SOCIAL SCIENCES VS.

APPLIED SOCIAL SCIENCES

What is Social Science?

Social science is the study of people, their relationships, and how they live
and work together in society. It is a branch of science that focuses on human
behavior, cultures, and the way societies function. Unlike physical sciences,
which study the natural world, social science looks at how people interact,
how communities develop, and how institutions shape our lives.

This field includes many subjects, such as history, sociology, psychology,

economics, and political science. Each of these areas helps us understand
different aspects of human life, from individual behavior to global trends.
Social science allows us to learn from the past, improve the present, and
plan for a better future. By studying it, we can find ways to solve social
problems, create better policies, and improve relationships among people.

Applied Social Science: Bridging Theory and Action

Applied Social Science serves as a bridge between understanding society
and actively improving it. It takes the theories, principles, and methods from
fields like sociology, political science, psychology, and economics and applies
them to real-world issues. By studying human behavior, social structures,
and relationships, it helps us find solutions to problems such as poverty,
inequality, mental health, and governance.

What makes Applied Social Science Unique?

Because is its focus on action—it’s not just about studying society but also
about making a difference. Professionals in this field, such as social workers,
counselors, and policy analysts, use their knowledge to create meaningful
change. Whether through advocacy, community development, or
policymaking, Applied Social Science empowers individuals and groups to
build a more just and equitable society.

In a world full of complex social challenges, Applied Social Science reminds

us that understanding is just the first step—what truly matters is how we use
that knowledge to create positive change.

Relationship Between Social Sciences and Applied Social

Sciences
Social Sciences study human behavior, society, and interactions. They focus
on understanding social phenomena through theories and research.

Applied Social Sciences take the knowledge from Social Sciences and use it
to solve real-world problems. Fields like social work, counseling, and
communication apply these concepts to help individuals and communities.

In short, Social Sciences provide knowledge, while Applied Social Sciences

put that knowledge into action to improve society.
 THE DISCIPLINE OF
COUNSELING
Counseling is a professional process where a trained counselor helps
individuals deal with personal, emotional, social, or psychological challenges
through guidance, support, and problem-solving techniques.

Counseling – A process of helping individuals through guidance and

support.

Counselor – A professional who gives advice and support to people facing

challenges.

Counselee – A person receiving counseling and guidance.

COUNSELLING DEFINED IN VARIOUS WAYS:

1. As a Process – A structured approach to solving issues.

Example: A person working with a counselor to set goals and overcome

procrastination.

2. As a Relationship – A bond of trust and understanding between

counselor and client.

Example: A therapist helping a grieving individual cope with loss through

regular sessions.

3. As an Art – Using creativity and adaptability to connect with clients.

Example: A counselor using music therapy to help a teenager express

emotions.

4. As a Science – Applying research-based methods for problem-solving.

Example: A psychologist using behavior modification techniques to help a

child with ADHD.

5. As a Profession – A trained expert providing guidance and support.

Example: A marriage counselor helping couples improve communication and
resolve conflicts.

Goals of Counseling:

1. Facilitates Behavior Change – Helps clients adjust behaviors to achieve

personal growth.

2. Improves Relationships – Enhances the ability to build and maintain

healthy relationships.

3. Enhances Coping Skills – Equips clients with strategies to manage

stress and challenges.

4. Promotes Decision-Making – Guides clients in making informed and

confident choices.

5. Encourages Personal Development – Helps individuals recognize and

reach their full potential.

Scope of Counseling:

Counseling plays a vital role in guiding individuals through various life

challenges. It covers a broad range of areas, including educational
counseling, which helps students with academic concerns and career
planning, and career counseling, which assists individuals in making
informed job and career choices. Family counseling focuses on resolving
conflicts and strengthening relationships, while mental health counseling
supports emotional well-being and psychological health.

