Effectiveness of Counselling Services in Solving Matrimonial Conflicts and Affiliation Problems in Kinondoni District

The present study examined counselling services and investigated its effectiveness in solving matrimonial conflicts and affiliation problems among clients who attended counselling services at Konondoni social welfare department in the past three months. Specifically, the study identified the types of social problems faced by individuals who sought counselling services at Kinondoni social welfare department, secondary identified types of counselling methods used in counselling individuals, thirdly examine the effectives of counselling service in solving matrimonial conflict and affiliation problems faced by individuals, and lastly identified the key factors contributing to success or failure of counselling services rendered. Qualitative research approach was used. A total of forty seven respondents were covered in the study: forty three clients and four counsellors. Data collection instruments involved semi- structured face to face and telephone interviews and documentary review. The study revealed that majority clients were commonly face with matrimonial conflicts and affiliation problems. The research established that eclectic counselling method was the most commonly used strategy followed by client centred method in counseling cases of matrimonial conflict and affiliation problems. Eclectic method provided the best mixture of ideas and techniques which enabled counsellors to use a variety of tools and counselling approaches. Furthermore, findings indicated that over half of cases of those who received counselling, their problems were solved or they were enable to cope with their problems. The major findings indicated that the key factors contributing to success or failure of counselling services were client characteristics, therapeutic technique, therapist- client relationship social support, and physical environment. Furthermore the study elucidated need for improving the counselling environment in the social welfare department. The study therefore recommended improvement of counselling rooms and other facilities as the services is needed in the society. It is important to make follow up to clients who have been rendered counselling services as a way to improve counselling services. Furthermore regular training is needed to counsellors on counselling skills, methods, and ethics. Also, recruitment of more professional counsellors is needed so as to cope with the increasing number of clients. There is need for the Government to reform the law that enables the couples and families in conflict to solve the problem peacefully. Further studies are recommended to improve eclectic counselling method to response to culturally sensitive matrimonial conflicts and affiliation problems in the society.