DEVELOPMENT OF COUNSELLING PROFESSION IN MALAYSIA: THE CURRENT POST PANDEMIC TREND

Abstract

The counselling landscape in Malaysia has undergone a major transformation in comparison to when it was first introduced, decades ago. Previously, attending a counselling session is associated with having a mental breakdown or disorder. Concerted efforts were employed by the government agencies, Board of Counsellors and non-governmental associations to reduce the stigmatization and encourage help-seeking behavior. A life changing experience occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic that has impacted the whole world and Malaysia was not exempted. It has opened the eyes of many people from various walks of life to seek help during the pandemic. Studies have shown that the technological advancements and wide usage of electronic devices during the pandemic has enabled helping professionals to reach out to the people via social media. Telehealth was set up and medium of providing online counselling were vastly employed. However, the ethical conduct and competency level of counsellors need to be upskilled to assist in providing a therapeutic. Although the landscape of counselling profession is changing and thriving, the counselling profession needs to be adequately equipped with skills that includes multicultural perspective in addressing current issues faced by the community.