Additionally, counseling extends to important life transitions such as

marriage, divorce, retirement, and coping with loss. It provides emotional
support, guidance, and strategies to help individuals navigate difficult
situations and improve their overall quality of life. Ultimately, counseling is
about empowering people to make positive decisions, develop coping skills,
and achieve personal growth.
Counseling is a broad field that involves using psychological theories and
communication skills to help people. It’s not just about giving advice; it’s
about guiding individuals to understand themselves better and make positive
changes in their lives.

There are key principles that make counseling effective:

1. Acceptance – A counselor must accept the client without judgment. This
creates a safe space where the client feels valued.

2. Communication – Honest and open communication builds trust and

ensures that the client’s needs are understood.

3. Empathy – A good counselor understands and shares the client’s feelings,

making them feel heard and supported.

4. Nonjudgement – The counselor avoids making judgments about the

client’s values or choices. This helps the client speak freely.

5. Confidentiality – Whatever the client shares must be kept private. This

trust allows clients to open up about sensitive issues.

6. Individuality – Every client is unique, so counseling should be tailored to

their specific needs.

These values guide counselors in their work and

help ensure clients receive the best support
possible.

1. Autonomy – Clients should be encouraged to make their own choices and

take control of their lives. This builds independence and confidence.

2. Privacy – Counselors must respect a client’s personal boundaries,

creating a safe space for open discussions.
3. Confidentiality – What a client shares should be kept private. This builds
trust and allows clients to speak freely without fear of judgment.

4. Responsibility – Counselors must be accountable for their actions and

decisions, always keeping the client’s best interests in mind.

5. Competence – A good counselor continuously improves their skills and

knowledge to provide effective and professional support.

SUMMARY

 “Counseling is only for major issues or ‘crazy’ people.”

→ This is false. Counseling is for everyone, whether you’re dealing with

stress, life transitions, or just need guidance.

 “Counseling doesn’t help or will make things worse.”

→ Not true! A trained counselor provides support and strategies to help

clients navigate challenges in a healthy way.

 “A counselor is a problem solver.”

→ Counselors don’t give you all the answers—they help you discover
solutions on your own.

 “Counseling is brainwashing.”

→ Counseling is about self-discovery, not manipulation. Clients make their

own choices.

 “Men aren’t in touch with their feelings and won’t benefit from
counseling.”

→ Everyone, regardless of gender, can benefit from expressing emotions and

seeking support.

 “Seeking counseling is a sign of weakness.”

→ In reality, seeking help takes strength and courage. It’s a step toward self-
improvement.

 “Counselors will try to put you on medication.”

→ Counselors do not prescribe medication. Only psychiatrists or doctors can

do that. Counselors focus on talk therapy and emotional support.
THE CLIENTELE AND AUDIENCES
IN COUNSELING
In counseling, we work with two key groups: clientele and audiences.

Clientele: Refers to individuals or groups who actively seek counseling

services. These could be children, adolescents, adults, or families dealing
with emotional, academic, career, or relationship challenges.

Audiences: Are broader communities indirectly affected by counseling. For

example, if a student receives counseling for bullying, their improved
behavior can influence their peers and school environment.

Counselors cater to people across different life stages:

1. Children and Adolescents – They often need emotional support,

behavioral guidance, and academic assistance. A common example is a
student struggling with bullying.

2. Adults – Their needs include career counseling, stress management, and

relationship issues. Professionals facing burnout or life transitions are typical
examples.

3. Families – Struggle with conflict, parenting, and relationship issues.

Counseling helps with communication and support.

4. Groups & Communities – Face crises or social issues. Counseling

focuses on intervention and empowerment.
For children and adolescents, counseling focuses on their rapid emotional
and social development. Since they struggle with identity, self-esteem, and
relationships, methods like play therapy, academic guidance, and behavioral
interventions are used.

For adults, counseling shifts to managing work, relationships, and personal

growth. Adults face stress, mental health concerns, and major life changes,
so therapy includes stress management, career counseling, and couples or
individual therapy.

1. Families:

Face communication issues, conflicts, and transitions. Influenced by culture,

emotions, and finances.

Counseling: Family therapy, parenting workshops.

