Date of Publication

7-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology Major in Clinical Counseling

Subject Categories

Counselor Education

College

Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education

Department/Unit

Counseling and Educational Psychology

Thesis Advisor

Nino Jose C. Mateo

Defense Panel Chair

John Addy S. Garcia

Defense Panel Member

Jerome A. Ouano
Estesa Xaris Q. Legaspi
Leo J. Capeding
Aime T. Guarino

Abstract/Summary

The present study explored Filipino school counselors' concepts and practices of collaboration with other mental health professionals. Using a multiple-case study design, interviews were conducted with fourteen practicing guidance counselors to examine how they define collaboration, their reasons for engaging in it, perceived benefits, and the challenges they encounter. Findings indicate that school counselors in the Philippines conceptualize collaboration primarily through engagement practices such as consultation, referral, and follow-up, which differ from Western models emphasizing co-planning and interdisciplinary teaming. School counselors viewed collaboration not only as a means of providing the best possible care for the clients but also as a path towards professional development, augmenting the limited options for growth. Findings also revealed that school counselors typically initiate collaboration activities, revealing possible imbalances among practitioners. Moreover, the absence of a protocol in conducting collaboration and the unstructured or informal agreement with other mental health professionals were considered to be challenges that impede reaping the full potential of collaboration. Implications for counseling practice and the professional development of counselors were discussed.

Keywords: collaboration, school counselors, mental health professionals

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Student counselors—Philippines; Educational counseling—Philippines; Mental health services—Philippines; Interprofessional relations

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Embargo Period

7-2027

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Available for download on Thursday, July 01, 2027

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