A TEACHER IS COUNSELOR

JENALYN G. GUINTO

The role of a teacher is not confined in teaching. They impart knowledge to learners, guide them to the right path, motivate them to become better, inspire them not to give up and produce a well-balanced individual that could be of help to our society. Another role of a teacher is a counselor wherein they prepare students to cope with diverse odds and challenges of life. As students may struggle, especially in family matters, a teacher can be an ear so they would not feel alone. As students may face emotional challenges, a teacher can empower them to become tough in handling such stuff. A student who is physically abused, the teacher can extend a tender loving care in such a way that she is being cared for. Counselling recognizes that everyone needs to be heard. It is an extension of healing in the realm of emotions and spiritual life. Taking time counsel to our learners is taking the challenge that our role does not end in the four corners of the room. As we live in a world of quick fixes, fast and instant replay, we should commit ourselves to be a hand and ears to them. As a counselor, we should refrain from judgement, get their trust, being patient and lastly, recognize our own limitation because we are not genie or magician who provides solution to all their problems. As a counselor it requires time because some counselling cannot be resolved in an hour or two. But taking time to listen to them can have a lasting impact on their lives. As we do counseling to our learners, let us guide them to make a better choice, options and instill in their minds that their decisions today determine their tomorrow. I am a teacher, likewise I am a counselor.

-oOoThe author is Teacher

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