School Counselors (for Teens) – Nemours KidsHealth

  • Some counselors lead support groups for students who are going through the same issues. Ask your counselor what support groups are offered at your school. For example, some schools have groups for:
    • LGBTQ+ students
    • students with social anxiety
    • dealing with grief when a loved one dies 
    • learning mindfulness 
    • improving study skills 

    How Do I See the Counselor?

    Seeing a counselor is different at each school. You may be assigned a counselor (or advisor) when you start the school year. Or your school may leave it up to you to go to the counseling office on your own. Your school counselor might visit each class to let students know how to see them.

    Your school’s website, someone in the school office, or a trusted teacher can also tell you how to see the counselor. In most schools, students can make an appointment with the counselor to talk about whatever’s on their mind.

    What if I Don’t Have a Problem?

    Students can talk to counselors about things other than problems. Maybe you have ideas for ways to make your school more welcoming to new students. Or you want to hold a fundraiser for a cause that matters to you. Maybe you want to start a climate action group or a group that can help stop youth violence. You might want to organize student volunteers to tutor younger kids. Your school counselor could be the person to help you make it happen.

    Even if you don’t have a problem, your school counselor can be a good person to know. They might turn out to be a helpful adult mentor — someone who can guide you through high school or toward a career that fits your strengths. So, stop in and say hello. Share what’s going well for you. And if you need their help or advice, just ask!