2. Groups & Communities:

Share common struggles and focus on well-being.

Promote collective support and empowerment.

Counseling: Group therapy, community programs.

SUMMARY:
• Counseling serves individuals, families, and communities.

• Each group has different needs that require specialized approaches.

•Effective counseling provides emotional, social, and psychological support

to help clients.

THE DISCIPLINE OF SOCIAL

WORK
Social work:

1. Helping – Supporting individuals, families, and communities through

tough times.

2. Empowerment – Giving people the tools to improve their own lives.

3. Advocacy – Standing up for those who need a voice.

3. Social Justice – Ensuring fairness, equality, and access to resources.

5. Crisis Intervention – Providing urgent help during emergencies like

abuse or disasters.

6. Case Management – Connecting people to services that meet their

needs.

7. Human Rights – Protecting vulnerable individuals from discrimination

and harm.

8. Welfare – Assisting with food, shelter, and education.

9. Community – Strengthening social bonds and building supportive

networks.

10. Mental Health – Helping people navigate emotional and psychological

struggles.

DEFINITION OF SOCIAL WORK:

Social work is a profession that helps people deal with challenges in their
lives. It focuses on understanding human needs and using knowledge,
values, and skills to find solutions. Social workers step in when people
struggle with personal or social issues, helping them improve their lives and
create better conditions for everyone.
Social functioning refers to how well a person’s abilities and needs match
with what society expects from them. It’s about how individuals interact with
their environment—whether at home, in the community, or at work—and
whether they can meet their responsibilities and personal goals. When
there’s a mismatch, social work helps bridge the gap, supporting people in
overcoming difficulties and improving their well-being.

Understanding Social Work and Social Services

What is Social Work?

Social work is a profession that focuses on helping people improve their lives.
It is both a practice and an academic field that aims to bring positive change,
promote fairness, and empower individuals and communities. Social workers
help people overcome challenges, fight for human rights, and create a more
just society.

In the Philippines, social work is legally recognized under Republic Act No.
4373, also known as “The Social Work Law.” It defines social work as a
profession that provides organized services to strengthen relationships
between individuals and their environment, ensuring both personal and
societal well-being.

What is Social Service?

Social service refers to programs and efforts designed to support

individuals, families, and communities, especially those in need. These
services provide assistance, resources, and protection to vulnerable groups,
such as children, the elderly, and people in crisis. Social services are usually
offered by the government, NGOs, and professional social workers to help
improve the quality of life for many.

In simple terms, social work and social services go hand in hand—social

workers use their skills and knowledge to deliver social services, making sure
that people receive the help they need to live better, healthier lives.
What Makes Social Work Different?

Social work is unique from other helping professions because it focuses on

both the individual and their environment. It recognizes that a person’s well-
being is shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors. Unlike
professions that primarily address personal issues (such as psychology) or
focus only on social systems (such as sociology), social work bridges the gap
by addressing both personal and systemic challenges.

Core Values and Principles of Social Work

Social work is all about helping people, making sure they are treated fairly,
and improving their quality of life. The profession is built on strong values
and principles that guide how social workers interact with individuals,
families, and communities. Let’s break these down in a more conversational
way.

1. Service – At the heart of social work is the desire to help people in

need. This means going beyond personal gain and making sure those
who are struggling get the support they need.

Example: Think about a social worker assisting a homeless family in finding

shelter, food, and employment opportunities. They put the family’s needs
first and work to improve their situation.

2. Social Justice – Social workers advocate for people who face

discrimination, inequality, and oppression. They push for laws and
policies that protect vulnerable groups.

Example: A social worker might fight for better access to education for
children in low-income communities, ensuring they get the same
opportunities as others.

3. Respect for the Inherent Worth and Dignity of People— Every

person, no matter their background or circumstances, deserves to be
treated with respect. Social workers make sure that people’s voices are
heard and their rights are protected.

Example: Helping individuals with disabilities lead independent lives by

providing the right resources and support.
 4. Importance of Human Relationships – People rely on relationships
for emotional and social support. Social workers help strengthen these
bonds to create healthier communities.

