What does a School Counselor do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A School Counselor works to support students in school through conversations, guidance, and preventive efforts. The role involves identifying and working with psychosocial issues that can affect students' well-being, development, and school performance. School Counselors often collaborate with school management, teachers, and student health teams to create a safe and inclusive school environment. The work takes place both individually with students and in groups, where the counselor leads initiatives to promote mental health and prevent bullying or other problems. The work environment is characterized by meetings, conversations, and administrative tasks, often with a fast pace and demands for flexibility.
Salary development over time
The salary for School Counselors has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 38 800 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 40100 SEK per month, which corresponds to a total increase of over 7% during this period. This development reflects an increased demand for social support in schools and an overall improved salary trend for the profession. Salaries have also been influenced by higher educational and competency requirements, as well as a broader focus on student health and psychosocial support within the education system.
School Counselor salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 40100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 49,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
- Hourly wage: 241 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 40 200 SEK, men 40100 SEK – very small differences
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary between regions, but larger differences are found between different employer sectors and education levels
Many school counselors report that the variety of tasks is extensive – no two days are alike. A typical week can include everything from urgent student conversations to long-term values work and collaboration with social services or healthcare providers.
Education and qualifications
To work as a School Counselor, a degree in social work (sociology) is generally required, which involves three and a half years of university studies. The education includes both theoretical courses and practical training, and after graduation, experience in social work with children and youth is often necessary. Some employers also require additional training or specific courses in areas such as conversation techniques or child and adolescent psychology.
- Formal qualification: Degree in social work (3.5 years)
- Practical training: Includes practicum (VFU)
- Further training: Courses in conversation techniques, mental health, and child protection may be advantageous
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Tips for selection: Interest in children and youth, good teamwork, and communication skills are important qualities
Common benefits and allowances
School Counselors often have collective agreements that include benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Other common allowances include flexitime, subsidized lunches, and sometimes remote work options depending on the employer.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a School Counselor varies between regions and school types, but demand for the role is generally high. A challenge is that the workload can be substantial, especially at schools with many students or limited resources. It can also be emotionally demanding to handle difficult student situations and conflicts. At the same time, the role offers opportunities to make tangible differences in students' well-being, which attracts many to the profession. Job openings are also influenced by political decisions and investments in student health.
Tips for aspiring School Counselors
To succeed as a School Counselor, it is good to combine an attentive and empathetic attitude with clear communication and structured work. Being responsible and able to handle stressful situations facilitates urgent student cases or increased workload. It is also valuable to have good teamwork skills, as collaboration with other professionals and parents is central. Continuing education in conversation techniques and child development enhances professional competence. Finally, maintaining integrity and setting boundaries is important, as the role often involves handling sensitive issues and confidentiality.
Key facts about School Counselors
- Education level: Degree in social work (3.5 years)
- Work environment: School environment, often in student health teams
- Work form: Full-time, daytime, with possible flexitime
- Demand: 237 job openings within the profession
- Gender differences: Very small – women and men earn equally
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a School Counselor, opportunities open for roles such as coordinator for student health, supervisor for other counselors, or further education as a specialist in areas like child protection or psychotherapy. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that it is difficult to make an exact assessment of future prospects for School Counselors, as the role is part of a broader occupational group. However, the demand for psychosocial support in schools remains high, and many positions are available. Investments in student health and increased awareness of mental health issues among children and youth suggest a stable need for the role in the future.
Frequently asked questions about School Counselors
- What is the salary of a School Counselor?
- A School Counselor has an average salary of 40100 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- No, women and men generally have the same salary within this profession.
- What education is required to become a School Counselor?
- Degree in social work at university, which takes about 3.5 years.
- What is the job market like for School Counselors?
- Currently, there are 237 job openings in the profession, and demand is high.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for a School Counselor?
- The highest salary is 49,200 SEK/month and the lowest is 36,200 SEK/month.
- What personal qualities are important for a School Counselor?
- Empathy, responsiveness, integrity, and teamwork skills are central qualities.
