School Therapist Job Description
A School Therapist plays a critical role in supporting the emotional, behavioral, and psychological well-being of students. Positioned within educational settings, they help children and adolescents manage issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and social challenges that may affect their learning and development.
School Therapists not only work with students but also collaborate with teachers, administrators, and parents to create a safe and inclusive learning environment. Their role combines therapeutic support, intervention planning, mental health education, and crisis management—all vital for helping students succeed both academically and personally.
Core Responsibilities and Duties
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Provide one-on-one counseling to students experiencing emotional, social, or behavioral difficulties.
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Facilitate group counseling sessions addressing shared student challenges.
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Conduct assessments to identify students’ mental health and behavioral needs.
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Design and implement individualized intervention or treatment plans.
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Deliver crisis intervention services for immediate psychological support.
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Collaborate with school staff, parents, and external mental health providers.
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Lead mental health awareness initiatives and preventive education workshops.
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Attend Individualized Education Program (IEP) and student support team meetings.
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Monitor student progress and maintain accurate, confidential case documentation.
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Advocate for student well-being in school policy and decision-making processes.
Required Qualifications
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Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related discipline.
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Licensure or certification as a School Therapist, Counselor, or Psychologist, as required by state regulations.
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Minimum of 2 years of experience working with children and adolescents, preferably in a school or clinical setting.
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Familiarity with mental health interventions, child development, and trauma-informed care.
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Understanding of confidentiality regulations, including FERPA and HIPAA.
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Experience working with diverse student populations, including students with disabilities.
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Proficiency in documentation and use of electronic record systems.
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Strong understanding of crisis management and conflict resolution strategies.
Preferred Skills
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills with children, families, and school staff.
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Ability to design mental health programs that address the school community’s needs.
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Capable of maintaining emotional resilience when handling sensitive student cases.
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Effective time management and organizational abilities in a dynamic school setting.
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Bilingual proficiency for communicating with diverse family backgrounds.
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Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
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Knowledge of behavioral assessment tools and evidence-based therapy models.
Work Environment
School Therapists typically work in:
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Primary and secondary schools (public and private)
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Special education institutions
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School-based health centers
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Online or blended learning environments
Work involves both scheduled counseling sessions and availability for immediate interventions during the school day.
Why This Role Matters
The School Therapist is an essential part of the school ecosystem. Their work helps students manage internal struggles, adapt socially, and stay mentally healthy, enabling them to engage fully with their education. By identifying challenges early and offering skilled support, School Therapists contribute directly to long-term academic and personal success.
