Title: Facilitating Counselling Variables As Predictors Of Counselor's Effectiveness Among Practicing Counselors In Abia State
Authors: Okoye, David, Akuwudike, Theresa, Amadi, Cajetan N., PhD
Volume: 8
Issue: 11
Pages: 8-16
Publication Date: 2024/11/28
Abstract:
This study investigated some facilitating counselling variables as predictors of counselor's effectiveness among practicing counselors in Abia State. The correlational research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study consists of all professionally-trained practicing counselors in Abia State in public and private secondary schools. A sample size of 75 professional practicing counsellors was drawn using the multi-stage sampling technique across the three senatorial zones of the state. The instrument used for data collection for this study was a questionnaire Titled: Facilitating Counseling Variable Scale (FCVS). Reliability of the Facilitating Counseling Variable Scale (FCVS) was determined using Cronbach Alpha method, with the following reliability coefficient obtained: rapport= 0.65, unconditional positive regard= 0.81, empathy = 0.83, congruence = 0.84 and self-efficacy = 0.78. Simple regression was used to test their corresponding hypotheses. Result showed that rapport (p=0.035<0.05), unconditional positive regard (p=0.003<0.05), empathy (p=0.002<0.05) and congruence (p=0.01<0.05) had significant relationship with counselling effectiveness among counselors. On the other hand, self-efficacy (p=0.30>0.05) does not significantly relate with counselling effectiveness. Based on this, it was recommended among others that counsellors should learn how to develop adequate rapport with clients before they enter into any counseling relationship with them. It was also recommended since self-efficacy was found not to relate with counselor's effectiveness, that counselors should not overrate themselves or their abilities so as not to be disappointed in the process of carrying out effective counseling.