The Impact of Counseling Services in Addressing Students’ Common Problem

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of the guidance counseling program at Cantilan National High School in addressing common student problems across family, individual, community, and school domains, anchored in Bronfenbrenner’s Social-Ecological Systems Theory. The scope of this study is confined to Cantilan National High School in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. A purposive criterion sample of 151 students participated in the study. Using mixed-methods for the research design, quantitative data were collected utilizing expert-validated surveys to identify prevalent problems and assess the program's perceived impact, while qualitative data from open-ended questions explored student recommendations. Results indicated that online game addiction (f=120), bullying (f=92), and poverty (f=76) were the most prevalent challenges. Despite these pervasive issues, the counseling interventions yielded a positive overall perceived impact (WM = 3.83, Agree), particularly excelling in assisting students' adaptation to the school environment (WM = 4.72). Qualitative findings underscored an urgent need for structural enhancements, specifically the implementation of comprehensive anti-bullying campaigns and increased counselor availability. In conclusion, while the counseling program effectively mitigates systemic behavioral risks, sustaining its efficacy requires a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach to bolster school resources and directly address pervasive community and peer-level disruptions.