Example: A social worker helping a struggling family rebuild trust through

counseling and communication exercises.

5. Integrity – Trust is crucial in social work. Professionals must act with

honesty, maintain confidentiality, and follow ethical guidelines

Example: If a client shares personal information, the social worker must keep
it private unless there’s a risk of harm.

6. Competence – Social work is constantly evolving, and professionals

need to stay updated on best practices. This ensures they can provide
the best help possible.

Example: A social worker attending workshops on mental health to better

assist clients dealing with anxiety and depression.

7. Values about People—This means respecting each person’s right to

make their own choices and supporting their personal growth. Social
workers help people become more independent and improve their
lives.

Example: If someone is struggling with addiction, a social worker encourages

them to seek help and make positive changes without forcing them.

8. Values about Society—Social workers believe in fairness and equal

opportunities for everyone. They work to improve communities and
make sure people have access to the help they need.

Example: A social worker might push for better housing programs for
homeless families so they can have a safe place to live.

9. Values about Professional Behavior—Social workers must act

responsibly and ethically. They treat people fairly and keep their
personal information private.

Example: When working with two clients in conflict, a social worker remains
neutral and does what’s best for both, without taking sides.

PURPOSES AND FUNCTION OF SOCIAL WORK:

 1. Enhancing Well-Being—Social workers help people improve their
quality of life by providing support, guidance, and resources.

Example: Helping a struggling family find financial aid and counseling.

2. Empowering Individuals and Communities—They encourage

people to be independent and strong in facing life’s challenges.

Example: Teaching job skills to unemployed individuals so they can support

themselves.

3. Advocating for Social Justice—Social workers fight against unfair

treatment and promote equal rights for everyone.

Example: Standing up for people with disabilities to get fair job opportunities.

4. Providing Support and Intervention—They assist those facing

serious problems like abuse, poverty, or mental health issues.

Example: Helping a child escape an unsafe home and get proper care.

5. Strengthening Social Relationships—They work to improve

relationships within families, workplaces, and communities.

Example: Helping parents and teenagers communicate better to reduce

conflicts.

6. Promoting Human Rights—Social workers make sure people are

treated with dignity and respect, no matter their background.

Example: Defending a homeless person’s right to receive healthcare.

7. Facilitating Access to Resources—They connect people with

services that can improve their lives, like healthcare, education, and
housing.

Example: Assisting a single mother in finding affordable childcare and

housing.

FUNCTION OF SOCIAL WORK:

1. Preventive Function – This is all about stopping problems before they

start. For example, schools might have anti-bullying programs to prevent
bullying, or communities might run mental health awareness campaigns to
help people take care of their well-being before serious issues develop.
2. Remedial Function – This focuses on fixing problems that already exist.
If someone is struggling with addiction, counseling and rehabilitation
programs can help them recover. It’s about finding solutions to challenges
people are already facing.

3. Developmental Function – This works on making society better by

creating programs and policies that improve lives. For instance, a community
might start a job training program to help people gain skills and find work,
which leads to long-term improvement.

4. Protective Function – This ensures the safety of those who are

vulnerable, like children, elderly people, or disaster victims. Services like
child protection agencies step in when kids are in danger, and emergency aid
helps people during natural disasters.

5. Educational Function – Social workers also teach people about

important social issues. They might hold seminars on domestic violence
awareness or train individuals on life skills like budgeting or parenting.

6. Advocacy Function – This is about standing up for people who might not
be able to defend themselves. Social workers speak on behalf of
marginalized groups, such as fighting for better disability rights or equal
opportunities for women.

7. Rehabilitative Function – This helps people get back on their feet after
tough times. Former inmates, recovering addicts, or people who have been
homeless might need support to reintegrate into society, and social workers
provide programs to assist them.

THE GOALS ON CARING, CURING AND CHANGING:

-Morales and Sheafor (1983) specified three (3) distinguishing goals of social
work namely: caring, curing and changing.

