Editors’ Note

Abstract

School counselors and their role within the mental health community has become such an important topic. We’re excited that two full issues of the Journal of Professional Counseling: Practice, Theory & Research have been dedicated to highlight the important role of the professional school counselor and the collaboration with other mental health professionals and community organizations. The variety of topics in this issue digs into the collaborative spirit of school counseling. First, Lenares-Solomon et al. present school-based mental health services as a component of wraparound services. Next, Hodges and McDonald present information on mandated reporting for child abuse and the role school counselors play in the reporting process, as well as information on a data collection tool for documentation. Then, ZiomekDaigle and Heckman discuss mental and behavioral challenges that typically arise in school situations, with school counselors poised as uniquely qualified to facilitate the prevention and intervention programs based on a tiered framework. Finally, Eckhardt McLain presents a plan for novice school counselors to ensure success in the profession. Whether you are a new school counselor, or a counselor with years of experience, these articles will inspire you to think of different capacities we can continue to enhance our development to ensure Texas school students receive the benefits of a comprehensive school counseling program. The Texas School Counseling Association is gearing up for our annual Professional School Counseling conference to be held February 9–11, 2020, in San Antonio, Texas. This conference is designed specifically for professional counselors providing services in educational settings for elementary and secondary students. There will be a variety of programs focusing on Advocacy, Behavioral Interventions, Career Development, College Readiness, Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, Crisis Response, Multicultural and Social Justice, Professional and Legal Issues, Social and Emotional Learning, Substance Abuse and Addictions, Technology, Trauma and Grief, Wellness and Self-Care, and more. The 2019 conference had over 2,000 attendees with an overwhelmingly positive response! Whether you are a Texas school counselor or not, there are bound to be sessions that will benefit your professional development. JOURNAL OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING: PRACTICE, THEORY & RESEARCH 2019, VOL. 46, NOS. 1–2, 1–2 https://doi.org/10.1080/15566382.2019.1686313