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Teachers Are Not Professional Counselors—Know Your Limits

In many Ghanaian schools, some teachers assume the role of professional counselors simply because they completed an "Introduction to Guidance and Counseling" course during their training. However, completing an introductory course does not make one a qualified counselor—just as having wings does not make a butterfly a bird. 

The primary aim of this course is to help teachers recognize situations requiring counseling, understand basic counseling principles and ethics, provide initial psychological support, and integrate this knowledge into their teaching practices. It does not equip them to manage complex personal or emotional issues.

A Case of Overstepping Boundaries

A recent discussion in a professional forum highlighted the risks involved when teachers attempt to counsel students without proper training. A Senior High School teacher shared that a female student approached him for advice regarding her boyfriend’s infidelity. 

Rather than offering initials support and referring her to the school’s counselor, the teacher chose to engage in personal conversations with the student over the phone. He advised her to remain in the relationship and resolve the issue with her boyfriend.

This private exchange came to light when the student’s elder brother found the chat and reported the matter to the headmaster, accusing the teacher of encouraging the relationship. 

The teacher is now facing disciplinary action—not because his intentions were harmful, but because he crossed professional boundaries.

Upon further inquiry, several issues became clear:

1. The teacher was not a trained or designated counselor – Despite the presence of a professional counselor in the school, the teacher handled the situation independently.
2. The student was not a minor – At approximately 18 or 19 years old, the situation did not raise immediate child protection concerns.
3. The teacher’s actions led to misinterpretation – His private engagement with the student was misconstrued, resulting in accusations and professional repercussions.

This situation is a cautionary tale—no matter how well-intentioned a teacher may be, stepping beyond their professional scope can lead to unintended consequences.

The Role of School Counselors

Schools appoint professional counselors for a reason. Counseling is a specialized field requiring extensive training, ethical practice, and strict confidentiality. Professional counselors are equipped to navigate complex emotional and psychological issues while maintaining accountability.

A qualified counselor:

1. Facilitates decision-making rather than giving direct advice – They guide students to explore their options and make informed decisions.
2. Documents all sessions – This documentation provides an official record, safeguarding both the student and the counselor if concerns arise.
3. Maintains confidentiality – Conversations remain private unless disclosure is required by law or necessary to ensure the student’s safety.
4. Seeks parental consent when necessary – In cases involving minors or sensitive issues, counselors follow appropriate procedures to involve parents or guardians.

What Should Teachers Do Instead?

When a student confides in you about a personal problem, follow these professional steps:

1. Offer Psychological First Aid (PFA) – Listen empathetically, provide emotional support, and create a safe space for the student to express themselves.
2. Refer to the School Counselor – Always direct the student to the appropriate professional. If no counselor is available, escalate the matter to someone trained in counseling.
3. Respect Professional Boundaries – Your primary responsibility is to teach. Even if you possess some counseling skills, it is best to defer to the appointed professional.

Why Teachers Should Stay Within Their Professional Scope.

Attempting to act as a counselor without the necessary training exposes teachers to professional and personal risks:

• Misinterpretation of Intentions – Even well-meaning advice can be misunderstood or taken out of context.
• Accusations of Misconduct – Handling sensitive issues without proper authority can result in disciplinary action.
• Lack of Legal Protection – Unlike professional counselors, who are governed by regulatory bodies such as the Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) and the Ghana Psychological Council (GPC), teachers lack institutional protection if disputes arise.

Who Qualifies as a Professional Counselor?

In Ghana, becoming a professional counselor requires advanced academic and practical qualifications:

• A Master’s Degree in Counseling – This is the minimum educational requirement to be recognized as a professional counselor.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Counseling or Psychology – This qualifies an individual as a counseling assistant, not a professional counselor.
• Other Degrees with Counseling Training – If your primary degree is outside counseling, you are considered a para-practitioner with limited authority in handling serious cases.

Conclusion

Teachers play a vital role in shaping students’ academic and moral development, but counseling is a specialized field requiring formal training and professional oversight. If you genuinely care about students' well-being and feel drawn to counseling, pursue the proper qualifications. Until then, respect the boundaries of your role.

When students bring personal issues to you, your responsibility is to provide initial support and refer them to qualified professionals. Acting beyond your expertise not only endangers your career but also risks harming the very students you aim to help.