Licensed School Counselor – Larrie Hermans

Larrie Hermans is a professional student counselor with 20 years of rich experience in helping high school students pick the best classes for them. The four main school counseling program interventions used include: school counseling core curriculum classroom lessons and annual academic, career/college readiness, and personal/social planning for every student; and group and individual counseling for some students. It is the job of the counselor to assess the student’s ability by talking to him and then suggesting the most appropriate paths and career alternatives.

Since school counselors spend most of their time in direct service to and in contact with students, it is important that anyone who wants to do this job has a good rapport with the students. The following are some qualities that Larrie Hermans recommends for anyone who want to be a great counselor.

Fantastic Communication Skills – This is perhaps one of the most important characteristics of a proficient counselor. You must be able to pick up on verbal and non-verbal cues when in direct conversation with students. This will ensure that you can guide them in the best possible manner.

Education – As with any other profession, a this job also requires at least a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling. Degrees in other related fields will also be acceptable. Generally speaking, a masters increases your chances of being employed at a good institution and also for getting a higher salary.

Training – You will need full classroom training followed by an internship or mentorship.

High Professional Ethics & Standards – Considering that a person in a position like this who will be in constant contact with students, sometimes even acting as a friend, it is important that you draw clear boundaries between yourself and the student. Larrie Hermans says that this is one of the most undermined aspects of this job. It is very easy for any student to develop feelings towards the counselor but it is important to always be on guard and not blur this boundary.

Understanding & Compassionate – Last but not least, you need to be trustworthy and reliable so that the students can look to you for guidance and assistance.