The Goal of Caring

Caring is at the core of social work—it’s all about looking after the well-being
of individuals and communities. It’s not just about meeting basic needs; it’s
about ensuring comfort, dignity, and an overall better quality of life. This
applies to different environments, such as prisons, nursing homes, and
juvenile facilities. For example, in prisons, caring means making sure inmates
have access to proper rehabilitation programs, mental health support, and
humane living conditions. In nursing homes, it involves improving services so
that the elderly receive compassionate and respectful care. The goal of
caring is to uplift people, especially those in vulnerable situations, and
provide them with a sense of security and dignity.

The Goal of Curing

Curing in social work means helping people overcome difficulties in their
social lives. It focuses on providing therapy and interventions for individuals,
families, or groups struggling with emotional, behavioral, or psychological
issues. There are many techniques used to help people, including popular
methods like family therapy, behavior modification, and reality therapy,
which help individuals change negative patterns and improve their
relationships. There are also less common approaches like Rolfing therapy (a
deep tissue massage technique to improve posture and movement),
psychomotor therapy (using physical movement to address emotional
issues), and psychodrama (acting out personal experiences to gain insight
and healing).

1. Transactional Analysis (TA) – This therapy looks at how people interact

(or “transact”) with each other.

2. Reality Therapy – This approach says that people’s problems come from
the choices they make, not from mental illnesses. It focuses on taking
responsibility for actions and making better choices to meet personal needs.

3. Gestalt Therapy – This therapy emphasizes self-awareness and the

present moment. Instead of focusing on past experiences, it helps people
understand their feelings and actions in the here and now to gain more
control over their lives.

4. Rolfing – This is a physical therapy that deeply manipulates the body’s

connective tissues to relieve tension and bring the body back into balance. It
may help with both physical and emotional stress.
5. Psychomotor Physical Therapy – This approach connects the mind and
body, using physical activities to help people improve awareness and well-
being.

6. Psychodrama Therapy – Here, people act out past experiences or

traumas as a way to process emotions and find healing. It’s like using theater
as therapy.

The Goal of Changing

Social workers aim for social reform, meaning they actively work to change
unfair systems that lead to problems like:Poverty, Environmental destruction,
Social disintegration

These issues are made worse by political, economic, and social structures.
Social workers step in to support the poor and needy and push for better
policies and systems to improve lives.

PROFESSIONAL AND
PRACTITIONERS IN SOCIAL WORK

ROLES OF SOCIAL WORKERS:

1. Facilitator – A social worker helps people talk about their problems in

groups, whether in a workshop, meeting, or discussion. They make sure
everyone has a chance to speak, share ideas, and find solutions together.

2. Mediator – Sometimes, people don’t get along, whether it's family

members, neighbors, or groups in the community. A social worker steps in as
a neutral person to help them communicate better and solve their
disagreements peacefully.
3. Mobilizer – When there’s a big issue in the community, like a disaster or
the need for better services, a social worker brings people together to take
action. They help organize events, raise awareness, and push for positive
changes.

4. Advocate – Many people, especially those who are vulnerable or

struggling, may not have a voice in society. Social workers speak up for
them, fight for their rights, and work to change unfair rules or policies that
affect their lives.

Functions of Social Workers

1. Consultancy for Problem-Solving – Social workers help people find

solutions to personal and social issues. They guide individuals and
communities through challenges and help them make better decisions.

2. Resource Management – They connect people to resources like food

assistance, housing, healthcare, and financial aid. They ensure that those in
need get the support available.

3. Education – Social workers educate clients and communities about their

rights, available services, and how to improve their situations. They also train
other professionals in social work practices.

Roles of Social Workers:

•Enabler – Helps people become independent by supporting them in finding

their own solutions.

•Facilitator – Brings people together to discuss problems and create action

plans.

•Planner – Develops strategies and programs to improve social conditions.

•Colleague/Monitor – Works alongside other professionals and ensures

social work practices are ethical and effective.

