Menu Sidebar
Menu

Top 50 School Counselor Blogs

Feedspot recently did an analysis of all blogs focused on the Counselor market. They looked at content, traffic, quality of posts, frequency of posts, etc. We are happy to share that LINK for Counselors blog was chosen as one of the top blogs (in fact we came in at #3 and the top one focused specifically on High School Counselors).

There are some other great blogs you might enjoy here as well. Here is the link to the list: https://bloggers.feedspot.com/school_counselor_blogs/?feedid=4779041&_src=f1_featured_email

Talking About Gap Years

As high school graduation approaches, many students face the daunting task of deciding their next steps. For some, the traditional path of immediately enrolling in college may not feel like the right fit. In recent years, taking a gap year has gained popularity as a way for students to explore their interests, gain valuable experiences, and mature before diving into higher education.

A gap year, typically taken between high school and college, offers a unique opportunity for students to step off the academic treadmill and engage in meaningful activities that contribute to personal and professional growth. Here are some key considerations and benefits of taking a gap year:

Personal Growth – During a gap year, students have the chance to discover more about themselves, their passions, and their values. Whether traveling, volunteering, interning, or working, these experiences can lead to increased self-awareness and confidence.

Skill Development – Gap year experiences often involve hands-on learning and skill-building opportunities that may not be available in a traditional classroom setting. From learning a new language to gaining practical work skills, students can develop a diverse range of competencies.

Cultural Exploration – Traveling or living in different regions or countries exposes students to diverse cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. This exposure fosters cultural competency, empathy, and a broader understanding of the world.

Clarifying Goals – For students unsure about their college major or career path, a gap year can provide clarity and direction. It allows time for reflection, exploration of interests, and conversations with mentors or professionals in various fields.

Building Resilience – Navigating new environments, challenges, and responsibilities during a gap year cultivates resilience and adaptability, essential skills for success in college and beyond.

Counselors play a crucial role in guiding students through the gap year decision-making process. By discussing the potential benefits, exploring various gap year program options, and helping students create a plan that aligns with their goals, counselors can support students in making informed choices about their educational journey.

Ultimately, a gap year can be a transformative experience that enhances a student’s readiness for college, enriches their perspective, and sets the stage for future success. It’s not a detour from education but rather a purposeful pathway to growth and discovery.

Teege Mettille is the founder of Leading Colleges. He brings over two decades of experience in enrollment management, higher education leadership, and consulting. Having held roles ranging from admissions counselor to vice president of enrollment, He combines hands-on expertise with a forward-thinking approach. His work with institutions of all sizes, coupled with a passion for ethical recruiting and social justice, ensures that every solution is tailored to meet the unique needs of your campus. Check out his other blog posts here: https://leadingcolleges.org/insights/

3 Essential College Decision Handouts for Seniors – Free Handouts Available for Download

College decision season brings a mix of emotions. Some students are celebrating acceptance, while others may be facing disappointment. Help your seniors move forward with our College Decision Handouts. These resources outline important paperwork and deadlines for accepted students and provide practical steps for those exploring alternative options.

Here are links to the 3 free handouts available from Going Merry:

Got into College: What to do Next? – https://goingmerry.com/counselor-resource-accepted-to-college-handout/?utm_source=sendgrid&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=unreg-counselor-mar-27

Rejected from their Top-Choice College – https://goingmerry.com/counselor-resource-rejected-from-top-college-handout/?utm_source=sendgrid&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=unreg-counselor-mar-27

Not Accepted to Any Colleges – https://goingmerry.com/counselor-resource-no-college-acceptances-handout/?utm_source=sendgrid&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=unreg-counselors-mar-27

Lime Connect Pathways Scholarship for High School Seniors

Designed for current high school seniors with disabilities who are pursuing a degree at a four-year university or college in either the U.S. or Canada. Apply by April 15th!

Lime Connect believes strongly in the potential of high school students who have all types of disabilities and is committed to supporting their future. In 2019, we were pleased to launch our inaugural Pathways Scholarship designed for current high school seniors who are pursuing a degree at a four-year university or college in either the U.S. or Canada. We have impacted 45 promising students through this award and we have increased our giving each year.

Multiple students are selected for this award each year and these awards are merit-based, however, financial needs will be taken into consideration.

