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School Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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School Counselor information

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$59K

$93.7K

How much do school counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for school counselor in Decatur, GA is $58,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $67,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a school counselor do?

A school counselor helps students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally by providing guidance, support, and resources. They work with students individually or in groups to address issues like academic planning, personal problems, or career exploration. School counselors also collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to create a positive and inclusive school environment. Their goal is to ensure all students are equipped to reach their full potential.

What are the requirements to be a school counselor?

To become a school counselor, applicants must hold a master's degree in school counseling or a related field and obtain a valid Florida school counseling certification. Candidates must also pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) for school counselors and complete a background check. Certification requirements include completing supervised field experience and applying through the Florida Department of Education.

What is the difference between School Counselor vs School Psychologist?

AspectSchool CounselorSchool Psychologist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in school counseling or related field; state certification/licenseMaster's or doctoral degree in school psychology; state certification/license
Work EnvironmentElementary, middle, or high schools; focus on student guidance and career counselingElementary, middle, or high schools; focus on psychological assessment and mental health
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, educational agenciesPublic and private schools, mental health agencies, clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesDistinguishing mental health services and assessment functions

School counselors primarily focus on student guidance, academic planning, and career counseling, while school psychologists specialize in mental health assessment, psychological testing, and therapy. Both roles work within educational settings and require relevant certifications, but their core functions differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a School Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a School Counselor, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or education, typically with a master's degree and state certification in school counseling. Familiarity with student information systems, career assessment tools, and mental health screening software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust with students and staff set exceptional counselors apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively supporting students' academic, social, and emotional development within educational environments.

What degree do most school counselors have?

Most school counselors hold a master's degree in school counseling or a related field. They are also typically required to obtain state certification or licensure, which may include passing a licensing exam and completing supervised fieldwork. A bachelor's degree is usually a prerequisite before pursuing a master's program in counseling or a related discipline.

Is a career in school counseling worth it?

A career as a school counselor offers the opportunity to support students' academic and emotional development, often involving a stable work environment and a typical school schedule. It requires relevant education and certification, and job prospects are generally steady due to ongoing demand for mental health and student support services in schools.

How much does a school counselor get paid?

The average salary for a school counselor varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 annually. Salaries can be higher in urban districts and with additional certifications or specialized skills. Many school counselors work full-time during the school year and may receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What Do School Counselors Do?

School counselors help students understand and overcome behavioral or social problems through individual or group counseling. They also help students set realistic academic and career goals by providing individual and group counseling sessions based on learning needs, such as time management, organization, and effective study habits. Other duties include evaluating students’ abilities and interests through interviews and aptitude assessments; identifying and reporting cases of abuse or neglect; teaching classes on topics such as drug abuse, bullying; planning for college and careers after graduation; and working with teachers, parents, and administrators to develop strategies to help students succeed.

How does a school counselor typically collaborate with teachers and parents to support student success?

School counselors work closely with teachers to identify students' academic and social-emotional needs, often conducting joint meetings to discuss strategies for individual student support. They also maintain regular communication with parents, providing updates on student progress, addressing concerns, and offering resources or referrals when needed. This collaborative approach ensures a holistic understanding of each student, helping create a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
What are the most commonly searched types of School Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of School Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to School Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA? For School Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching School Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for School Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for School Counselor jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most School Counselor job openings:
Counselor, Elementary School

Counselor, Elementary School

Fulton County Schools

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Fulton County Schools rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 555 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Summary

Utilizing innovation, guidance, advisement, counseling, student support, and collaboration, School Counselors ensure student success by implementing a comprehensive ASCA aligned school counseling program that addresses the academic, career and personal/social development for all students

Essential Duties

Develops, submits ASCA aligned annual comprehensive school counseling plan - 80% of time providing direct services to students and approximately 20% of time in program management, system support, and accountability
Develops and maintains annual and monthly plans that detail activities and programs for students
Consistently communicates comprehensive school counseling plans and supports to parents and stakeholders
Develops and communicates appropriate college, career, social/emotional support resources to students
Accesses and utilizes all available data to develop counseling supports to meet students' needs and to access counseling plan effectiveness
Expend a minimum of 80% of counselor time providing support and guidance directly to students and ensure all students on caseload can access their counselor in a timely manner 
Provides schoolwide proactive and preventative services to all students in the areas of academic, social-emotional, and college/career development  
Provides classroom guidance and instruction to all students on post-secondary options and plans, social-emotional topics, study, organizational, and time management skills and other life skills 
Ensure that students' academic courses and 4-year plan aligns with their personal interests and career/college aspirations 
Identify off track and at-risk students and provide targeted counseling supports to achieve on time student graduation 
Facilitate consistent access to college and career resources such as college fairs, college representatives, scholarships, military, financial aid (FAFSA), and college admissions 
Conducts individual and small group counseling, advisement, and provides specialized interventions for student
Uses student data to design school counseling supports specifically for student sub-groups 
Provides crisis intervention and postvention support to students in crisis or emotional distress 
Develop and implement prevention, education, and awareness activities based on unique needs of students (e.g. drug/alcohol, student safety, healthy relationships, coping skills, etc.) 
Attend student meetings to help interpret and understand student data, performance and plans of support for students
Collaborates with other school and district staff to ensure students receive appropriate support to achieve on-track graduation 
Utilizes all available technology resources to effectively implement   a comprehensive school counseling program
Conducts an annual program evaluation that measures ASCA implementation alignment and program effectiveness, shares results with principal, district, and other relevant stakeholders
Completes monthly logs to provide evidence of delivery of services per the ASCA model
Provides evidence of planned activities which indicate tasks related to role are completed
Adheres to state and district guidance and provide evidence of compliance  
Administers an annual student survey to assess student needs, student interests, and feedback on school-based counseling programs and report results to Principal and District Staff
Accurately reviews and maintains student records and student transcripts related to counseling and advisement 
Participates in continuous professional development activities to improve knowledge and skills
Promotes positive relationships with students, parents, school staff, and community
 

Required Education
Master's Degree in School Counseling
Certification/Licensure
Must hold or be eligible for S-5 certification in school counseling; S-6 or S-7 preferred
Experience Qualifications
Two (2) years of experience in counseling students as individuals and in groups and experience interpreting standardized testing results preferred
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate a guidance and counseling program based on student needs
  • Proven skill and knowledge in ASCA model of counseling and counseling/advising individuals and groups
  • Knowledge of college/career entrance requirements and ability to communicate accurate information for college/career guidance
  • Ability to consult with teachers, staff, and parents regarding the needs of students
  • Knowledge of available school, system and community resources
  • Awareness of cultural diversity and its implications for school counseling
  • Must be able to successfully manage multiple tasks, projects and responsibilities
  • Ability to apply critical thinking skills in rendering solutions to various issues
  • Ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively as a member of a team and in a professional manner
  • Knowledge of current career and college entrance requirements
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
Working Conditions
  • Normal office environment
Physical Demands
  • Routine physical activity associated with normal office environment

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