High School Counseling Conversations®

This episode is one that high school counselors come back to again and again — and for good reason. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to reset with your team before the chaos of the school year begins, this conversation is packed with practical tips for hosting an off-campus planning day that sets the tone for a successful year. From crafting SMART goals and setting team norms to reviewing key documents and mapping out your first few weeks, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to help your team start the year strong.Resources Mentioned: Visit my High School Counselor Amazon StorefrontPodcast: Episode 32, Back to School Tips for High School Counselors: Office PrepBook: “Future Focused Leaders: Relate, Innovate, and Invigorate for Real Educational Change” by Bill Ziegler and Dave RamageBook: StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom RathResource: Top 5 CliftonStrengths in the Online Gallup StoreResource: The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni Resource: The ASCA National Model 4th EditionBlog: 6 Keys to Holding a Productive Planning DayLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comOriginal show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/summer-team-planning-day/

If there’s one thing I hear over and over from high school counselors, it’s that there’s just never enough time in the day. That’s why I loved this conversation with Kaci Ranger—so much so that I’m bringing it back as a listener favorite! In this episode, Kaci and I talk through simple, effective time management strategies that are actually doable for busy counselors. We cover everything from building a realistic daily schedule to setting boundaries around email and meetings, plus easy ways to organize your digital tools without adding to your plate. Whether you’re brand new to the role or deep into your counseling career, I know you’ll walk away with a few tips to help you lighten that mental load.Resources Mentioned: More episodes on time managementLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comOriginal show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/time-management-strategies-for-counselors/

We’re bringing back one of your favorite episodes all about “Coffee with the Counselor”, because any chance to connect with parents (and drink coffee!) is a win, right? In this replay, I’m sharing what I’ve learned from hosting these events at my own school—the good, the not-so-great, and everything in between. From picking the perfect time of day to choosing topics parents actually want to hear about, I’ll walk you through how to pull it off without a ton of stress. If you’ve been thinking about trying one of these events (or making your next one even better), this episode’s got you covered!Resources Mentioned: Resource: Coffee with the Counselor Parent Workshop MaterialsResource: High School Counselor Kickstart CourseResource: NAMI [National Alliance on Mental Illness]Blog: Why I Love “Coffee with the Counselors”Book: Love and Logic by Jim FayLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comOriginal show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/coffee-with-the-counselor-plan/

In this replay of a High School Counseling Conversations listener-favorite episode, we’re diving into the world of artificial intelligence—specifically how it can support and streamline your school counseling work. With all the buzz around AI, it’s time to explore how this powerful tool can actually save you time and enhance your counseling program!I’m sharing over ten practical ways you can use AI as a school counselor, from writing letters of recommendation and tough emails to prepping for presentations and even interview practice. You’ll also hear key differences between ChatGPT and Google Gemini (formerly Google Bard), tips for using AI ethically, and why it’s important to view AI as a helpful ally, NOT a replacement.Resources Mentioned: Digital Mega BundleChatGPTGoogle Gemini (formerly Google Bard)Facebook Group: AI in School CounselingArticle: “We Used A.I. to Write Essays for Harvard, Yale and Princeton. Here’s How It Went.”Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comOriginal show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/leverage-ai-for-school-counselors/

Starting out as a high school counselor is both exciting and overwhelming—and there’s a lot you don’t learn until you’re in the role. In this episode, I’m reflecting on the top three things I wish I knew when I was just beginning my counseling career. From navigating tricky relationships with parents and colleagues to connecting with hard-to-reach students, these lessons are ones I wish I could go back and share with my younger self.Whether you’re brand new to high school counseling or still preparing for the role, this episode offers honest encouragement to help you grow with confidence. You’ll also hear practical advice on avoiding common mistakes, finding meaningful professional development, and embracing the challenges that come with stepping out of your comfort zone. Resources Mentioned: Sign up for my free 3-day video challenge for high school counseling job interviews.Get on the waitlist for The Clique Collaborative!Podcast: Episode 30, Where to Look for Relevant High School Counseling Professional DevelopmentPodcast: Episode 31, 4 Things I’ve Learned About Getting Money for Professional Development OpportunitiesPodcast: Episode 57, Your Guide to Navigating Parent RelationshipsBlog: 4 Places to Find Relevant School Counseling Professional DevelopmentBlog: Your Cheat-Sheet for Navigating Parent Relationships: 4 Pro TipsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comOriginal show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/beginning-high-school-counselor/