Click here to create an account and start your application

Eligibility Requirements:

2025 Scholarship Applicants must match the following criteria:

  • Have, or consider themselves to have a visible or invisible disability*
  • Current high school senior in the U.S. or Canada graduating in the Spring or Summer of 2025
  • Accepted to, or applied and awaiting acceptance to, a 4-year university or college in the U.S. or Canada for the 2025-2026 academic year
  • Intending to be enrolled full-time in that 4-year university or college in Fall 2025

* An individual with a disability is defined as someone who has or considers themselves to have, a long-term, or recurring, issue that impacts one or more major activities that others may consider to be a daily function); this definition also includes the perception among others that a disability exists. We know that 90% of disabilities on campus are invisible, and candidates with all disabilities are encouraged to apply.

How to apply:

2025 applications are open! Apply by April 15th!

  1. Join, or log into The Lime Network.
  2. Once logged in, visit the “Jobs and Programs” page and locate the Pathways Scholarship listing within the highlighted opportunities –
  3. There, you’ll find the link to our online application system where you will provide:
    1. General Background Information ( e.g., contact information, and details about your intended college/university)
    2. Resume/CV
    3. Answer one essay question related to living successfully with a disability

Note: The first round of the application does not require a letter of recommendation. You will only be prompted to submit reference information if you are selected as a Finalist.

The Application Timeline:

– 2025 Finalists will be selected from overall applications, and all applicants will be notified of their status in mid-April.

– 2025 Finalists (only) will then submit one letter of reference from a teacher, advisor, supervisor, youth leader, etc. in April.

– Selected Scholars will provide verification of university or college acceptance prior to receiving the award.

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT YOUR LIME NETWORK PROFILE:
You will be asked to select your “current institution.” You may select your intended university/college, or you may select “no current institution” if you are not certain of which one you will attend. You may log back in at any time to update your profile.

Are your high school seniors ready to go away to college?

It’s an exciting time for your college-bound high school seniors as going to college, once a distant idea, comes into focus.

They may have received acceptance letters (or, more likely, emails these days) back in December if they applied for early decision, but most are receiving those communications right now. They may even be receiving multiple acceptances with competing financial aid packages.

They are also learning where their best friends are going to school and that they’ll be separated. And some are receiving the disappointing news that they’re being wait-listed at their dream school or, “After carefully considering your application, we regret to inform you…”

Teens and their parents may have a tough time managing all of the “feels” that come with this tumultuous time. Watching how your students deal with the ups and downs, and thinking back on how they’ve negotiated their junior and senior years of high school, may offer some clues as to whether going away to college is a good idea right now.

If a child is already experiencing anxiety or depression, there’s a greater chance for a significant mental health issue to emerge during freshman year. A study reported by the National Education Association said that 44 percent of college students surveyed reported symptoms of depression; 37 percent said they experienced anxiety; and 15 percent said they were considering suicide.

Some of the challenges in college that bring about mental health issues include:

●        Increased academic pressure

●        Social stressors

●        Problems with time management

●        Difficulties in the living environment

●        Inability to self-manage medications for depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc.

●        Greater exposure to harmful substances, such as today’s more potent cannabis

I’ve had a number of families consult with me after their child returned for Thanksgiving or after their first semester showing signs of emotional and mental instability, such as not wanting to get out of bed, not wanting to see their friends or even not returning to school at all.

So, before packing up the car and dropping a child off in August, parents and counselors should assess behaviors they have observed. Here are some clues that a gap year, community college or volunteer work may need to be part of the considerations:

How independently have they managed their school work? Do they need to be reminded of projects and assignments that are due and asking if they’ve completed their homework?

Do their extracurriculars, social activities and friendships interfere with the need to sleep and eat? Do they miss classes or appointments because of time management?

Are they insightful about their own strengths and weaknesses? If they are honest about their weaknesses (such as being organizationally challenged), what supports can they call on to help them?

Are they resourceful and can they advocate for themselves if they recognize they’re having emotional or social problems?

Are they being realistic about what colleges will likely accept them and mature enough to accept the limitations you impose on tuition, fees, student loans and travel? Can they tell you why they selected specific colleges, and beware of answers like, “It’s the farthest away from home” or “The weather is warmer.”

Did they fill out their college applications on their own, including writing essays unassisted by AI, and meet the specified deadlines?

Are they looking at college as an educational opportunity or merely a social opportunity?

Have they been treated in the past, or are they being treated now, for anxiety or depression? Can they manage their medications independently? And how far away are you willing to let them go in case of a crisis? Will you be within driving distance, or will they have to get on a plane?

