Abstract:
This study explored the preparedness of trainee counsellors at the University of
Education, Winneba (UEW) to work effectively with LGBTQI clients. The study
employed phenomenological research design. The population of this study comprised
2021/2022 academic year Mphil Counselling Psycholgy students at the Winneba
campus. Homogeneous purposive sampling technique was employed to select 8
participants for the study. A semi-structured interview guide was the data collection
instrument. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis procedures. It was found that,
trainee counsellors held varying views about LGBTQI individuals with majority of
them demonstrating negative attitudes. Trainee counsellors largely demonstrated their
unpreparedness to work with LGBTQI clients. Adaptation of empathetic skills and
understanding of client’s needs were among the means to ensure ethical bracketing in
working with LGBTQI clients. Trainees’ cultural and religious values were threatened
in their work with LGBTQI clients. Therefore it is recommended that, UEW
counsellor education program at the graduate level incorporate affirmative therapy
into their training module. In addition the, government of Ghana must support
stakeholders within the counsellor training instituitions by allocating research funding
specifically dedicated to LGBTQI mental health.
Description:
A thesis in the Department of Counselling Psychology, Faculty of
Applied Behavioural Sciences in Education, submitted to the School of
Graduate Studies in partial fulfillment
of the requirement for the award of the degree of
Master of philosophy
(Counselling Psychology)
in the University of Education, Winneba
APRIL, 2024
