- Obed Ratemo argues that schools need trained counsellors to strengthen learner psychosocial and emotional support.
- He says professional counselling requires specialised skills, confidentiality and clearly defined referral mechanisms.
- Ratemo maintains that dedicated counsellors would also support teachers and promote healthier learning environments.
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) should consider employing trained and qualified professional counsellors in all learning institutions to strengthen the provision of psychosocial, emotional and professional counselling services to learners and staff.
Learning institutions are increasingly confronted with social, emotional, behavioural, academic and personal challenges that may affect learners’ well-being, discipline and academic performance.
Teachers and school administrators also face challenges that may require professional counselling and psychosocial support.
While teachers play an important role in guiding and supporting learners, professional counselling requires specialised training, appropriate skills, confidentiality and adherence to professional practice.
Having a qualified professional counsellor in every learning institution would therefore complement the work of teachers, strengthen learner-support systems and promote safe, healthy and supportive school environments.
Professional counsellors would also be better placed to identify learners requiring specialised intervention and guide appropriate referrals where necessary.
Structured deployment framework
TSC should explore a structured framework for deploying professional counsellors in schools, with clearly defined roles, professional standards, confidentiality requirements and appropriate referral mechanisms for cases requiring specialised intervention.
Such a framework would help distinguish professional counselling from general guidance and mentorship while ensuring learners and staff receive appropriate support from trained personnel.
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Investing in professional counselling within learning institutions is an investment in the holistic development, well-being and future of learners, as well as the welfare of education professionals.
By Obed Ratemo
Obed Ratemo is a Psychological Counsellor and teacher at Mulunguni Senior School in Kwale County.
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