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The struggle to distinguish a clear professional identity has been an ongoing issue for counselling psychology. In Australia, this struggle has been associated with discrepancies between the definition and competencies of counselling psychologists. This is further exacerbated by the overlap between clinical and counselling psychologists' scopes of practice. This research contributes to the ongoing discussion surrounding the similarities and differences between clinical and counselling psychology. A web-based survey was distributed to Australian counselling psychologists (n = 290) seeking information regarding respondents' demographics and their perceptions of the similarities and differences between clinical and counselling psychology. Reflexive thematic analysis generated three key themes: 1) overlap in the scope of practice and competencies of clinical and counselling psychologists; 2) the philosophy of counselling psychology; and 3) the negative impact of the Better Access scheme on counselling psychology. These findings indicated that despite overlap across core competencies, counselling psychologists perceive they are a distinct area of practice to clinical psychology. In identifying counselling psychologists' perceptions of the similarities and differences between the two areas of practice endorsement, this study has the potential to clarify scopes of practice and perceived competencies. What is already known about this topic: Professional identity has been identified as an issue for Australian counselling psychologists. A lack of clarity exists over counselling psychology's similarities and differences with clinical psychology. No prior comparisons of similarities and differences between the two areas of practice endorsement have been published with Australian psychologists. What this topic adds: Participants perceive an overlap in the competencies and scope of practice of clinical and counselling psychologists. Counselling psychologists perceive a unique philosophy and orientation to practice. External factors, such as funding schemes, have negatively impacted on public understanding and recognition of counselling psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As any change must begin somewhere, it is the single individual who will experience it and carry it through.' (Tweeted by C.G. Jung Foundation, 16 May 2016) Content & Focus: In this editorial, we voice the unspoken and illuminate the subtle expressions of 'race' discrimination, in an effort to amend and repair our relationship with 'race' within a profession we are immensely proud of and that which forms a part of our identities. As individual practitioners, we desire a shift in our continued professional development and a true recognition of the visible but hidden phenomenon of 'race'. We long for legitimacy and a lifelong ideal where, although issues may exist, we are able to experience, dissect, learn, and disseminate knowledge. We want counselling psychology to actively partake in the dialogue around race; and be a driving force to carry through advocacy for our clients and for ourselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the question of how counselling psychology might move forward into the future. It argues that, for many counselling psychologists, the defining feature of our profession lies in a humanistic value-base; and that, to move forward, we need to look at how that could be more fully actualised. The paper argues that this value-base is most succinctly expressed in Levinas's concept of 'Welcoming the Other,' and it proposes five ways in which this ethic might be taken forward: developing our capacity to see beyond diagnoses, enhancing our responsiveness, focusing more fully on our client's intelligibility, taking a lead in giving psychology away, and developing our evidence base. The paper concludes by suggesting that the key issue is not the survival of counselling psychology as a profession; but the survival, development and proliferation of this value-base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the area of addiction, Canada has been in a public health crisis since 2016. Addiction takes a toll on an individual's self-worth and identity. In this narrative literature review, the distinct nature of spirituality was addressed. Next, individualized conceptualizations of spirituality were outlined. Subsequently, the importance of fellowship in addiction recovery was detailed. Next, the significance of being of service was presented. Meaningful and authentic spirituality were discussed in the context of recovery identity. Lastly, spirituality as a personal journey is described. A narrative literature review of 70 manuscripts published between 1999 and 2021 was undertaken to determine multiple approaches to treating addiction recovery in the context of spiritual development. An understanding of spirituality can inform counsellors regarding spiritual development in addiction recovery. Implications for counselling include a roadmap to support clients developing an individualized spiritual connection and operating as a functional system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to university is a process that presents young adults with several challenges in adaptation, especially students with disabilities. The current study investigated the differences in adaptation and academic performance between students with and without disabilities and further examined these differences among students with disabilities. Additionally, we explored the role of academic support for students with disabilities' adaptation and academic performance, as well as their perceptions of a proposed specialised package of counselling psychology interventions. The sample consisted of 127 students with disabilities and 127 without disabilities, aged 18–24 years. Results revealed that students with disabilities reported a lower GPA and adaptation than students without disabilities. Additionally, differences among students with disabilities were observed only in terms of GPA, according to their disability type, existence of comorbidity and type of exam