ABSTRACT
Professional counsellors are trained to maintain a relationship with a client that has clear boundaries, to be non-judgmental, objective and to refrain from giving advice. It becomes apparent that many of the other roles they are expected to play are in conflict with this training, and it is not surprising, both counsellor and student are confused about the exact nature of the counsellor's role within the college. The confusion is further compounded by the conditions under which many further education counsellors have to function. Where counsellors have professional training, they will be likely to have a clear understanding of the potential difficulties. The student is not alone in having expectations of the counsellor, be they realistic or unrealistic; the college too will have expectations, both explicit and unspoken. Unless the counsellor is able to make an impact on the institution in its totality then their work with students may be in the nature of crisis management.