Feeling burned out as the school year ends? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into the tough(but important) question many school counselors ask themselves: Is it time to move on? Summer break gives you the space to reflect, and this conversation offers support and clarity as you sort through the weight of burnout and consider what’s next.We’ll walk through practical questions to ask yourself, common scenarios that lead counselors to consider a change, and how to identify what you truly want in your career. Plus, if you’re not ready to leave but know something needs to shift, we’ll explore what changes could make your current role more sustainable. Whether you’re staying or stepping away, this High School Counseling Conversations listener-favorite episode is here to help you move forward with purpose.Resources Mentioned: Clique Collaborative MembershipPodcast: The Lazy Genius- Episode 368: My Playbook for a Lazy Genius SummerResearch Article: School Counselors’ Work-Related Rumination as a Predictor of Burnout, Turnover Intentions, Job Satisfaction, and Work Engagement by Mullen, Backer, Chae, and LiPodcast: Episode 101, Navigating Adult Friendships in The Workplace with Blake BlankenbeclerPodcast: Episode 98, What Should You Do if an Administrator Isn’t Acknowledging the Value of Your Work?Podcast: Episode 77, What it Looks Like to Implement MTSS In a High School Setting with Dr. Jake Olsen and Dr. Peg DonohuePodcast: Episode 60, Setting Boundaries with Others and Managing Expectations Around BurnoutPodcast: Episode 45, 4 Different Caseload Model Types (Plus My Honest Thoughts on Them)Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative

If you’ve ever been curious about the differences in school counseling roles based on the grade levels they support, then this episode is for you. I’m joined by Alabama school counselors, Laura Rankhorn and Kim Cumbley. Between the three of us, we have experience as elementary, middle, and high school counselors.  Our conversation centers around the differences and similarities between these grade levels. You might be surprised to find that our skills are really interchangeable in any grade level! One thing is for sure – there’s so much opportunity to collaborate with school counselors who support grades other than your own.The building blocks are established by elementary school counselors, especially in developing social-emotional skills in students, and high school counselors must continue this work. Elementary, middle, and high school counseling roles may have their differences, but at the core, they all share the same goal of providing stellar support to students.If you’re considering a leap between grade levels, don’t be afraid! Embrace it as something new and full of possibilities. If high school is where you’re headed, my audio course, The High School Counseling Kickstart can offer additional support!Resources Mentioned: Join The High School Counselor Kickstart CourseGet on the waitlist for The Clique CollaborativeShop Counselor Clique back-to-school resourcesThe Counselor Accents PodcastBook: Growing Your Program for School Counselors by Laura Rankhorn and Kim CrumbleyLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/comparing-school-counseling-roles/

I love sharing ideas, tips, and advice about all things related to school counseling. But nothing excites me more than the energy, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective of new high school counselors! They’re full of ideas and ready to hit the ground running. So if you’re a new high school counselor wondering, “What do I need to know before the school year begins?”—this episode is for you.Starting out in this role can feel overwhelming, so in today’s episode, I’m sharing four must-listen podcast episodes specifically for new high school counselors. Each one highlights a different aspect of school counseling and includes a short clip with practical advice or a helpful idea to consider.This podcast is a way for me to support school counselors, especially those who are just getting started or looking for fresh ideas, whether it’s for running small groups or using data effectively. So if you're new to the role, be sure to check out these four episodes to help you feel more confident and prepared heading into the fall.Resources Mentioned: Resource: High School Planning Mega BundleResource: School Counselor Beginning of the Year Presentation Resource: Bulletin Board Bundle 2Free Resource: New Counselor Podcast PlaylistResource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio CoursePodcast: Episode 32, Back to School Tips for High School Counselors: Office Prep Podcast: Episode 73, What I Wish I Knew as a Beginning High School CounselorPodcast: Episode 72, Don’t Make These Mistakes as a New High School Counselor (and What to Do Instead!)Podcast: Episode 22, A Pep Talk for New High School CounselorsLeave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook

