The Art of Being a School Counselor: An Interview with Nancy Regas
In this enlightening interview, Nancy Regas, author of The Art of Being a School Counselor, shares her unique journey from nursing to becoming a passionate high school counselor. Nancy reveals the profound impact a dedicated school counselor can have—not just scheduling classes but being the essential “hub of the wheel” connecting students, parents, teachers, and administrators.
Nancy Regas’ Career Path: From Nursing to School Counseling
Nancy’s career journey was not straightforward but deeply rooted in helping others. Initially trained as a nurse and working as a perinatal educator, Nancy found joy in teaching parenting classes and supporting families. A pivotal moment occurred during a doctoral session for spouses of candidates, where a professor encouraged her to pursue counseling. She briefly explored marriage and family therapy before a unique opportunity led her into school counseling.
Her first role involved working on a grant-funded violence and substance abuse prevention program for pregnant and parenting teens, which opened new doors and helped Nancy find her voice in education. Later, she earned her school counseling credential and settled into a high school counseling role, where she felt truly at home.
The Role of a School Counselor: Much More Than Scheduling
Contrary to common misconceptions, Nancy describes a school counselor as the pivotal connection point within a school’s ecosystem. The counselor links together administrators, teachers, parents, and students, often aligning disparate perspectives to focus on the student’s holistic development.
“The counselor is the hub of the wheel, and the spokes are administrators, teachers, students, and parents—all working with students.”
Nancy emphasizes the critical life skills that high school students must master to navigate adulthood successfully. These include:
- Time Management
- Organization
- Responsibility
- Accountability
- Accessing Resources
- Knowing When and Whom to Ask for Help
- Punctuality
She explains that mastering these foundational skills is the true focus behind academic subjects, and without them, success beyond school is unlikely regardless of academic intelligence.
Creating a Trusted, Sacred Space for Students
One of Nancy’s defining practices was building trust by respecting the privacy and individuality of each student. She created a safe, sacred space in her office where students felt comfortable expressing vulnerability without fear of judgment or comparison to siblings. This open-door policy encouraged ongoing dialogue and communication that equipped students with crucial emotional and communication skills.
This approach nurtured respect and helped students develop self-awareness and accountability. Nancy’s office became a refuge and a place where students learned to become their own best friends instead of their own worst enemies.
Addressing Misconceptions and Challenges of School Counseling
Nancy highlights that the common perception of counselors focusing on scheduling is limiting. Counselors often handle emotional crises and facilitate communication among diverse stakeholders. She also shares examples of challenging experiences, such as parental skepticism and administrative ‘duties as assigned’ like assisting in lockdowns, illustrating the complexity and demands of the role.
Writing The Art of Being a School Counselor
After retiring from public education, Nancy felt compelled to write her book, driven by stories and faces of the students she deeply missed. She aimed to inspire current and future counselors by emphasizing passion and connection rather than just job tasks. Her book addresses counselors, teachers, administrators, and parents, recognizing each as a spoke in the wheel supporting students.
“The passion is what fueled me and what kept me going. Every day was different.”
Nancy intended her book to elevate the profession by focusing on the personal side, the relationships, and the critical communication skills often overlooked in graduate programs and everyday practice.
Lessons Beyond Education
The communication and listening skills Nancy discusses have a wide application outside of schools. She notes a reviewer who is an electrical supervisor uses her counseling tools for workplace communication, highlighting the universal value of authentic listening and respectful dialogue.
Narrating the Audiobook: Bringing Authenticity to Life
Where to Learn More
- The Art of Being a School Counselor book and audiobook – Outskirts Press
- Nancy Regas Voiceover Website
- Amplify Audiobooks
- Audiobook Connection
- Pro Audio Voices
- Pro Audio Voices Direct Sale Platform
- Watch the Video Interview on YouTube
Whether you are an educator, parent, or professional seeking to improve communication and deepen your understanding of adolescent needs, Nancy Regas’ insights offer invaluable guidance on the art of school counseling. Her story reminds us that school counselors are not merely administrators—they are vital mentors shaping future adults.
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