Journal of Psychology and Education Counseling (JPEC)
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): JPEC November 2026

Challenges and Barriers to Implementing Multicultural Counseling in Schools

Amelia Juloma Mboes (Universitas Nusa Cendana)
Lidia Jelaus (Universitas Nusa Cendana)
Priska Diana Lisa (Universitas Nusa Cendana)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study aims to examine the various challenges faced in the implementation of multicultural counseling in school settings. The method used was a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), which analyzed five articles from national journals selected according to predetermined criteria. The data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach to identify the nature of these challenges and potential solutions for implementing multicultural counseling. The results of the study indicate that multicultural counseling services still face various obstacles, including limitations in counselors’ competence and cultural sensitivity, weak intercultural communication skills, the emergence of stereotypes and prejudices, a tendency toward counselor encapsulation, and differences in language, dialect, values, and cultural norms between counselors and clients. Additionally, students also experience difficulties adapting, barriers in interpersonal communication, social anxiety, and low self-confidence due to cultural differences. Other barriers are related to institutional factors, such as the lack of a systematically structured multicultural counseling program, limited understanding among guidance counselors regarding cultural diversity, and minimal support from schools, families, and the community. On the other hand, the development of globalization and technology has further expanded the cultural diversity of students, thereby increasing the complexity of counseling services. Research findings indicate that the effectiveness

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jpec

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Environmental Science Social Sciences Other

Description

Focus JPEC focuses on the development of knowledge and practice in counseling, educational psychology, and psychological assessment, using an approach based on empirical research and best practices. Scope JPEC accepts scholarly publications covering, but not limited to, the following topics: - ...