Upper School Counselor

Cognita Schools; New York (NY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 103,000; Full time

Job summary

York Preparatory School in New York City seeks an experienced Upper School Counselor to support the social, emotional, and mental wellbeing of students starting Fall 2026. The role involves individual and small-group counseling, developing wellbeing initiatives, and collaborating with families, faculty, and external providers.

The successful candidate will lead parent education sessions, craft wellbeing communications, and contribute to a safe, inclusive school environment while upholding

Qualifications

• New York State licensure in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, LMHC or related field.
• Experience providing individual and group counseling to high school students.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and small-group counseling for students.
• Develop and facilitate wellbeing initiatives.
• Lead parent education opportunities and wellbeing communications.
• Collaborate with external specialists to ensure continuity of care.
• Contribute to a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment.

Skills

Counseling experience

Communication skills

Education

New York State licensure (Counseling / Social Work / Psychology / LMHC)

Job description

Employment type

Full-time, 1 year contract renewal cycle.

Salary

Up to $94,000 pa (dependent on experience).

Start date

1 September 2026.

About the School

York Preparatory School is a New York City independent school committed to creating a nurturing environment that challenges and supports each student in a diverse and inclusive setting. Compassionate and accessible educators guide our students through a traditional and rigorous curriculum, while employing a range of innovative techniques to cultivate each individual student’s skills, abilities, and interests. York strives to educate the whole child, meeting each student where they are, and supporting them as they grow into lifelong learners and responsible citizens.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Upper School Counselor to join our fantastic team.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world".

About the Role

York Preparatory School is seeking a compassionate and student-centered Upper School Counselor to support the social, emotional, and mental well-being of students beginning in Fall 2026. Working closely with students, families, faculty, and external providers, the successful candidate will provide individual and small-group counseling, develop and facilitate wellbeing initiatives, and offer guidance and resources to support student success. The role also includes leading parent education opportunities, creating wellbeing-focused communications, collaborating with external specialists to ensure continuity of care, and contributing to a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment. As a key member of the student support network, the Upper School Counselor will play an important role in promoting student wellbeing while maintaining a strong commitment to safeguarding and child protection.

Who We Are Looking For

We are seeking a compassionate, collaborative, and experienced counseling professional who is passionate about supporting the wellbeing and development of young people. The ideal candidate will hold New York State licensure in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Mental Health Counseling (LMHC), or a related field, and have experience providing individual and group counseling to high school students. They will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with students, families, and colleagues. A flexible, proactive approach and the ability to work collaboratively with the wellness team, school leadership, and faculty are essential, along with a commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and student-centered school environment.

Closing Date

Sunday 30th August 2026

Safeguarding and Background Checks

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

Equal Opportunity

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.