accommodations. Interestingly, no differences were found in GPA or adaptation between students with disabilities who utilised psychological therapy and those who did not. Finally, adaptation scores, but not GPA, were higher for students with disabilities who were positive in receiving a specialised package of counselling psychology interventions. The findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature and future considerations of counselling psychology's role in support of students with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context & focus: The Division of Counselling Psychology (DCoP) states a commitment to diversity, inclusion and non-discriminatory practice throughout the counselling psychology profession, and towards ensuring topics of culture and diversity are ‘mainstream discourse’ within the division (DCoP, 2021). The current paper explores diversity and inclusion, within the context of counselling psychology training; specifically, with regards to the relational aspects of doctoral research supervision, with trainees of colour. Existing evidence regarding the experiences of trainee counselling psychologists of colour are explored and considered against existing models for the task of research supervision. Personal reflections from the author’s own academic practice have been considered to illustrate points raised and to invite the reader to further self-reflection. Conclusion: Anne Lee’s (2008) model, outlining five ‘tasks’ for doctoral research supervision, has been expanded upon, to incorporate a reflective response to issues highlighted within the literature described above. Recommendations are made for future research supervision practice, for educators on counselling psychology training programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite that counselling psychologists represent a substantial group of registered psychologists in South Africa, literature specifically on the sub-speciality within the country is limited. The aim of this scoping review was to provide a comprehensive summary of the literature available on counselling psychology in South Africa and examine the extent to which literature is available from a lifespan or career-stage perspective. Three electronic databases (EBSCOhost, Sabinet®, and PubMed) were searched for articles published between 2000 and 2021. Titles and abstracts were reviewed, and data extracted and synthesised thematically. Of 507 citations identified, 10 met the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that literature on counselling psychology in South Africa is scarce, subject to methodological limitations, and dominated by a small number of authors conducting multiple analyses on the same sets of data. Furthermore, literature on counselling psychologists at key career stages across the professional lifespan is largely missing from the professional discourse. Emphasis is instead placed on counselling psychology as embedded in the sociopolitical history of South Africa, professional identity, the contemporary status of the profession, professional threats and challenges, and the profession's future promise. Our review highlights the need for more empirically informed studies making use of different methodologies, involving multiple authors with diverse backgrounds, tracking employment trends, and soliciting first-person accounts of counselling psychologist's experiences at key career stages. Without doing so, ideas about how best to support and utilise this particular group of practitioners may be misguided, in turn compromising the successful provision of mental health care within the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2022 has witnessed a crescendo of controversial debate in grief and bereavement research, surrounding the inclusion of prolonged grief disorder (PGD) in the revised Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V-TR). Criticisms of the inclusion of PGD focus on the potential for diagnosis narrowing the range of healthy functioning and any treatment gains associated with a PGD diagnosis being outweighed by the risk of pathologising individual differences and diversity in human behaviour (Ben-Zeev et al, 2010). This qualitative research approaches 'stuckness' in grief from a non-pathologising, inductive and curious position that embodies the core, humanistic values of counselling psychology (Cooper, 2009). Four participants who reported feeling stuck in grief were interviewed and the resultant transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The four superordinate themes: (eclipsed by the deceased; the power in powerlessness; the double-edged sword of coping behaviours, and living in purgatory) reveal novel insights into the significance and consequences of living with unresolved dilemmas of grieving. Findings support a meaning reconstruction approach to grief therapy and highlight the negative implications of holding a pathologising, time-limited, stage-based conceptualisation of grief. Implications for practice include combining person-centred therapy with targeted cognitive-behavioral grief interventions that can help to reduce dissonance and address a dependence on avoidance and polarised thinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provided survey data on counselling psychology professionals in New Delhi and compares it to available data on the profession in Punjab, in order to identify areas of similarity and difference. A national portrait of counselling psychology in India requires understanding what characteristics and practices are truly common across the country and what are relatively unique to specific parts of India. Information provided by this study also contribute objective information to help advance program accreditation standards, training curriculum, governmental regulation, and public awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provided survey data on counselling psychology professionals in Punjab, India with the intention of describing the likely manifestation of counselling psychology in this particular state and examine how well it follows national norms and trends outlined in previous research. Data and conclusions consistent