Guidance and Counseling Teachers’ Perception of Implementing E-Counseling

This study aims to explore school counsellors’ perceptions towards the implementation of e-counseling services in Malaysian secondary schools. This qualitative study adopted a case study design. Data were collected entirely through semi-structured online interviews involving four school counsellors from various states. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data based on research questions that examined perceptions, challenges, and benefits of e-counselling implementation. The findings revealed that e-counselling was viewed as an important alternative, especially during the COVID pandemic, due to its flexibility in terms of time and space. However, limitations were also identified, particularly in terms of technological skills, data security, and the effectiveness of therapeutic engagement. The implications of the study indicate the need for improvements in training, technological infrastructure, and clearer ethical guidelines to ensure the effectiveness of e-counselling services in schools. This study is expected to provide valuable insights for school administrators and the Ministry of Education in enhancing the implementation of ethical, systematic, and user-friendly e-counselling services.