Students with Disabilities: Practical Information for School Counselors in Turkey

Abstract

In Turkey, there is a lack of literature that is focused on providing school counselors working in mainstream schools with practical information about working with students with disabilities, despite the research indicating a need in this regard. This article was thus written with the aim of helping school counselors in Turkey better assist students with disabilities by providing them with current and practical information about working with such students. Another objective of this article was to present a comparative perspective for counselors and other readers who are interested in students with disabilities and inclusive education in other countries. Following a brief overview of common challenges experienced by students with disabilities and the importance of disability legislation, a description of school counselor roles pertaining to students with disabilities is provided. Information is also provided on interacting with students with disabilities and disability etiquette, increasing student respect and sensitivity to people with disabilities in schools, and working with parents, teachers, and school administrators.