The New Counselors Institute supports novice counselors with foundational knowledge and practical strategies for implementing a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs.
Participants engage in 24 credit hours of personalized and intensive support. This includes 12 hours of strategically designed training with participants selecting the learning opportunities and dates that best fit their interests, campus needs, and schedules. Options include:
- RISE Conference – an online conference focused on improving outcomes for students in exclusionary discipline settings.
- Peer Power – practical peer mediation training.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for Schools – a two-day deep dive into DBT strategies for school settings.
- Crisis Response – training that includes a crisis response kit for schools.
- Annual AWARE Retreat – an opportunity to revitalize and experience wellness-focused activities.
In addition to the 12 hours of selected training, participants receive 12 hours of executive coaching scheduled to best meet their needs and availability. Coaching may include a half-day campus visit, online coaching sessions, in person coaching, or visits to ESC Region 13 for in-depth support. This professional development opportunity is designed by the participant to meet the specialized needs of their school community.
The New Counselors Institute is designed to build confidence and competence, strengthen practical skills, and empower new counselors to grow into impactful leaders on their campuses.