<p>That’s an interesting report, desiw. Thanks. </p>
<p>Perhaps Smitty needs some time to make a successful transition from school-based counselor to independent counselor. I’ve seen other folks trying to make that same change (as well as those who are switching from being a college admissions officer to indie counselor). Even though there is obviously a lot of overlap among these different jobs, it can be tougher than one might suspect to move from one role to the next. </p>
<p>In particular, independent counselors should explain what they can–and can’t–do clearly to their client families from the get-go and also be clear about what their fees include. Misunderstandings in this department can often be where the counselor/student relationship goes awry.</p>
<p>On the other hand, parents and students need to recognize that they are paying private counselors for their knowledge and experience but not to “get them into” a dream college. Yes, of course, the good counselors can help their advisees to present colleges with the strongest possible application. But it’s also important for families to listen when a counselor suggests that a dream school will be a high reach. The relationship can also go awry when the students (and, especially, the parents) become disgruntled as soon as the counselor recommends revising the college list.</p>
<p>Are there any other CC members who have hired Smitty as a private counselor?</p>