As the school year wraps up and summer break draws near, it’s tempting to mentally check out and leave everything behind. But before you do, there are a few key steps you can take that will save you headaches next fall and make your summer more peaceful! In this episode, I guide you through three simple yet powerful end-of-year tasks to help you wrap things up thoughtfully and set yourself and your students up for success.You’ll learn how to capture important data and reflections while they’re still fresh, ensure students who need extra support have access to summer resources, and dream big about your summer, whether that means professional growth or well-deserved relaxation. If you want to step into summer with a clear plan and a lighter load next year, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to check out the resources I mention to take action right away and start the new school year stress-free!Resources Mentioned: Resource: End of Year BundleFree Resource: 3-Day Interview Video ChallengePodcast: Episode 168, You’ve Collected Data All Year - Here’s What to Do With It NowLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode169

You’ve been collecting data all year—student attendance, classroom lesson frequency, intervention effectiveness, and student stories… but now what? In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly what to do with all that school counseling data so it actually works for you. Because let’s be real, data is only powerful if you know how to use it to show your students’ progress and advocate for your role as a school counselor.You’ll hear how to make sense of the data you’ve collected all year without getting overwhelmed. Whether you’ve set SMART goals, facilitated small groups, or tracked individual student progress, I walk you through how to pull that information together in a meaningful way. We’ll review the three types of data to track and the important role each of them plays. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with five different places where you can share out your school counseling data. You didn’t gather all of that information only to not do something with it!Resources Mentioned: Free Resource: Podcast Playlist for New High School CounselorsFree Resource: Data Collection Ideas GuideBlog: 4 Valuable Places to Share Your Compelling School Counseling DataBlog: 3 Unassuming Ways to Incorporate Perception Data Into Your High School Counseling Program Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode168

From awkward group projects to job interviews, communication is the life skill students will use daily, but rarely get taught. In the final episode of my “Life Skills Your Students Should Master” series, we’re diving into healthy communication life skills - the kind that makes a lasting impact on students’ personal and professional lives. If you missed last week’s episode on time management or the one before that on budgeting, be sure to check those out too! In this episode, I’ll share why communication is a must-have life skill, how it ties into ASCA mindsets and behaviors, and my favorite hands-on methods to help students practice. Whether it’s role-playing tricky social situations or handling difficult conversations, I’m offering practical ways to get students comfortable with communicating, no matter how uncomfortable the topic.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Communicating Feelings Classroom LessonResource: Soft Skills Bundle  Resource: Healthy Relationships Classroom LessonFree Resource: New Counselor Podcast PlaylistASCA Mindsets and BehaviorsPodcast: Episode 165, Life Skills Your Students Should Master [Part 1: Budgeting Basics]Podcast: Episode 166, Life Skills Your Students Should Master [Part 2: Time Management]Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative a...

