Guidance and Counseling as a profession, is now being recognized. As such, it carries with it certain responsibilities and expectations. The role of a guidance counselor is significant in the lives of the people. His work demands competence, excellence, integrity and trust.
The R.A. 9258 otherwise known as Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004 reveals that “The State recognizes the important role of guidance counselors in nation-building and promotes the sustained development of a reservoir of guidance counselors whose competence have been determinedby honest and credible licensure examinations and whose standards of professional practice and serviceare world-class and internationally recognized, globally competitive through preventive regulatorymeasures, programs and activities that foster their continuing professional development.”
Furthermore, the law defines Guidance and Counselling as a profession involving the use of integrated approach to the development of a well-functioning individual primarily by helping him/her utilize his/her potential to the fullest and plan his/her present and future in accordance with his/her abilities, interests, and needs. It includes functions such as counseling, psychological testing, (as to personality, career interest, study orientation, mental ability and aptitude) research, placement, referral and group process.
The passage of the law in 2004 requires the guidancecounselors to secure a license before practicing. In order to qualify in taking the board examination, an applicant must be a holder of a Bachelor’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling or in other allied disciplines and a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from an institution in the Philippines or abroadrecognized and accredited by the CHED.
Therefore, guidance and counseling as a profession requires proper education and training, character and skills – proper education and training are necessary to qualify for the position; character in order to make a difference in the lives of the students; and skills for effective planning, implementation and evaluation of the guidance program.
By: HERMIE G. DURAN | Guidance Counselor III | Orani National High School | Orani, Bataan