between counselling psychology professionals practicing in Punjab in this study and those presented in past national surveys could represent characteristics of the field and its practitioners at the national level (robbedi & therefore justifiable in describing counselling psychology in India generally). Those diverging from national trends can help describe the specific presentation of counselling psychology in Punjab. Data and conclusions provided by this study contribute objective information to inform program accreditation standards, training curriculum, governmental regulation, and public awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a mixed‐methods enquiry into the experience of research supervision among supervisors and supervisees on PhD and professional programmes for psychotherapists and counselling psychologists. What makes constructive versus non‐constructive, unhelpful research supervision on doctoral programmes for therapists? What might supervisors learn from supervisees' experiences of supervision, and vice versa? These questions permeated our online survey (N = 226) which generated 558 comments and 10 subsequent follow‐up interviews analysed by reflexive thematic analysis influenced by narrative research (narrative thematic inquiry). The findings showed, firstly, an unequivocal appreciation of research supervision. In the free text comments, supervisees stressed the value of research experience, empathy and containment. The interviewed supervisees valued trust and broad research knowledge with an exposure to optional approaches. Supervisors emphasised, in turn, the importance of supervisee agency and trust in their own thinking. One particularly illustrative example was when one supervisee described her supervisor as her 'telescope'—helping her to navigate and see far—while a supervisor chose a 'stethoscope' to describe how he regarded it his role to support each student to connect 'inwardly' and build their own relationship with research. The qualitative findings thus suggest a gap in expectations. Common features were, however, also noted, in terms of construing constructive research supervision as 'relational' and based on 'three Cs', namely containment, compassion and clarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims/objectives: In the United Kingdom, there is a growing movement towards including more arts-based interventions within healthcare systems. This study investigated attitudes of counselling psychologists towards using music therapeutically. The aim was to provide preliminary evidence, and inform future research, on the feasibility of including music as an intervention in counselling psychology practice. It was hypothesised that practitioners who personally engaged with music would be more likely to view interventions using music as acceptable. Methodology: The study utilised quantitative survey methodology to collect data from trainee and qualified counselling psychologists practising in the United Kingdom. Forty-three participants completed the survey, which comprised the Music Use and Background Questionnaire (MUSEBAQ; Chin et al., 2018) to assess personal engagement with music across factors of musicianship, musical capacity and motivations for music use, and an acceptability questionnaire. Data was analysed via multiple linear regression. Findings: Analysis indicated that this sample of counselling psychologists was accepting of the prospect of using music with clients. The personal motivations of participants for using music were found to be a significant positive predictor of acceptance. Discussion/conclusions: Participants who were motivated to use music to improve their own wellbeing were significantly more likely to consider music as an acceptable intervention. If music-based interventions are to become more integrated within counselling psychology practice, leadership of this process and training will be important and it suggested that this bias be accounted for in selection criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of telepsychology has become increasingly prevalent in the professional practice of psychology worldwide, particularly so in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Counselling psychology adopts a pluralistic epistemology that values the diversity of perspectives and takes a critical approach to research, theory and intervention, including recognition of the importance of debating the issues and understanding alternative views on telepsychology integration into the clinical practice. The current study sought to explore New Zealand counselling psychologists' views and experiences of using telepsychology. Thematic analysis of seven semi-structured interviews with counselling psychologists identified themes around the perceived benefits and limitations of telepsychology, the fit of this approach with counselling psychology, telepsychology as an adjunct, and the need for training. Findings from this study have contributed to the knowledge base on the use of telepsychology amongst psychologists and in particular counselling psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of a feminist research endeavour that explored multicultural (MC) counselling and social justice (SJ) training experiences from the standpoint of eight culturally non-dominant doctoral students are presented. Participants represented students within the five counselling psychology programs accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association. Specifically, the research aimed to address the following research question: How do counselling psychology doctoral students who self-identify with non-dominant cultural identities perceive their experiences of MC and SJ training? This research adopted a feminist standpoint theory epistemology to guide an interpretative phenomenological analysis to reflect the culturally rich, complex, and situated experiences of participants, while concurrently emphasizing the role that systems of privilege and oppression play in influencing these experiences. Results point to seven superordinate themes, including: (a) MC and SJ are personal and rooted in identity; (b) Instructors-their role