Time management is one of those essential life skills that often gets overlooked—and yet it can make a huge difference in a student’s success both now and in the future. In this episode, we’re continuing our life skills series (listen to part one HERE!) with a focus on helping high schoolers understand and practice effective time management before they graduate. You’ll hear how this skill connects to ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors and why it’s a game-changer for building independence.I’ll share simple, practical ways to introduce time management through your counseling program, from identifying schedule non-negotiables to exploring planning tools students will actually use. You’ll also get strategies to help students build routines, increase self-awareness, and approach it all with grace and empathy. Be sure to check out the resources below to put these ideas into action!Resources Mentioned: Resource: High School Counselor Kickstart Audio CourseResource: Organization Digital Counseling Activity Resource: Life After High School Classroom LessonResource: Transition to College Digital Presentation Resource: End of Year High School Counseling BundlePodcast: Episode 166, Life Skills Your Students Should Master [Part 1: Budgeting Basics]Podcast: Episode 83, How to Use Needs Assessments Strategically This Year in Your High School Counseling ProgramResource: ASCA Mindsets & BehaviorsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook

Imagine if your students graduated not just with academic knowledge, but real-world skills they’ll use every day. Today we’re starting that conversation. I’m kicking off a three-part series that will cover essential life skills that students should master before they leave high school, no matter what their post-secondary plans are.First up: the basics of budgeting - a skill so many students are missing when they leave high school. I’m sharing why financial literacy matters now more than ever, how you can easily tie it into the ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors, and some creative ways to make budgeting relatable (and even a little fun!) for your students. You’ll also hear why understanding their own money mindset is key to setting them up for success.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Student Budgeting WorkbookResource: Financial Literacy BundleResource: ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode165

When it comes to student mental health, the need is huge, but the budget? Not so much. If you’ve ever looked around your school and thought, “How am I supposed to support these students with so little to work with?”, this episode is for you. I’m sharing five practical, low-cost (or completely free) ways to address mental health needs on your campus.Whether you’re part of a fully staffed counseling department or flying solo, the truth is, you don’t have to do this alone. These strategies aren’t about adding more to your plate; they’re about giving you tools you can have in your back pocket, so you’re not starting from scratch in the middle of a crisis. Having these tools ready will help you feel more confident and grounded when it matters most!Resources Mentioned: Resource: Grief BundleResource: Digital Activities Mega BundleResource: Coping Skills PresentationResource: NAMIResource: Everfi- Mental Wellness Course (free)Podcast: Episode 154, How to Set Up a Peer Leader Program in Your SchoolPodcast: Episode 119, From Off-Track to Graduation: Counselor Tips for Supporting At-Risk StudentsPodcast: Episode 102, Support Strategies for Meeting Your High School Students’ Mental Health NeedsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email to lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website:

Substance use in schools isn’t just a “some kids” issue. It’s happening across all kinds of student groups and the trends are changing fast. In this episode, I’m joined by Kriya Lendzion, a therapist, addiction specialist, and powerhouse speaker who is helping us understand what teens are using and what we can actually do about it as school counselors.We talk about evolving substances like THC and nicotine, the mental health impacts of use, and realistic ways to support students - without needing to be the expert. Kriya shares ideas for prevention programs, conversation starters, and how to make your messaging more effective. You’ll also get tips for working with parents and the wider school community, so you’re not navigating this alone. Grab the resources linked below...you’ll want them!Resources Mentioned: Substance Use ResourcesFree Educator ResourcesPodcast: Episode 112, Solution-Focused School Counseling with Dr. Russell A. SabellaLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode163

After graduation, students are eager to jump into the next chapter of their lives, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. Summer melt is real, and it can make the transition to the next chapter way harder than it needs to be. In this episode, I’m breaking down what summer melt is, why it happens, and, most importantly, what we can do to help students stay on track. It's all about finding solutions and making sure our students have the support they need when they need it the most!We’ll talk about the reasons why students sometimes lose momentum after graduation and how that can impact their future plans. I’ll share six main ideas for how school counselors can help transition seniors smoothly into their post-graduation plans. From simple check-ins to providing extra resources, we’ve got a lot of ways to step in and help bridge the gap between graduation and the fall semester. We’ve got this! Let’s make sure your students don’t just drift away over the summer but move confidently into whatever comes next.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Transition to College Presentation Resource: Life After High School Classroom LessonPodcast: Episode 140, Highs and Lows of Working with Seniors with Brittany SlaglePodcast: Episode 120, Accepting the Reality That Some Seniors Might Not GraduatePodcast: Episode 68, 4 Ways to Repurpose Student Pictures to Celebrate Your SeniorsLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode162

