Susan Austin
Lafayette Hill,PA
Summary
Compassionate, student-focused school counselor with 24 years of experience nurturing the academic, social, and emotional growth of elementary learners. Known for building trusting relationships, supporting families, and collaborating with educators to create a welcoming, inclusive school community. Experienced in counseling, crisis intervention, SEL programming, and data-informed decision-making aligned with the ASCA National Model.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Elementary School Counselor
Cheltenham Elementary School
08.2002 - Current
- Provide comprehensive counseling services for a diverse K–4 population, supporting students through academic, emotional, and social challenges.
- Conduct individual and small-group counseling focused on emotional regulation, social skills, conflict resolution, growth mindset, and mindfulness.
- Deliver engaging classroom lessons on bullying prevention, empathy, growth mindset, and study skills.
- Collaborate closely with teachers, administrators, and student services teams to coordinate interventions and support plans.
- Conduct crisis response and risk assessments, ensuring safety and swift access to appropriate care.
- Serve as an active member of MTSS and Student Support teams, using data to guide interventions and track progress.
- Build strong school-family partnerships through parent meetings and collaboration.
- Organize career guidance sessions, helping students understand potential future educational and career paths.
Counseling Intern
Tyrone Area Elementary School
09.2001 - 04.2002
- Delivered classroom lessons on bullying prevention for fourth- and fifth-grade students.
- Provided individual counseling focused on anger management and self-esteem development.
- Facilitated small and large group counseling sessions to strengthen students’ social skills.
- Designed and led classroom lessons to help students identify personal strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
- Fostered a safe, supportive environment that encouraged open discussion, trust, and positive student rapport.
AmeriCorps Volunteer
Centre County Youth Service Bureau
08.1999 - 08.2000
- Served over 1700 hours of community-based national service.
- Coordinated The Children's Scholarship Fund for Centre County Area.
- Assisted with special events and programs for Foster Family Support.
Education
Master of Education - School Counseling
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA05-2002
Bachelor of Science - Human Development & Family Studies
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA05-1999
Skills
- Individual & Group Counseling
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Crisis Intervention & Risk Assessment
- Behavioral Supports / MTSS & PBIS
- Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Student Advocacy
- Classroom Management
- Family & Community Engagement
- Program Development & Coordination
- Positive Psychology & Mindfulness
- Safety Care Training
Affiliations
American School Counselor Association
Pennsylvania School Counselors Association
Timeline
Elementary School Counselor
Cheltenham Elementary School
08.2002 - Current
Counseling Intern
Tyrone Area Elementary School
09.2001 - 04.2002
AmeriCorps Volunteer
Centre County Youth Service Bureau
08.1999 - 08.2000
Master of Education - School Counseling
The Pennsylvania State University
Bachelor of Science - Human Development & Family Studies
The Pennsylvania State University