With recent studies finding that nearly one in five students experiences mental health challenges, it has never been more critical to identify the best means to support student social and emotional health. To address the challenges of supporting student well-being, Boston College's Lynch School of Education and Human Development launched a Master’s Program in School Adjustment Counseling in September 2025. Building on the Lynch School’s top-ranked School Counseling program, this program is designed to equip future counselors with the vital skills for supporting Pre K-12 students experiencing mental health conditions, to ensure that they thrive in both academic settings and their personal lives.
“Our program will train future school adjustment counselors in evidence-based best practices and equip them with the clinical skills needed to address the growing mental health crisis among youth,” shares Dr. Julie MacEvoy, associate professor of the practice and program director for both the School Adjustment Counseling and School Counseling Programs. “We're preparing compassionate, highly trained counselors who will make a real difference in students' lives.”
Care for the Whole Person
The impetus for this program stems from the increasing demand for specialized support targeting the diverse experiences students face today—from the effects of socio-economic disparities to mental health challenges intensified by global events. In a time when students require more than just academic guidance, school adjustment counselors will be trained to foster a holistic approach to student development. This involves nurturing students intellectually, emotionally, socially, and ethically, embodying the “whole child” philosophy championed by the American School Counselor Association. This philosophy aligns seamlessly with BC’s Jesuit values of cura personalis, or "care for the whole person,” which emphasizes recognizing and supporting each student’s unique journey.
The program curriculum integrates evidence-based methods that have been proven to enhance students’ social and emotional well-being while supporting their academic achievement. With over 900 hours of practicum training, students will gain the experience necessary to play a critical role in closing the opportunity gap for those facing mental health challenges, contributing to a safe, inclusive, and equitable school environment for all. This hands-on experience is crucial for effective training; as Maria Theodorakakis, assistant professor of the practice and associate program director of the programs, explains, “Through tailored coursework and the invaluable mentorship of field supervisors, students will integrate academic learning with hands-on experience to hone their clinical skills and internalize their professional mission as School Adjustment Counselors.”
Meeting the Need
The program addresses the increased demand for School Adjustment Counselors in Massachusetts, where demand for such professionals has surged by 72.4% between 2018 and 2023. With over $52 million recently invested by school districts, fueled by state and federal funding, the landscape of school counseling is evolving to address student mental health. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to meet this demand, integrating their training into the established School Counseling framework to foster inclusive environments that support every student’s potential. By combining evidence-based practices with an understanding of systemic inequities, these future counselors will play a crucial role in bridging the gap in mental health services, contributing to a healthier and more supportive educational environment.
In the face of today's challenges, the M.A. in School Adjustment Counseling emerges as a vital resource for fostering resilience, self-discovery, and achievement among Pre K-12 students. As the Lynch School evolves its educational offerings, this program promises to significantly impact the future of school counseling. Students ready to transform lives and build brighter futures will find their path starts here.