What if students could earn college credits, explore the world, and gain invaluable life experience, all before starting their traditional college journey? In this episode, I sit down with Neal Crosson from Verto Education to talk about a unique yet powerful path: first-year study abroad programs. We dive into how these programs work, who they’re best suited for, and how counselors can support students considering this path. Plus, we tackle key questions around credit transferability, program structure, and what makes a student a great fit for this experience. Let’s expand the conversation around post-high school options, because for the right student, a first-year study abroad could be a game-changer!Resources Mentioned: Verto Education WebsitePodcast: Episode 147, Exploring Gap Year Opportunities for Your Students (or You!) with Julia RogersLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode161

Are non-counseling duties taking over your job? If you’re spending more time on testing, paperwork, and hall duty than actually working with students, you’re not alone and it doesn’t have to be this way. In this episode, I dive into the reality of these overwhelming responsibilities and why they can lead to burnout and resentment. But don’t worry, I’m not just here to vent! I’m sharing practical ways to manage these tasks so you can get back to what you do best: supporting your students.Resources Mentioned: Resource: Student Ambassadors ProgramResource: Beginning of the Year PresentationFree Resource: New Counselor Podcast PlaylistFree Resource: 4-Day High School Counseling Advocacy Email ChallengePodcast: Episode 156, Time Management Strategies to Lighten Your Mental Load as a School Counselor with Kaci RangerPodcast: Episode 154, How to Set Up a Peer Leader Program in Your SchoolLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode160

The college search should be an exciting journey, but for many students, it’s filled with pressure, competition, and anxiety. Too often, students and parents fixate on prestigious schools without considering whether they’re truly the right fit, leading to stress and a loss of self-discovery in the process. Today’s guests, Jen and Jared, school counselors and co-founders of Forget the Rankings, are here to change that! They’re challenging the traditional, prestige-driven mindset and introducing a values-based approach that helps students find colleges that align with their personal goals, priorities, and well-being!Jen and Jared have developed a powerful tool that encourages meaningful conversations between students and parents about what truly matters in a college experience. By shifting the focus from rankings to values, they’re making the application process less overwhelming and more empowering. In this episode, they share how their approach is not only helping students make better college decisions but also improving their mental health and confidence along the way.Resources Mentioned: Forget the Rankings Resources (values cards and more!)Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comConnect with Jared and Jen:Instagram: @forget_the_rankingsLinkedInWebsiteEmail: jared@forgettherankings.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode159

Choosing the right college is one of the biggest decisions a student will make. But what if there was a way to explore campuses across the country without ever leaving home? In this episode, I sat down with Alex Boylan, the creator and host of The College Tour, to talk about how the show is changing the way students and families approach the college search. After visiting over 180 college campuses in just four years, Alex definitely knows a thing or two about the process!Instead of relying solely on traditional campus visits, The College Tour gives an inside look at colleges through the eyes of real students, offering a fresh and engaging way to explore potential schools. Alex shares valuable advice on what students and families can do before and during campus visit to truly get a feel for a school. Plus, we discuss how The College Tour is helping counselors guide students in making more informed decisions about their futures.And for those worried about the financial side of college? Alex touches on an exciting new tool that could be a game-changer in helping students manage costs. This conversation will give you plenty of ideas on how to utilize The College Tour TV as a valuable tool in your counseling program!Resources Mentioned:Free Resource: The College Tour Counselor ToolkitWatch The College Tour TVResource: First Generation Small GroupResource: College BundleResource: Small Group BundleLeave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple PodcastsConnect with Lauren:Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviewsVisit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shopSend me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorcliqueFollow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorcliqueSend me an email mailto:lauren@counselorclique.comJoin the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.comFull show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode158