Special Education Counselor-Intern

Special Education Counselor-Intern

Under the supervision of a fully certified Texas School Counselor, the Special Education Counselor Intern will provide professional support in counseling, consultation, and program implementation for students receiving special education services. The intern will participate in assessing student needs, supporting Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, and collaborating with teachers, parents, and service providers to promote student academic, behavioral, and social–emotional success in compliance with Texas Education Code, IDEA, and district policy.

Education/Certification:

• Master's degree in counseling from an accredited university
• Licensure as a Texas School Counselor is recommended, but not required, for internship status.
• Eligible and preparing to take the TExES School Counselor (152 or 252) exam
• Completion of required practicum coursework and internship hours (typically 300–600 hours)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of counseling techniques, behavior interventions, and social-emotional learning strategies.
• Knowledge of special education law, processes, and compliance requirements under IDEA. Knowledge to interpret assessment data and assist in the development of student support plans.
• Strong consultation, communication, and interpersonal skills with parents, teachers, administrators, and students.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, documentation, and deadlines

Experience:

• Completion of required practicum or related fieldwork in counseling.
• Two years of teaching experience.
• Experience working with children or adolescents in educational or counseling settings is preferred.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Under the supervision of a certified Texas School Counselor and/or Special Education Administrator:
• Provide individual and group counseling to students receiving special education services in alignment with IEP goals.
• Assist in addressing social, emotional, and behavioral needs that impact learning.
• Support the implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and Social Skills training.
• Help monitor student progress toward counseling goals and document interventions.
• Consultation:
• Participate in Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committees to provide input on counseling-related goals and services.
• Consult with teachers, parents, and service providers to support students' emotional and behavioral functioning.
• Collaborate with administrators and outside agencies as appropriate to ensure continuity of services.
• Provide staff with resources on strategies for supporting students with disabilities in the general education and special education setting.
• Program Management & Compliance:
• Assist in maintaining student counseling records, case notes, and required documentation in compliance with IDEA, Texas Education Code, and FERPA.
• Participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of counseling programs that support students with disabilities.
• Support the district's comprehensive school counseling program in alignment with TEC §33.005 and TAC §239.600.
• Follow ethical and legal standards as outlined by TEA, ASCA (American School Counselor Association), and local board policy.
• Professional Growth & Communication:
• Participate in supervision meetings, professional development, and reflective practice activities.
• Maintain positive and professional communication with colleagues, students, and parents.
• Demonstrate initiative in learning district procedures and applying counseling theory to practice.
• Other:
• Regular Attendance
• Other duties as assigned by supervisors

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Working Conditions:

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Maintain emotional control under stress. Regular district-wide travel to multiple work locations as assigned; moderate lifting and carrying; may be required to lift and transfer students to and from wheelchair or assist with positioning students with physical disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Applicants for all positions are considered without regard to race, color, sex, (including pregnancy), national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other legally protected status. Additionally, the district does not discriminate against an applicant who acts to oppose such discrimination or participates in the investigation of a complaint related to a discriminating employment practice.