and impact; (c) Classmates-a mixed bag; (d) Perceptions of MC and SJ courses; (e) Perceptions of clinical supervision; (f) Systemic engagement with MC and SJ principles; and (g) The emotional and psychological burden of MC and SJ training. Findings are discussed considering sociocultural practices in North America, and MC and SJ training implications are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While an increasingly researched field, most autism research has focused on children and adolescents. Adult-based research remains sparse by comparison, particularly research focussing on those who are nonverbal, or who require alternative communication strategies. The following literature review was conducted while concurrently engaging with the members of autistic community in order to establish research gaps and to include their input in practice. Using search terms including (but not limited to autis*, nonverbal, non-speaking, autis* AND adult*) a number of databases and journals were explored in search of research which included and stemmed from direct autistic input. The literature revealed a gap in research focussing on autistic wellbeing and including the voices of those who are non-speaking, or who use alternative communication strategies. Prompted by this literature review and discussions with a number of autistic adults, a constructivist grounded theory study was proposed by the author and, following ethics approval by Regents University London, has begun data collection. The study aims to explore the experiences of non-speaking autistic adults and how these can guide psychotherapeutic practice. It is hoped that this research will contribute to counselling psychology and wider practice through the conceptualisation of a sensitised model of understanding and working psychotherapeutically with this population group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a larger and more geographically diverse sample than past research, a total of 124 counselling psychologists in India completed a 52-item questionnaire investigating the characteristics of counselling psychology/psychologists in India. Results suggest that the prototypical professional practicing counselling psychology in India could be a Hindu female with a master's degree in general psychology who focuses on remedial/rehabilitative treatment with individual clients. The most common theoretical orientation mentioned was eclectic/integrative. Participants reported being satisfied with counselling psychology as a career and highlighted the need for more supervised practicum, increased public awareness, government-funded jobs, and a nationwide system of regulation and licensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climate change is a growing concern, a multi-dimensional, societal issue affecting our personal lives and the way we engage with clients. There is evidence that people are finding it a matter of anxiety and as such it is increasingly a focus in the therapeutic domain. In order to understand counselling psychology's relationship to climate change, the Executive Committee of the British Psychological Society Division of Counselling Psychology (DCoP) initiated a working group on climate change in the latter part of 2019. This working group had several tasks including a statement about psychology and climate change, and the development of a reference library as a resource for those members who want to better understand the literature. The reference library is available at www.bps.org.uk/sites/www.bps.org.uk/files/Member%20Networks/Divisions/DCoP/Climate%20Change%20-%20Useful%20Reading.pdf. Methodology/methods: This consultation asked a sample of British counselling psychologists about their experience of research, clinical work and other engagement with climate change. Themes were identified. Results/findings: The findings indicate some variation as to what counselling psychologists think and do in relation to climate change; most respondents accepted that counselling psychologists need to be aware of the issue and be able to respond helpfully to clients who bring this focus; some colleagues are already working with this material and many wanted training; some are researching this phenomenon and wanted assistance in funding and disseminating relevant work; and counselling psychologists thought that the Division/wider BPS might usefully make a mission statement, library of resources and offer training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We administered a questionnaire to 78 counselling psychologists who were members of the Section for Counselling Psychology of the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), achieving a 35.4% response rate. There was high satisfaction with the profession and no evidence of gender differences in satisfaction. The sampled counselling psychologists tended to see counselling psychology as moderately different from allied professions with academics and older counselling psychologists reporting the strongest distinctiveness. Respondents were concerned about other professions' increasingly overlapping scope of practice, and thought that the most important next step was advocacy for the profession and its core values. The results of this study can be used to better address training and professional identity issues adversely impacting the field (e.g. counselling psychologists with graduate degrees in subjects other than counselling psychology, trained counselling psychologists who license as other types of professionals), promote the profession, and prepare for future challenges to the field. The results also are relevant for those seeking to increase their knowledge of the profession in other countries to learn ways to better expand and promote the profession in their own country and for those looking to create country-specific surveys to better elucidate the profession in their own country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To introduce this special section about practice-based research and counselling psychology, I first provide a brief overview of the discourses and methods of practice-based research in counselling psychology and psychotherapy