If they’re over 18, are they willing to sign a HIPAA agreement allowing you access to their medical records and to speak with their health-care providers? Will the school contact the parent if they suddenly stop going to class?

Parents should have them sign a young adult power of attorney (known as a Mama Bear contract) should they experience a medical or mental health crisis? If you’re worried about your student’s mental or physical issues impacting their ability to successfully matriculate, parents can purchase a tuition insurance policy that can help refund tuition, room and board, and other fees if a student needs to withdraw due to a covered medical reason.

A time of life that, for many, is full of excitement can be full of disappointment and anxiety for some teens. Support them in this journey and remind them that college isn’t their final educational experience – it’s just their current educational experience – and they will eventually find their path.

Bonnie Lane, M.S., is principal consultant with Family Support Services in Northbrook, Illinois, specializing in supporting families whose loved ones suffer from severe mental illness or substance addiction. Contact her at 847-651-1554 or bonnielane@thefamilysupportservices.com.

Counselor Survey Findings: Challenges that Impact Student Success

Today, YouScience, released a new industry report based on survey data of 300+ counselors that reveals significant challenges, including: growing caseloads, rising mental health demands, and administrative burdens that limit counselors’ ability to provide personalized guidance. 

Key Findings:

Time Scarcity:

  • 89% of middle school and 86% of high school counselors surveyed struggle to provide personalized student guidance, but understand the importance of doing so 
  • 91% expressed the desire for an aptitude assessment to provide essential personalized support 

Heavy Caseloads: 

  • +56% of counselors manage caseloads of 300-400 students – well above ASCA’s recommended ratio of 250:1

Mental Health Demands

  • 73% share that mental health support is a major part of their job, but feel underprepared to handle the growing complexity of student mental health needs

Administrative Burdens:

  • 54% noted that compliance-related administrative tasks consume a significant portion of their workday, taking time away from direct student interaction

The findings underscore the urgent need for better tools and resources to help counselors support students more effectively. 

Link to the complete survey results: https://tracking.us.nylas.com/l/7835d31a6a6241f79fe71b4b6c8dd8d4/0/945c8007d8efa7c95253ffeba7d8fb3f37956e7d6646c70d053f57bd6e31058e?cache_buster=1742307269

Have Your Students Considered Attending a College/University that isn’t Close to Home?

There are many reasons to encourage your students to attend college near their home. Here are three reasons to consider schools farther than half a day’s drive from their house:

1. It could be easier to get in! College admissions counselors are responsible for building a diverse freshman class. This means that they want kids from all 50 states. So, if you are from Pennsylvania, all things being equal, you are more likely to be accepted at a college in Minnesota than close to home because fewer students from Pennsylvania apply to colleges in Minnesota.

2. Being farther away from home will give your students a broader world view because they will meet people from other places, with backgrounds and points of reference that differ from their own. They will have new experiences and graduate from college with new interests, an expanded comfort zone, a greater tolerance for the differences in people, and perhaps a better and stronger appreciation of home.

3. It is in your student’s best interest if you send this message to them: You trust them to be on their own, you value and respect their independence, and you believe that they are capable of making their own decisions and managing their own life.

Michelle McAnaney founded The College Spy® with this mission: Help students identify colleges that are a good fit for them and get accepted.

Michelle is an expert in college admissions and a leader in her field. She has over 20 years of experience as an educator, counselor and consultant, assisting students in making smart choices to reach their full potential. She is current on the latest trends in college admissions. Check her site out here: https://thecollegespy.com/

Empowering Students Through Career Exploration

Navigating the vast landscape of career possibilities can be overwhelming for high school students. As counselors, we play a crucial role in guiding and supporting students on their journey of career exploration and decision-making. Here are some effective strategies and resources to foster career exploration and guidance among high school students:

Career Assessments: Start by introducing students to career assessment tools. These tools can help them identify their interests, strengths, and personality traits, providing valuable insights into potential career paths.

Workshops and Seminars: Organize workshops and seminars focused on different career fields, industry trends, and skill requirements. Invite guest speakers, alumni, or professionals to share their career experiences and insights with students.

Job Shadowing and Internships: Facilitate opportunities for students to engage in job shadowing or internships in their areas of interest. These hands-on experiences allow students to gain practical insights, develop skills, and make informed career decisions.

