Aspiring Guidance Counsellor Shares Insights on Career Transition

A second-level teacher with eight years of experience is considering a shift to a career as a guidance counsellor. The educator, who has taught Irish and German, finds motivation in helping students clarify their life and career aspirations. Yet, concerns linger regarding the increasing number of students facing emotional and behavioural challenges.

Guidance counselling plays a critical role in the personal, educational, and vocational development of students. It is essential to recognize that a student’s career objectives are deeply intertwined with their personal experiences. According to an experienced guidance counsellor with over 20 years in the field, the psychological and emotional stresses experienced by teenagers have been on the rise.

Research indicates that factors such as social media and its pervasive influence may contribute significantly to this increase. Many children engage with platforms well before they possess the emotional maturity needed to navigate the complexities of online interactions. This situation has led to a growing number of referrals from teachers and school leaders to guidance counsellors.

The prospective guidance counsellor must consider how this rise in personal counselling demands will shape the services provided to students. Numerous websites have emerged as valuable resources for guidance counsellors, helping students explore educational and vocational pathways. Notable examples include qualifax.ie, careersportal.ie, apprenticeship.ie, eunicas.ie, and myfuturechoice.com. These platforms offer essential data related to educational and career opportunities both at home and abroad.

Postgraduate training programmes in guidance counselling are designed to equip future counsellors with the necessary skills to address the personal challenges faced by an increasing number of students. The Department of Education supports this endeavour by offering six two-hour counselling supervision sessions annually for guidance counsellors.

In cases where a student’s immediate health and safety are a concern, guidance counsellors can access support services through the appropriate referral structures in their schools, including Tusla, the family support agency. This access is vital in ensuring that students receive the help they need in a timely manner.

The transition from teaching to guidance counselling is not merely a career change; it represents a commitment to supporting students in navigating their complex lives. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, the role of guidance counsellors becomes increasingly important in fostering the well-being and success of students.

For those interested in pursuing a career in guidance counselling, this path offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young individuals, guiding them as they forge their futures.