ADVANCING SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGICAL COUNSELING SERVICES IN VIETNAMESE HIGH SCHOOLS: A SYSTEMS-ORIENTED AND EVIDENCE-BASED FRAMEWORK FROM DONG THAP PROVINCE, VIETNAM

Abstract

The growing incidence of psychological and socio-emotional difficulties among adolescents has intensified the need for effective School Psychological Counseling Services (SPCS) in Vietnamese secondary education. This study investigated the current conditions, challenges, and developmental needs of SPCS in four public high schools in Cao Lanh Ward, Dong Thap Province, Vietnam. A mixed-methods design was employed with 712 participants, including students, teachers, and school administrators. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and Pearson correlation, while qualitative interviews explored institutional and professional barriers to counseling implementation.