<![CDATA[This study examines the application of cognitive restructuring techniques through group counseling to improve Self-Perceived Employability among students at SMKN 1 Wajo. The objectives of this study were to: (1) identify the level of students' Self-Perceived Employability; (2) describe the implementation of cognitive restructuring techniques in improving Self-Perceived Employability; and (3) determine the effectiveness of cognitive restructuring techniques in enhancing Self-Perceived Employability. This study employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design. The population consisted of 46 eleventh-grade students at SMKN 1 Wajo who were identified as having low Self-Perceived Employability. The sampling technique used was proportional random sampling, resulting in a sample of 20 students divided into two groups: 10 students in the experimental group and 10 students in the control group. Data collection techniques included observation and the administration of a Self-Perceived Employability scale. Data analysis was conducted using parametric statistics through an independent sample t-test. The results showed that: (1) students' Self-Perceived Employability was initially at a low level, characterized by maladaptive thinking related to work readiness, low self-confidence, and social pressure; (2) the implementation of cognitive restructuring techniques was carried out through six stages, namely identification of irrational thoughts, challenging irrational thoughts, replacing irrational thoughts with rational thoughts, practicing rational thinking in real-life situations (coping thoughts), implementation of new behaviors, and self-reflection; and (3) after the intervention, the experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in Self-Perceived Employability compared to the control group, with a significance value of 0.001 (alpha <= 0.05). The findings of this study demonstrate that cognitive restructuring techniques are effective in improving vocational high school students' Self-Perceived Employability.]]>