Online Resources: Utilize online platforms and resources dedicated to career exploration. Encourage students to explore diverse career options, research industries, and discover potential career paths independently.

One-on-One Counseling: Offer personalized career counseling sessions to discuss students’ career goals, aspirations, and concerns. Help them create action plans, explore educational pathways, and navigate the college or vocational application process.

STEM and STEAM Initiatives: Promote participation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) and STEAM (including arts) programs, clubs, or competitions. Highlight the growing demand for careers in these fields and the opportunities available.

Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses, industries, and community organizations to create career-focused initiatives and mentorship programs. Connect students with professionals to gain industry insights and networking opportunities.

Career Exploration Courses: Advocate for the inclusion of career exploration courses or electives in the school curriculum. These courses can provide in-depth knowledge about different industries, career pathways, and essential workplace skills.

Networking and Professional Development: Encourage students to build professional networks, attend career-related events, and seek mentorship opportunities. Emphasize the importance of continuous learning and skill development.

Ongoing Support: Follow up with students regularly to assess their career interests, goals, and progress. Provide ongoing support, guidance, and resources to help students navigate career transitions and achieve their professional aspirations.

By implementing these strategies and fostering a culture of career exploration and guidance, school counselors can empower high school students to make informed career decisions, explore diverse pathways, and pursue rewarding careers aligned with their interests and aspirations.

Teege Mettille is the founder of Leading Colleges. He brings over two decades of experience in enrollment management, higher education leadership, and consulting. Having held roles ranging from admissions counselor to vice president of enrollment, He combines hands-on expertise with a forward-thinking approach. His work with institutions of all sizes, coupled with a passion for ethical recruiting and social justice, ensures that every solution is tailored to meet the unique needs of your campus. Check out his other blog posts here: https://leadingcolleges.org/insights/

Ready, Set, Visit: Making the Most of Campus Visits

Embarking on the college admissions journey is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming for both students and parents. One of the best ways to get a clearer sense of where a student might feel at home is through campus visits. However, these visits can be much more than just a chance to stroll around a picturesque campus or check out the athletic facilities. To make the most of a campus visit, students should come prepared and know exactly what to look for, from the “social fit” to the “academic fit” and even the “financial fit.” Here’s how you can make each campus visit count.

Research Before You Go

The key to a successful campus visit is preparation. Before you set foot on campus, take time to do some preliminary research. Start by reviewing the school’s website, reading student reviews, and looking at virtual tours if available. Understand the school’s academic offerings, campus culture, and any other factors that matter to you, such as extracurricular activities, clubs, or study abroad programs.

When you arrive on campus, you’ll want to dive deeper into specific questions or concerns that may have come up during your research. Remember, the visit is your chance to get an inside look at a campus that a website or brochure just can’t offer.

Comparing Schools: Social Fit

When comparing schools, one of the most important but often overlooked factors is the “social fit.” This is the environment where your student will spend a majority of their time outside of class. The key question to ask: Will your student feel comfortable here?

Social fit involves the campus culture, student body diversity, and the kinds of social activities available. Does the school have a vibrant social scene with plenty of clubs, events, and student organizations? Or is it more low-key and focused on academics? Pay attention to the students you see around campus. Are they engaging with each other? Are there students involved in different activities that resonate with your student’s interests?

Try to visit the campus when students are actively engaged, whether it’s during a club fair, sporting event, or weekend hangout. You’ll get a real feel for the school’s vibe. It’s also a good idea to meet with current students and ask about their experiences, what they do for fun, and what it’s like living on campus.

Academic Fit: Will They Thrive Here?

Academic fit is another critical factor in evaluating a school. Start by understanding the academic rigor and available programs. Does the school offer strong programs in the student’s field of interest? Are the class sizes small or large? How easy is it to engage with professors? These are key questions to explore during your visit. I always talk with my families about being “challenged,” but not being “overwhelmed.”

Attend an information session, tour academic buildings, and if possible, sit in on a class. Talk to academic advisors and professors about the course structure, research opportunities, and internships. Ask how the college supports students in their academic endeavors—whether through tutoring, peer mentoring, or career services. A school may have a beautiful campus and great social life, but if the academics don’t align with your student’s goals, it’s not the right fit.

Financial Fit: Understanding the Investment

College is obviously a significant financial investment, and understanding the financial fit is just as important as the social and academic aspects. Before visiting, review the school’s cost of attendance and research available scholarships, financial aid, and work-study opportunities. Check out each school’s Net Price Calculator to get a sense of whether or not your family will receive any need-based aid or merit-aid.

