Abstract
This study examined the lived experiences of registered guidance counselors in Cavite, focusing on the challenges they encounter, the coping strategies they employ, and how they find meaning in their profession. Guided by a qualitative phenomenological design, criterion sampling was used to select participants, and data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Braun and Clarke’s Reflexive Thematic Analysis was employed in interpreting the data. Findings revealed that counselors face systemic barriers such as inadequate counseling spaces, low compensation, role misconceptions, excessive workloads, and resistance from parents and faculty, all of which are intensified by the shortage of licensed counselors. Despite these constraints, they demonstrated resilience through resourcefulness, time management, self-care practices, collegial support, and collaborative delegation. Counselors also derived meaning from their role as a vocation, from witnessing student transformation, and from their own personal growth. These results show the need for stronger institutional support, clearer role recognition, and wellness initiatives to sustain the counseling profession in Philippine schools.
