Impact of the Extent of Telecounseling Practice on Compassion Fatigue of Filipino Counselors

The global outbreak has profoundly impacted various sectors, compelling them to adapt rapidly to new modes of functioning. In the mental health field, telecounseling has emerged as a crucial service, allowing counselors to continue providing support despite physical distancing measures. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the extent of telecounseling practice and compassion fatigue among Filipino school counselors in Western Visayas. To assess the extent of telecounseling practice, an author-developed Telecounseling Practice Scale was utilized. Compassion fatigue was measured using Stamm’s (2010) Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL Version 5). Results indicated that school counselors had moderate levels of telecounseling practice and compassion fatigue. Significant differences in compassion fatigue levels were observed based on civil status and counselor-student ratio, and a significant correlation was found between telecounseling practice and compassion fatigue. The findings give emphasis to the emotional and psychological challenges counselors face due to prolonged telecounseling exposure, highlighting the necessity of providing support and enhancing the well-being of school counselors in telecounseling environments.