School Counselor

Saint Joseph School, a vibrant and faith-filled Catholic elementary school in Nashville, TN, is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Elementary School Counselor to join our community for the 2025-26 academic year. The ideal candidate is passionate about nurturing the spiritual, academic, social, and emotional growth of our young students in a supportive, Christ-centered environment. Saint Joseph School is dedicated to academic excellence and the formation of the whole child in the Catholic tradition. Our close-knit community of educators, parents, and students works together to create a learning environment where faith is integrated into every aspect of school life.

Position Summary:

The Elementary School Counselor will provide a comprehensive counseling program for students in grades PreK - 8th. This includes individual and small group counseling, classroom guidance lessons, and consultation with teachers, parents, and administration. The counselor will play a vital role in fostering a positive, safe, and supportive school climate that promotes the well-being of all students.

Key Responsibilities:

• Individual and Small Group Counseling:
  • Provide short-term individual and small group counseling to students on a variety of topics, including friendship skills, anxiety, family changes, and grief.
  • Assist students in developing coping skills, self-esteem, and positive social skills.
• Classroom Guidance: 
  • Implement a developmental guidance curriculum for all grade levels, addressing topics such as bullying prevention, character formation, study skills, and personal safety.
  • Collaborate with teachers to deliver age-appropriate lessons that support the academic and social-emotional needs of students.
• Consultation and Collaboration: 
  • Serve as a resource for teachers and staff, providing strategies for classroom management and student support.
  • Consult with parents to address their children's developmental needs and concerns, offering resources and support.
  • Collaborate with school administration and the student support team to identify and assist students in need of additional services.
  • Make referrals to outside agencies and professionals when necessary.
• School-Wide Support: 
  • Actively participate in the life of the school community, including school liturgies, faculty meetings, and parent events.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of school-wide programs that promote a positive and inclusive school culture.
  • Assist with crisis intervention and response as needed. 

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in School Counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• State certification/licensure as a School Counselor.
• Previous experience as a school counselor, preferably in a Catholic school setting, is highly desirable.
• A strong understanding of child development and counseling best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.