fields. I then discuss each of the three papers appearing in this special section, before concluding with some further reflections on the questions and issues raised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islam constitutes the world's second largest religious group. In the United Kingdom (UK), Islam is the second largest religion after Christianity; the largest group of Muslims in the UK is of Pakistani heritage. This qualitative practice-based research study used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to explore the experiences of six second-generation Pakistani Muslim men (SGPMM) who had completed cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) in the UK. Three superordinate themes were generated: "Pre-CBT difficulties," "The process of CBT," and "The interaction between CBT and Islam." This paper elaborates the second theme, "The process of CBT," as the researchers believe it offers the strongest implications for clinical practice and research. This theme captures participants' thoughts and feelings about the process of their therapy, and further consists of four sub-themes: "Experience of therapeutic dialogue: Guide or conversation?" "Experience of matching: Tailor or taboo?" "Benefits of CBT: Simple tools, big impact, enlightenment", and "Limitations of CBT: Problems with language." These findings seek to inform counselling psychologists and services working with SGPMM, to contribute meaningfully to existing research literature, and to encourage future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the practice of counselling psychology and the characteristics of counselling psychologists in India in order to address the lack of empirical research on this population. Sixty-five participants, who self-identified as counselling psychologists, were recruited from various parts of India and administered a 56-item survey. Results showed our participants to be comprised of a relatively new and largely inexperienced workforce with inconsistent levels and types of specialty training in counselling psychology. The vast majority of sampled Indian counselling psychologists practiced without a license. Most focused on treatment using individual counselling as their preferred treatment modality and noted career counselling as central to the profession. Participants reported a dire need for programme accreditation and unified licensure for counselling psychologists. They further cited a lack of practical training and limited public awareness as current challenges for the field in India. Comparisons between counselling psychology in India and other countries were made to better contextualize the results and differentiate the field in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to examine the characteristics of students who withdrew from a university counselling service in northern Italy. Differences found in the socio-demographic characteristics of counselling completers and dropouts and in the scores obtained in questionnaires administered at the outset were analysed. Furthermore, in order to identify reasons for dropping out, a qualitative approach was also used. The results suggest that premature termination is not a unitary phenomenon and that dropouts are a heterogeneous group. It is important not to always consider dropouts as a negative outcome of university counselling services. Additional research on dropouts is needed to help university counselling services to serve students more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing sustainable efforts to address the psychosocial consequences of complex emergencies is often a challenge. There is a limit to what humanitarian efforts can achieve, even with the best of intentions. Locally based tertiary education programmes are needed to provide conceptual frameworks and to develop and sustain professional psychosocial support programmes both during and after the emergency. In Afghanistan, over 30 years of armed conflict and its sequelae have placed an extraordinary emotional strain on every member of the population, affecting not only individuals but also families and communities. The Ministry of Higher Education has therefore taken the initiative to develop two new academic programmes in counselling psychology in its public university system. These programmes are designed to prepare a new generation of academics who can come to understand the specific Afghan context of psychosocial suffering and prepare appropriate interventions to support transformation on an individual and communal level. They are also poised to educate a new generation of qualified practitioners to serve individuals, families, communities and the society itself. In this article, the authors describe a partnership programme with the two universities designed to provide external support for their efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the overall characteristics and beliefs of Canadian counselling psychology doctoral students. An online survey was administered to 43 doctoral students across all Canadian counselling psychology programmes, representing an approximate 26% response rate. Results indicated that the average age of doctoral students in the sample was about 32 years and that the majority were women (about 77% in the sample). Additionally, findings can be taken to suggest that participants were satisfied with their choice of counselling psychology as a career. The doctoral students sampled primarily practised from an integrationist theoretical standpoint and spent very little of their practice time providing formal psychological assessment services or career counselling. Participants generally intervened through individual counselling or psychotherapy and were focused on disorder treatment rather than preventative or developmental services. Curriculum changes that should be considered from the results of this study pertain to the topics of assessment, career counselling, advocacy/media skills, professional identity development and prevention/developmental interventions. The results of this study can also be taken to predict characteristics of the next generation of Canadian counselling psychologists and the future practice of counselling psychology in Canada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The past two decades have seen a surge of interest in the impact of working with trauma survivors on therapists’ psychological well-being. Existing literature assumes that therapists’ strong subjective responses to traumatic material adversely influence the therapeutic process. However, this has not yet been directly researched. Nine counselling psychologists were interviewed regarding the clinical impact of their responses to the disclosure of traumatic material. