Counselling needs of challenged children: Experience of special education teachers in Rivers State of Nigeria

Abstract

To study specifically intends to identify the various challenges experienced by the physically challenged and contributes to knowledge in the aspect of assisting them cope with their situation. The researchers observed that counsellors and therapists are not found in most schools for the physically challenged in Rivers State. The study tried to find out the counselling needs of these children, their problems and emotions, the way they express these and the ways in which the counsellors can bring interventions. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. Extensive literature review was carried out. A descriptive case study research design was used. The population of the study consists of students, teachers, workers and helpers in special education schools and centres in the state. The percentage method of data analysis was used to rate the relevant factors studied. The research findings included the following needs of the population of the children, their problems and how these problems are vented, as well as how counselling can bring out helping interventions. Relevant conclusions and recommendations were also made.