Study of school counselors’ perceptions on their professional role

Despite the developed movement of guidance and counseling programs in Iranian schools over the past 50 years, the professional status of counselors in schools is not optimal. This study aimed to investigate was conducted the perception of school counselors from their professional role, using qualitative method and theme analysis of type. In this study, 9 school counselors were selected using purposives and snow ball sampling method. Data collected from semi-structured interviews were analyzed, using Brown and Clark theme analysis method. According to the results obtained, four main themes were obtained which include; professional role functions, role facilitators, role ambiguity and role confusion. The correct and effective perception of school counselors from their professional role will lead to their greater effectiveness and comprehensive cooperation with teachers, principals and families in order to promote the development of students. The result of this awareness will be achieved successfully in the areas of academic, professional and personal/social development areas of students