During your visit, schedule time to meet with the financial aid office to get a clear understanding of the options available for your family. Ask about the average financial aid package, the types of grants and loans offered, and whether the school meets full demonstrated financial need. It’s also wise to look at the campus amenities and assess whether the costs align with the experience offered.

Conclusion

A college visit is a powerful tool in the decision-making process. By conducting research beforehand, asking the right questions, and paying attention to the key factors that affect both the student and the family, you’ll be better equipped to compare and contrast schools. The goal is to find the perfect balance between academic rigor, social engagement, and financial feasibility. With the right preparation, your family will feel confident in making one of the most important decisions of your student’s life.

Lee Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte. Send questions to: lee@bierercollegeconsulting.com; www.bierercollegeconsulting.com 

Hope and help for adolescents and young adults in mental distress

A recent survey of adolescents and young adults by the children’s advocacy organization Common Sense Media found some disturbing trends.

By and large, the young people surveyed are pessimistic about their futures, bored in school, disillusioned with politicians, and – perhaps most importantly – they don’t think their mental health is … well, healthy.

They attribute their mental health issues to social media, bullying and the internet in general. As a consultant for families of loved ones with mental illness, I can attribute some of the issues to self-medication, which can turn into substance use and abuse.

Adolescence and young adulthood are critical times in the development of mental well-being or mental illness. According to the National Institutes of Health, studies have found that roughly half of all lifetime mental disorders start by the mid‐teens and three‐fourths by the mid‐20s. Severe episodes are usually preceded by less severe ones, which can easily be overlooked or explained away by hormonal changes, school pressures and emerging sexuality.

There’s always hope. Counselors who pay attention to signs of mental distress and take action can often help the child emerge stronger and healthier.

What to look for

Signs and symptoms of mental distress or mental illness in adolescents can vary dramatically with the individual. Any significant changes in eating — either too little or too much, or a greater desire for sweets — can be a sign of depression.

Counselors and teachers may also observe other changes that look like symptoms of depression:

·        Sleep patterns: tired at school

·        Hygiene and cleanliness

·        Keeping their personal space habitable

·        Keeping up with schoolwork

·        Not hanging out with friends

·        Skipping school

·        Opting out of activities

Every adolescent or young person does one or more of these things at some time. But it’s important to pay attention to patterns of behavior that seem to last for a significant period of time.

Common causes of depression in adolescents can stem from hormonal or brain chemistry changes, social detachment or losing a friend group. Significant life changes in a family, such as divorce, a new baby, remarriage, the onset of a blended family or moving to a new community or school, can cause mood dysregularity.

The death of a beloved relative, friend or significant adult in the child’s life can also lead to depression.

What you can do

Freud didn’t call it “the talking cure” for nothing. Research has shown that talking through emotional distress with a trusted friend or therapist can be helpful.

But young people often find it difficult to express feelings of depression. When asked about it, they frequently will respond with “I’m fine” or “leave me alone.” It’s not that they don’t want to talk about it – it’s simply that they don’t have the words.

I like to use different tools to override their inability to express themselves. You can ask a child what color they feel like – blue for sad or yellow for happy perhaps. They can also characterize their feelings in terms of food: spicy (angry, anxious); bland (blah); or sweet (happy or content).

If a child is expressing a feeling of sadness or anxiety, there may be underlying causes. But don’t try to be your student’s therapist.

Sometimes their feelings are fleeting and will go away as quickly as they came, with adjustment to new situations or circumstances. Children tend to act differently at school than at home.

Take all of this information and your concerns to your child’s parent. They should have the student evaluated by their primary care physician. The doctor can perform a screening and, together, you can decide whether therapy is warranted. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, in fact, says there’s modest evidence that screening all adolescents between 12 and 18 for depression is beneficial.

Bonnie Lane is Principal Consultant with The Family Support Services, www.thefamilysupportservices.com , specializing in supporting families of loved ones with mental illness. She is a graduate of National Louis University with master’s degrees in both developmental and counseling psychology.  She is also a certified mediator and domestic violence counselor.  

Newer Posts
Older Posts

Link for Counselors

Current Publication

View Current Publication

Advertisements

LINK Newsletter for Counselors

Sign up to receive our bi-weekly e-newsletter.
Subscribe
© 2025 Link for Counselors |