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Role of the School Counsellor

In: Philosophy and Psychology

Submitted By divyasrivastava9
Words 5565
Pages 23
Divya Srivastava

THE ROLE OF THE SCHOOL COUNSELLOR
School counselling is a branch of applied psychology that deals with problems or behaviours that interfere with the academic progress or social acceptance of children in the school system. School counsellors assess cognitive functioning and identify mental retardation, giftedness, developmental delays, instructional difficulties, and learning disabilities. They recommend educational programs; assess behavioural and emotional problems, and support parents and teachers. They also deal with the full spectrum of social problems including family violence, peer interactions, substance abuse, sexual abuse, neglect and the influences of these problems on school functioning. School counsellors act as a screening and referral resource for a wide range of medical, social, and emotional disorders that interfere with academic functioning. In general, school counsellors study behaviour, protect and promote mental health, and apply the principles of psychology to improve school adjustment and learning. Specific services, however, depend on the competencies of the school counsellor and the needs of the particular school system being served (Koe, 1991). For instance, the school where I was placed for my field-work had a school counsellor who also had to fulfil the role of a special educator and a remedial teacher as and when the need arose. School counsellors are employed for the purpose of providing specialized support for students with exceptional needs. They act as a link between the school, the home, the community and other agencies to help the student function effectively and achieve their fullest potential. The school counsellor is expected to carry out certain duties and responsibilities – they provide direct counselling services to students; participate in the identification and planning process with regard to the unmet

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