The Residency Lab
Bridging the History, Policy, Preparation, and Practice of the School Counseling Profession
This report examines the history, policy, preparation, and evolving practice of the school counseling profession in California, highlighting the profession's transformation into a cornerstone of student success and well-being. Drawing on historical analysis, current research, state policy, workforce data, and case studies, it explores the challenges and opportunities shaping school counseling today. The report also examines California's first statewide School Counselor Residency Program as an innovative strategy to strengthen the workforce and improve equitable access to comprehensive school counseling services. It concludes with recommendations to build a sustainable, well-prepared school counseling workforce that can meet the academic, college and career, social-emotional, and mental health needs of California's diverse student population.