Which professional would be most likely to provide counseling services to a student with anxiety about applying to college?

The most suitable professional to provide counseling services to a student experiencing anxiety about applying to college is the school counselor. School counselors are specifically trained to help students navigate academic, social, and emotional challenges. They focus on developing students' skills, addressing their personal and academic concerns, and providing guidance throughout the college application process.

In situations where students face issues related to anxiety, school counselors implement strategies to support mental health and wellness, using their expertise to help students build resilience and coping strategies. This makes them well-equipped to address the specific anxieties that arise during the critical phase of planning for higher education.

While school psychologists also support student mental health, their role primarily revolves around assessment, intervention, and consultation, often focusing more on diagnosing and treating psychological issues rather than immediate guidance through processes like college applications. Clinical psychologists typically provide therapy for more severe psychological disorders and may not specialize in the educational and developmental contexts of school environments. Teacher assistants support educators in classroom management and administrative tasks and do not typically engage in counseling duties.