Being a College Counselor on Today's Campus ─ Roles, Contributions, and Special Challenges

There has been increasing attention in recent years, both positive and negative, on college student mental health and the provision of counseling services on campus. At the same time, there continue to be misperceptions of college counselors, both within and outside college campuses. Drawing on over 20 years of experience as a college counselor, Dr. Sharkin addresses these misunderstandings, providing a detailed description and discussion of the many roles and contributions these professionals have.

He explores topics such as the history of college counseling and its evolution, who college counselors are, how someone can become a college counselor, and what skills are needed to be a college counselor today. Roles and responsibilities, including counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, outreach, and administrative duties, are discussed in detail and supplemented with both research and case studies. Diversity competencies and special challenges faced by today’s college counselors are also considered. This engaging and accessible book will be a valuable resource for those already working in college mental health settings and those wishing to enter the field.

Bruce S. Sharkin, PhD, is a staff psychologist and associate professor in the Department of Counseling and Psychological Services at Kutztown University. Currently, he serves as administrative director and chair of his department.