Psychological counselors' views on the problems encountered in schools (Manisa provincial case)

The aim of this study is to identify the challenges encountered by psychological counselors' in carrying out their counseling and guidance activities. Research data were obtained through face-to-face and remote interviews with psychological counselors working in primary and secondary educational institutions. The study group consisted of 68 psychological counselors selected through accessible sampling method. A case study approach was utilized as a qualitative research method in the study. The interview form contained six open-ended questions, focusing on the opinions of teachers, school administrators, school staff, students, and parents regarding the guidance services. The responses provided by the psychological counselors were recorded and analyzed. The data obtained from the records were analyzed using descriptive analysis method. The findings of the study revealed that psychological counselors have highly positive relationships with school management, with the administration being perceived as collaborative, supportive, and helpful. However, in two of the other five areas examined in the study, psychological counselors reported significantly negative views. These areas are related to parents and students. As for the opinions on the Psychological Counseling and Guidance program, there were both positive and negative views, which were relatively close to each other.