity/ethics, and group counseling/group work.

My area of growth in challenge (gentle without shaming) led to ongoing professional development with my peers where I learned how to identify mixed or incongruent messages expressed verbally and nonverbally. I have learned cues and behaviors that are key indicators. I have also mastered reporting to the necessary authorities in an attempt to eliminate or minimize any suspected danger to my students.

Goal setting is another area that was identified as emerging expectations. Collaborative goals with refraining from advice-giving have been an intentional growth area. Group counseling and group work are often intertwined with mutually derived goals that identify behaviors that may occur. My ability to explore with the group members and their beliefs as an advocate for systemic change has improved greatly. I have learned to practice ethical guidelines in the sense of listening more for clarity and speaking only when necessary. Finally, I have learned that ongoing reflection is necessary to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the progression of my development and competency.

Professional and Ethical Standards:
ASCA Standard: B-SS5. Consult to support student achievement and success.
ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors: B.3. Responsibilities to self.
CACREP Standard: G.2.4. School counselor roles in school leadership and multidisciplinary teams.

In retrospect, I have found the importance of conferring with my peers and its impact on my growth, student achievement, and success. A supportive environment fosters growth for all involved, inclusive of maintaining professional competence and personal betterment. I have learned through collaboration how to effectively support students and that my role as a future school counselor is to support my leadership and multidisciplinary team with the utmost integrity. Conclusively, I will be an active participant in leadership roles and work collaboratively with other professionals to enhance student outcomes.

Artifact Access Link https://manage.wix.com/dashboard/5bfe4f3e-6354-4c47-b92a-e25824fda154/wix-portfolio/project/37ab83ee-9467-49ee-bbaa-b12d203b07e7?withPayload=true&dataCapsuleId=1737841381677