PENGALAMAN KAUNSELOR PELATIH SEMASA MEMBERI PERKHIDMATAN BIMBINGAN DAN KAUNSELING

Abstract

A trainee counselor is an individual undergoing practical training under a counseling education program to develop professional skills in providing guidance and counseling to clients. They play a role in applying counselling theories and techniques in real-life situations under the supervision of experienced professionals to strengthen competencies and ensure effectiveness in resolving clients’ issues. This study aims to evaluate the experience of trainee counsellors in providing guidance and counselling to clients throughout their practical training period. The main focus of the study was to identify the level of mastery of communication skills, empathy, and intervention approaches applied by trainee counsellors in dealing with various issues such as emotional stress, family conflicts, and academic achievement. The study sample consisted of 3 trainee counsellors at a Malaysian public university. The researchers conducted a qualitative study using a semi-structured interview method. Next, the interview process was followed by converting the audio recording into a transcript for thematic analysis The results obtained were analyzed using the ATLAS.ti software. The findings found that trainee counsellors faced challenges in building strong professional relationships, but managed to improve their competence through continuous training and supervisory support. This study has important implications for the need to provide intensive training programs and structured coaching to improve the effectiveness of trainee counsellor services.