Career and Post-Graduate Development

Photo of Jamie Friedman, MS, LPC, NCC
Photo of Jamie Friedman, MS, LPC, NCC

Jamie Friedman, MS, LPC, NCC

I am currently an elementary school counselor at Arrowhead Elementary (Methacton School District).

How did you get your start in the field?

While at Ursinus, I participated in a research project and an internship experience, both of which guided me toward my current career.  The research project provided me with the opportunity to visit preschools to observe and interact with young children. My internship at the Renfrew Center, a mental health facility designed to treat adolescents and women with eating disorders, led to me attaining a position as a counselor within the facility. I combined my interest of working with children and helping/counseling others, with my overall love of school, and decided to pursue a career in elementary school counseling.

Major(s)

Psychology

Minor(s)

Wellness/Fitness (Exercise Sports Science)

Current Position

Elementary School Counselor

Employer

Methacton School District, Arrowhead Elementary School

Graduate School & Degree

I attended Villanova University’s graduate program and earned a Master of Science in Counseling and Human Relations with a certification in elementary school counseling. Post graduate, I attended West Chester University and earned my post-masters certificate toward licensing as a Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a National Counseling Certification.

Impact of Ursinus

The small academic setting provided me with personalized learning opportunities that encouraged me to explore my career interests.

Piece of Advice

“Live, Love, Laugh”

Paying It Forward

Two retired Methacton professionals met with me to compare and contrast their roles within the school setting. This meeting helped me identify my career path. I am forever grateful. To pay it forward…. I have spent time working as a (former) adjunct professor at West Chester University within the Counselor Education department. I taught school counseling practicum classes, which involved teaching and supervising school counseling graduate students.  Additionally, I have supervised interns within my work setting and have worked with numerous students to provide them with insight about a career in school counseling.