Special Education Counselor

Special Education Counselor

Primary

Purpose:

Support students' social, emotional, and behavioral needs within the special education setting through counseling services, collaboration, and consultation. Develop and implement individualized counseling goals aligned with students' needs, monitor and document student progress. Function as part of the student services team and collaborate with campus staff, families, and outside providers to support student mental health, academic success, and overall wellbeing.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Master's degree in counseling or closely related field from an accredited college or university LPC, LCSW, or Certification in school counseling preferred Special Knowledge/

Skills:

Knowledge of special education laws, procedures, and compliance requirements, including the IEP/ARD processes Skilled in developing measurable counseling goals aligned with student needs Strong consultation skills for conferencing with teachers, parents or guardians, and students Knowledge of neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices Ability to support students with executive functioning, emotional regulation, social skills, and coping strategies Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment in sensitive situations Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

Three years of teaching experience OR three years of experience in counseling

Major

Responsibilities and Duties:

Social Work:
Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support as needed in accordance with district procedures. Assist families in accessing community resources, mental health supports, healthcare services, and social service programs as needed. Promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive school environment for students in special education. Establish strong rapport with students. Provide rationally competent, evidence-based interventions. Coordinate and integrate school and community resources and refer students, parents, and staff to community resources where appropriate.

Conduct suicide risk assessments and safety planning in accordance with district protocols and ethical guidelines. Conduct counseling evaluations as part of the special education assessment process. Consultation:
Consult with school personnel regarding student mental health, social/emotional concerns, and classroom support strategies. Coordinate with outside agencies, mental health providers, and community resources. Collaborate with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families to support student success and implementation of accommodations. Maintain ongoing communication with parents/guardians regarding student progress and counseling supports, as appropriate. Program Management:
Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents/guardians. Utilize data collection and progress monitoring tools to evaluate effectiveness of interventions, accommodations, and goals. Maintain accurate documentation, counseling records, evaluation reports, and progress monitoring data in compliance with district and legal requirements. Comply with policies established by federal and state laws, State Board of Education rule, and board policy.

Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations. Other:
Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
Tools/Equipment Used:
Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment Posture:
Prolonged sitting; frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion:
Frequent walking Lifting:
Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds);
Occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds and over) Environment:
Work inside, may work outside FLSA Status:
Exempt Salary: $67,000- $80,500, based on experience $225 towards monthly health insurance contribution $20,000 district paid life insurance policy