In My School Counseling Era: Taylor Made

Few artists have managed to capture the essence of human emotions and experiences quite like Taylor Swift. Her heartfelt lyrics and relatable narratives have provided a musical backdrop for moments in our lives. Beyond the catchy chart-topping hits, Swift's songs offer valuable life lessons that can be applied to school counseling.

Having been immersed in the world of Taylor Swift, thanks to my resident adolescent “Swiftie,” I have been forced to listen and sing along to Swift’s song catalog. Through these sessions I have recognized that Taylor was made for school counseling. Young hearts grapple with emotions, from exhilarating highs to soul-crushing lows. It's during these transformative years that a school counselor can become a valuable ally. Like Swift's music, school counseling offers solace, understanding and empowerment to students.

“Out of the Woods"
"The rest of the world was black and white, but we were in screaming color."

Swift's lyrics remind us of the vibrant intensity of youth and its emotionality. Adolescence is fraught with uncertainty and decisions that feel monumental. Students navigate academic, social and emotional challenges. School counselors support students by offering a steady hand and a reassuring voice by acknowledging the difficulties and providing resources. For young people, situations can feel insurmountable or everlasting. In the counselor's office, all students can vocalize their dreams and dilemmas, knowing someone is ready to listen without judgment. School counselors encourage students to explore passions and interests, helping them to paint their world in colors. They support students in finding their paths, embracing their individuality and turning their dreams into reality.

"Fearless"
“And you know I wanna ask you to dance right there
 In the middle of the parking lot”

Fear is a powerful emotion that can hinder growth and personal development. "Fearless" encourages boldness, risk and embracing the unknown. School counseling offers the same encouragement, from making new friends to college admissions. School counselors help students process their apprehensiveness, teaching them to confront challenges with courage. Counselors nudge students to face their anxieties, providing the necessary tools and support to transform trepidation into fortitude, enabling students to chase their dreams without reservation.

“Stay Beautiful”
"You're beautiful every little piece, love"

Swift's "Stay Beautiful" illustrates a fundamental truth: Our worth is not defined by others. School counselors understand that self-esteem and self-worth are fragile. They help students understand that their true value is far greater than the judgments of others. Through open conversations and guidance, they encourage students to embrace their uniqueness and build self-confidence. They assist in cleansing the emotional wounds, aiding in the healing process and guiding students toward self-acceptance. In the counselor's office, students learn that embracing their flaws and imperfections is the first step towards genuine self-love.

“Long Live”
"Long live all the mountains we moved, I had the time of my life fighting dragons with you."

In "Long Live," Swift celebrates the beauty of shared experiences. School counselors foster positive relationships between students and their world, helping students build connections that last a lifetime. These bonds offer a support system and help students navigate the ups and downs of their school years. School counselors join students in dragon-fighting adventures, empowering them to conquer challenges and emerge victorious. School counselors help to shape resilient and compassionate individuals, hoping a student's journey through adolescence is marked by growth and self-discovery with skills useful beyond their educational walls. Like Swift's song suggests, the magic of these connections endures, serving as a source of inspiration and strength throughout their lives.

A student's life is like Swift's discography, with moments of joy, heartbreak and the pursuit of identity. Swift's songs resonate with people from all walks of life. School counselors mirror that and work to support and inspire students from diverse backgrounds. By recognizing the struggles and embracing the beauty of these formative years, school counselors ensure that every story is filled with color, compassion and the promise of a bright future. In the harmonious blend of Taylor Swift's lyrics and the compassionate space of school counseling, young hearts find the strength to navigate their youth, emerging stronger, wiser and ready to face the world with unwavering courage.

Contact NJSCA President-Elect Jennifer Correnti at jennifer.correnti@staff.harrisonschools.org.