The impact of counselling services at a small community college : multiple perspectives

This two part report describes a counselling internship and research project carried out at the College of the North Atlantic, Corner Brook campus, in the spring semester of 1998. -- Prior to the commencement of the internship, the intern in collaboration with her supervisor and primary field supervisor, set realistic, obtainable goals. Part One of the report describes activities undertaken to reach these goals. These goals were aimed at improving counselling skills and gaining experience. -- One goal was to complete a research study related to the placement. The research consisted of a survey of students' perceptions of, use of, and satisfaction with counselling services offered at the College of the North Atlantic. Interviews were also conducted with student services personnel to collect data related to role descriptions and program planning to meet student needs. The study found that 83% of students surveyed were aware that counselling services were available, 29% had used the services and the services with the highest satisfactory ratings were Academic Performance and Study Skills and Program/Resource Information. Structured interviews with counsellors and other members of the student services team produced agreement that all services of the Student Services Department should be promoted to students and faculty. The research is discussed in detail in Part Two of this report