#IRLSchoolCounseling: An Introduction to the Profession equips students with foundational school counseling knowledge using an engaging, real-world approach. Chapters-predicated around a social media post created by a real-life school counselor-walk readers through personal reflection, consultation with practicing school counselors, and information synthesis to highlight the role and responsibilities of school counselors and the varied experiences practitioners navigate as they implement a comprehensive school counseling program.
The book begins with an introductory chapter focused on school counseling within the context of the larger educational system. The book then introduces the history of the profession before moving into a practical approach that outlines key components of a comprehensive school counseling program. Chapters are organized according to the four elements of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model: Define, Manage, Deliver, and Assess.
The text highlights the perspectives of diverse school counselors who serve as consultants for chapter content. Each chapter provides readers with opportunities for reflection to support deeper understanding and application of the foundational content. The #EduCounselor Synthesis section in each chapter honors school counselors' identities as both counselors and educators and situates the real-world experiences of school counselors within the context of their ideal roles in the schools.
#IRLSchoolCounseling is an exemplary resource for foundational courses and programs in school counseling.
Christine J. Schimmel (Ed.D., Marshall University) is associate professor in the School of Counseling and Well Being at West Virginia University.
Sarah I. Springer (Ph.D., Montclair State University) is associate professor in the Department of Professional Counseling at Monmouth University.
Kathleen L. Grant (Ph.D., Montclair State University) is assistant professor in the Department of Counselor Education at The College of New Jersey.
Kara Ieva (Ph.D., University of Central Florida) is professor in the Counseling in Educational Settings program at Rowan University.