Characteristics of School and Vocational Counseling for Pupils with Special Educational Needs

ABSTRACT: Effective inclusion means following a path of integration of people with disabilities both in school and in society. Counseling families of children with special educational needs with a view to integration becomes a mandatory step in combating school drop out and facilitating social integration. This study examines certain aspects of education for children and young people with special educational needs, trying at the same time to clarify the theoretical context of inclusion and integration in school. It presents examples of good practices and shares insights gained from accumulated experiences to promote the participation of children with special educational needs in learning activities, thereby preventing school drop out. The objective of this study is to emphasize the important role of the teacher counselor, who must develop targeted strategies to address indecision by fostering the child’s ability to choose, make decisions, and seek information. The counseling process focuses on the preventive aspect of affective and behavioral disorders, as well as on problem-solving, personal development, and optimization. By fostering an inclusive environment, this approach aims to support the individual development of children with special educational needs and help them feel welcomed and connected to society. KEYWORDS: special needs, integration, inclusion, adaptation