Parents have an emotional attachment which sometimes clouds their judgement. Teachers carry the all-powerful club known as grades. Having a good sense of humor is a necessity for a counselor. Teenagers often find themselves overwhelmed with expectations and stresses from many different directions. Helping prevent young people from taking themselves or events too seriously is an important ability of a successful counselor.
Counselors often have a special area of expertise.
Being a diplomat is an important role of a school counselor. Being supportive of a troubled student, while acknowledging the frustration of a hard-working teacher who is trying to help that student succeed, sometimes involves a delicate balancing act. Encouraging students to have high expectations for themselves is another important responsibility of a school counselor. Especially when students lack belief in themselves, they need someone to support them without reservation. Counselors need to provide a safe place to discuss whatever issues are on their minds.