What defines evidence-based practices in school counseling?

Evidence-based practices in school counseling are defined as practices that are grounded in research and data demonstrating their effectiveness. This means that the interventions and strategies used by school counselors have been rigorously tested and evaluated to understand their impact on student outcomes. These practices utilize empirical evidence to guide decision-making, ensuring that counselors are implementing strategies that have been proven to work through scientific study and analysis.

Research-based practices take into account various factors such as developmental psychology, educational theory, and the unique needs of the student population. By relying on solid evidence, school counselors can respond appropriately to issues such as academic performance, social-emotional learning, and behavioral challenges, thereby promoting positive changes in students' lives. This approach ultimately enhances the overall effectiveness of the counseling programs in schools and fosters a data-informed culture of continuous improvement.