•Broker/Advocate – Acts as a bridge between people and resources,

ensuring that their needs are met and their voices are heard.
•Convenor/Mediator – Helps resolve conflicts between individuals or
groups.

•Activist – Fights for social change and justice.

•Catalyst – Encourages people and communities to take action and improve

their situations.

•Teacher – Educates individuals and groups about social issues.

•Trainer – Teaches other professionals or staff members to improve their

skills.

•Outreach Worker – Reaches out to people in need, especially vulnerable

groups, and provides help.

•Researcher/Scholar – Studies social problems and finds new ways to

solve them.

Actions Taken by Social Workers:

•Empower people – Help individuals develop skills to solve their own

problems.

•Improve organizations – Help organizations become better at serving

communities.

•Create policies and programs – Work with governments and agencies to

design support systems.

•Mentor and guide – Support new social workers and professionals in

learning their roles.

•Connect people to resources – Find the right services for those in need.

•Bring people together – Organize meetings and discussions for problem-

solving.

•Promote change – Encourage communities to take action against social

issues.

•Work with different professionals – Team up with doctors, teachers, and

others to provide better support.
••Identify at-risk groups – Find people who need help and provide
education.

•Train employees – Help social workers and staff improve their skills.

•Raise awareness – Share information about social problems and available

help.

•Conduct research – Study social issues to find better solutions.

Knowledge Required for Social Work:

Understanding people and communities – Knowing how individuals and

groups behave in different situations.

Social policies and welfare – Understanding laws and programs that help
people in need.

Counseling skills – Knowing how to talk to and support people effectively.

Cultural awareness – Respecting and understanding different cultures and

backgrounds.

Competencies (Skills) of Social Workers:

Ethics and professionalism – Following social work values, principles, and

rules to help people fairly and respectfully.

Skills of a Social Worker (What They Do)

1. Active Listening & Communication – Social workers listen carefully to

people’s problems and make them feel heard and understood. This helps
build trust and strong relationships.
2. Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking – They analyze situations, identify
the root of the problem, and come up with solutions that best help their
clients.

3. Case Management & Resource Linking – They help people get the
services they need, like housing, healthcare, or financial aid, by connecting
them to the right programs.

4. Mediation & Conflict Resolution – Social workers step in to help resolve

disagreements between family members, coworkers, or community
members.

5. Advocacy & Policy Influence – They stand up for people’s rights and
push for changes in laws or policies to make society fairer for everyone.

Values of a Social Worker (What They Believe In):

1. Service – Social workers are dedicated to helping people in need.

2. Social Justice – They fight against discrimination and work to make

society more equal.

3. Dignity & Worth of Individuals – They respect every person, no matter

their background or struggles.

4. Importance of Human Relationships – They help people build stronger

bonds with their families and communities.

5. Integrity & Competence – They always act honestly, professionally, and

continue learning to improve their work.

Different Areas of Social Work

1. Substance Abuse & Addiction Social Work

•Helps people struggling with drug and alcohol problems.

•Provides counseling, rehab programs, and teaches ways to prevent relapse.

•Works in hospitals, rehab centers, and community outreach programs.

2. Social Work in Aging and Gerontology

•Supports elderly people with their health, money, and social needs.
•Helps families take care of their aging loved ones.

•Works in nursing homes, hospices, and senior care centers.

3. Child & Family Social Work

•Protects children from abuse and neglect while keeping families strong.

•Helps with foster care, adoption, and parenting support.

•Works in schools, child welfare agencies, and community centers.

4. Justice and Corrections Social Work

•Helps people who have committed crimes turn their lives around and
become productive members of society.

•Supports crime victims and makes sure they get fair treatment.

•Works in places like prisons, juvenile centers, and courts.

5. Developmental Disabilities Social Work

•Assists people with physical or intellectual disabilities.

•Helps them find resources, gain independence, and get the support they
need.

•Works in schools, group homes, and disability support organizations.

6. Employment and Occupational Social Work

•Helps workers deal with job-related problems like stress, discrimination, or

job loss.

