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In this mixed-methods study, the systemic barriers that hinder school counselors in California from effectively implementing Comprehensive School Counseling Programs aligned with the American School Counselor Association National Model frameworks and the California Association of School Counselors State Standards were explored. Quantitative survey data (N = 43) and qualitative interview (N = 15) findings revealed persistent challenges, including high student-to-counselor ratios, the assignment of non-counseling duties, limited administrative understanding of the counselor’s role, and insufficient access to targeted professional development. Despite these systemic obstacles, participating counselors demonstrated a strong commitment to equity-driven, data-informed, and culturally responsive counseling practices. The study’s findings highlight a significant misalignment between counselors’ professional preparation and their actual work conditions, exacerbated by inconsistent leadership support and reactive, crisis-driven school environments. Based on these results, actionable recommendations are offered for school counselors, educational leaders, and policymakers to enhance program fidelity, support counselor leadership within Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and promote equitable access to comprehensive counseling services for all students. Implications for future research include the need for broader regional studies, longitudinal analyses of caseload reduction efforts, and evaluations of culturally responsive professional development initiatives.