Article

School Counselor Mental Models: Missing Piece to Role Transformation 

Authors: Jennifer Scaturo Watkinson (Loyola University Maryland) , Tameka Grimes (Wake Forest University) , Shaun Sowell , Shannon Roosma

Abstract

Drawing from Senge’s Organizational Learning Model, the authors of this phenomenological study explored school counselors’ mental models (i.e., assumptions) related to their professional role. To elicit mental models, thirteen school counselors participated in a focus group where they selected and described images that represented their assumptions about the profession. Utilizing thematic analysis, findings were categorized into three themes: 1. Caring and Supportive, 2. Help Students Navigate Experiences, and 3. Be Reactive. Implications for how mental models could be used to address discrepancies between training and professional practice is discussed.

Keywords: school counselors, mental models, system thinking

How to Cite: Watkinson, J. S. , Grimes, T. , Sowell, S. & Roosma, S. (2025) “School Counselor Mental Models: Missing Piece to Role Transformation ”, Counseling Scholarship & Practice in Educational Communities. 1(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.7275/cspec.2294