•Provides career advice, job training, and placement support.

•Works in company HR departments, career centers, and labor unions.

7. Healthcare Social Work

•Supports patients dealing with illnesses by providing emotional and social

help.

•Helps patients understand their medical options and access treatment.

•Works in hospitals, clinics, and rehab centers.

8. Mental Health and Clinical Social Work

•Provides therapy for people struggling with mental health challenges.

•Helps individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and other disorders.

•Works in private practices, hospitals, and mental health clinics.

9. International Social Work

•Focuses on global issues like poverty, human rights, and disaster relief.

•Works with refugees, humanitarian groups, and non-profit organizations.

•Aims to bring social justice and better living conditions worldwide.

10. Management and Administration in Social Work

•Runs social work programs and organizations.

•Handles budgets, policies, and supervises other social workers.

•Works in government offices, non-profits, and community programs.

11. Policy and Planning Social Work

•Works to change laws and policies to improve social welfare.

•Researches social issues to find better solutions for communities.

•Works in government, research organizations, and advocacy groups.

Ethical Responsibilities to Clients:

•Respect for Dignity and Worth – Treat all clients fairly and ensure they
are valued as individuals.

•Confidentiality – Keep clients' personal information private unless legally

required to share it.

•Self-Determination – Help clients make their own choices without

pressure or judgment.

•Cultural Competence – Respect different cultures and provide services

that fit each client’s background.

•Avoid Harm and Dual Relationships – Keep clear professional

boundaries and avoid situations where personal and professional interests
conflict.

Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues:

•Professional Respect – Treat coworkers fairly and professionally.

•Collaboration – Work together with other professionals to give the best
support to clients.

•Addressing Unethical Conduct – Speak up if a colleague is acting

unethically.

•Support Guidance – Help and mentor new social workers as they learn the
job.

Ethical Responsibilities in Practice Settings:

1. Follow Organizational Policies – Social workers should follow the rules

and guidelines of the place they work, making sure they provide services in a
responsible and legal way.

2. Efficient Use of Resources – They should use resources wisely, ensuring

that help is given fairly to those who need it most.

3. Promote a Positive Work Environment – Social workers should

encourage fairness, honesty, and ethical behavior among their colleagues.

4. Advocate for Just Policies – They should support changes that make
their workplace better and improve the quality of services provided to
clients.

Ethical Responsibilities as Professionals:

1. Integrity and Honesty – Social workers should always be truthful and

open in their work, building trust with clients and colleagues.

2. Continuous Learning – They should stay updated with new research,

laws, and best practices to improve their skills and knowledge.

3. Competence – Social workers should only provide services they are

trained for and always look for ways to grow professionally.

4. Commitment to Ethical Standards – They must follow the core values

of social work, such as respect, fairness, and helping others.

Ethical Responsibilities to the Social Work Profession:

1. Contribute to the Field – Social workers should help improve the
profession by doing research, attending training, and sharing knowledge.

2. Mentorship – They should guide and support new social workers, helping
them learn and grow in their careers.

3. Promote Ethical Social Work Practices – They should speak up for fair
and ethical policies within their profession.

4. Defend Professional Standards – Social workers should protect the

reputation of their field by ensuring that ethical and professional standards
are maintained.

PROFESSIONAL AND
PRACTITIONERS IN COUNSELING

COUNSELING
• A profession that allows to help others manage their responses to life’s
challenges

• A career that provides you an opportunity to assists others in developing

their potentials and to encourage personal growth and learning.

PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS & INFORMAL HELPERS:

Professional counselors:

• Expected to maintain a high degree of objectivity in doing their job. To do

this, effectively, they must not have a personal involvement with their client.

•They are guided by rules and regulations (Code of Ethics).

• They perform their duties and responsibilities according to the standards

set by the law.

•Counselors use strategies & techniques to promote the client’s personal

growth and development.
(1) They have acquired body of knowledge, skills, or competencies through
formal and specialized training.

(2) They are guided by standards of professional practice and laws.

