The Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association has appealed for the incorporation of professional counselling psychologists in public schools to address the growing mental health challenges and drug abuse among learners.
National Chairperson Prof Catherine Gachutha said the current reliance on educational psychologists has proven ineffective in addressing the complex psychological needs of students.
Prof. Gachutha, a specialist in marriage and family psychology, noted that learners in both primary and secondary schools are increasingly facing trauma, domestic conflict, and social instability, which require clinical expertise to manage effectively.
“Learners in both primary and secondary schools are increasingly facing trauma, domestic conflict, and social instability. These, which require clinical expertise to manage effectively,” she said.
Speaking during a KCPA members’ meeting at the ACK Conference Hall in Kericho, she added that many teachers assigned guidance roles often prioritise examinable subjects, further undermining the mental health support system in schools.
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Gachutha revealed that the Association is engaging key stakeholders, including NACADA and the Kenya Red Cross, in efforts to establish a multi-agency framework for mental health and suicide prevention interventions.
“Many teachers assigned counselling responsibilities often prioritise teaching examinable subjects. This is a trend that undermines the effectiveness of mental health support in schools, especially when addressing complex learner needs,” Gachuta said.
To strengthen mental health services at the grassroots, KCPA also aims to train community health promoters in counselling psychology.
In a long-term strategy, the Association is collaborating with the national government and the Shamili Institute to develop a mental health and psychosocial curriculum for Level 3 and 4 qualifications, to be offered through TVET institutions, training the next generation of mental health professionals.
By Kimutai Langat
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