(3) They are formally identified as members of the helping profession,

competent in promoting growth and personal change in their clients.

Informal helpers:

• They may provide assistance to people who are personally related to them

•May help people as encouraged by their personal rules.

• They may avoid confrontation or contradicting statements of the

counselee-during the the counseling process to preserve their friendship or
personal relationship with the counselee.

•They are not formally equipped with standardized strategies or approaches.

Usually, they rely on providing advice or tips they feel suitable.

ROLES AND FUNCTIONS OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR:

“Professional school counselors do not take rigid and static set of functions in
the educational system. This means that professional counselors perform
their roles in a continuous state of transformation in response to the current
challenges.

Therefore, professional counselors function as follows:

1. Providers of individual and group counseling services.

2. Developmental classroom guidance specialists.

3. Leaders and advocates of academic success.

4. Career developmental specialists.

5. Agents of diversity and multiculturalism.

6. Advocates of students with special needs and students-at-risk.

7. Advocates of a safe school environment.

8. School and community collaboration specialists.

9. Counselors also collaborate with mental health practitioners when a

student needs referral.

ALLIED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS:

• PSYCHOLOGIST

• PSYCHIATRIST

• NEUROLOGIST

• SOCIAL WORKER

CHARACTERISTICS OF A PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR:

1. EMPATHY

2. ACCEPTANCE

3. GENUINENESS

4. SELF-AWARENESS

5. CULTURAL COMPETENCE

6. OPEN-MINDEDNES

7. INTEGRITY

8. COMPETENCE

9. PROBLEM SOLVING-SKILLS & CREATIVITY

10. EMBRACING A PERSPECTIVE OF WELNESS

COMPETENCIES OF A TRANSFORMATIVE COUNSELOR:

•ESTABLISHING RAPPORT

•BASIC ATTENDING SKILLS

Sitting across the counselee

Adopting an Open posture during the counseling session Leaning at times
toward the counselee Maintaining Eye contact, but not necessarily staring at
the counselee being Relaxed or the ability to be composed and confident
during the session

•Observational Skills

Guindon (2011) types of nonverbal expression

1. Physical Apperance

2. Personal space

3. Voice

4. Facial expression

5. Body language

6. Sudden change in behavior

•Basic Responding/Listening Skills

Skills that allow effective communication

1. Use of Minimal Encouragers

2. Restatement and Paraphrasing

3. Reflection of feelings

4. Summarization

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION:

1. School Counseling

2. Mental Health or Clinical Counseling

3. Rehabilitation Counseling

4. Industrial Counseling

5. Marriage & Family Counseling

6. Private practice

7. Community Counseling.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS:

1. Elementary and High School Counselor

2. College counselors

3. Teaching in the Academe

4. Workshop Facilitator

5. Career Counselors

6. Community Counselors

7. Marriage & Family Counselors

7. Substance Abuse Counselors

8. Rehabilitation Counselors

9. Researcher

PROFESSIONAL ETHICAL PRINCIPLES IN GUIDANCE & COUNSELING:

1. CONFIDENTIALITY

2. CLIENT WELFARE

3. INFORMED CONSENT

4. RELATIONSHIP WITH CLIENTS

5. PROFESSIONALISM

VALUING RIGHTS OF INDIVIDUALS,PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES &

ACCOUNTABILITY OF COUNSELORS:

1. Respecting the rights & dignity of every human person

2. Respecting the client's rights as self-governing individual

3. Being committed to the client's well-being

4. Being fair to all clients by providing equal opportunity to all who availed
the counseling service.

5. Enhancing the quality of their professional knowledge and application.

6. Being responsive to the society.

1. Providers of individual and group counseling services.

2. Developmental classroom guidance specialists.

3. Leaders and advocates of academic success.

4. Career developmental specialists.

5. Agents of diversity and multiculturalism.

6. Advocates of students with special needs and students-at-risk.

7. Advocates of a safe school environment.

8. School and community collaboration specialists.

9. Counselors also collaborate with mental health practitioners when a

student needs referral.