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis showed that significant challenges are experienced in the use of self in therapy with trauma survivors, including making sense of horrific human actions, negotiating complex interpersonal dynamics and responding to ethical dilemmas in therapy. Results emphasised the importance that therapists attached to the development of their therapeutic use of self in therapy with trauma survivors, the value of learning from others and reaching a place of acceptance and hope when working with trauma survivors. Finally, specific training and development implications are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

There is evidence that the British Psychological Society (BPS) guidelines on working with interpreters are not being applied sufficiently for psychologists to be meeting requirements for anti-discriminatory practice. The present study aimed to explore British Sign Language (BSL)/ English interpreters' subjective experiences, to identify whether psychologists are adhering to guidelines designed to safeguard antidiscriminatory practice and equal access for non-English speakers. An IPA approach to data was adopted, which resulted in three superordinate themes emerging: 1. knowledge and understanding, 2. interpreters' experiencing and 3. development, with eleven supporting subordinate themes. The overall findings of the study suggest that the professional guidelines are not being sufficiently applied and as such interpreters are frequently not being adequately supported in order to provide the most effective interpretation for d/Deaf clients. The current findings are consistent with previous research thus, establishing training and communication between both the interpreting and psychology professions has been advised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the importance placed upon the concept and act of formulation across multiple therapeutic approaches, there is a lack of literature from within the profession of counselling psychology directly on the role, use and practice of formulation, with existing literature predominantly emanating from the related yet distinct therapeutic fields of counselling, psychotherapy, clinical psychology or psychiatry. This, in conjunction with the controversies and lack of consensus on the subject, as well as the demands of the professional and regulatory bodies, have led to this paper. Our aim is to shed light on the role that formulation plays within the profession under the lens of counselling psychology's philosophical underpinnings. More specifically, this systematic review investigates whether formulation may be considered as fact or opinion, whether formulations across therapeutic approaches may be cohesive or divisive within counselling psychology practice; whether formulations should be undertaken inclusively with clients and other professionals or exclusively by the practitioner. Such exploration uncovers key areas of debate and potential considerations for the profession regarding how formulation is approached, utilised in clinical practice and, taught by training institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study investigates how physical disability might impact on the therapeutic training and development of a counselling psychologist. Discourse analysis of extracts and quotations from the author's own reflexive journal reveals some potential implications of a subtly discriminatory environment that perpetuates societal negativity towards the physically disabled. A limited level of understanding of the experience of physical disability amongst peers/colleagues is seen as a potential issue for the profession to address as an ethical obligation for ambassadors of social justice, possibly through specific disability training and reflexive practice. The archetype of the 'wounded healer' in the helping professions is an affirmative perspective by which to view physical disability in training. The physically disabled trainee is encouraged to commit to personal reflexive work to develop his/her understanding of the various possible implications of their physicality on relationships, be they personal or professional. This can ultimately prove the experience of physical disability to be a useful tool which, when used skillfully, has the capacity to increase relational depth in therapeutic relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the impact of counsellor training on emotional intelligence (EI) in 45 undergraduates and 58 postgraduates. Significant improvements were recorded by students on completion of both programmes, suggesting that these were attributable to training which enhanced intra- and interpersonal aspects of emotional functioning. As a group, postgraduates were older than undergraduates, and at the outset of the study, EISAQ scores were comparable; however, at follow-up, undergraduates recorded significantly higher EISAQ scores. Students’ EI was not significantly related to their age, and these findings indicate the potential for effective EI-skills training which is unrelated to quantity of life experiences. It is hoped that this study contributes to a growing quantitative evidence base from which the counselling profession can evaluate its training profile. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper focuses on the evaluation of the therapeutic use of photocards by prisoners and facilitators in a counselling psychology led European project, based on responses to open-ended questionnaires. It is part of a wider project, involving seven partner organisations in six European countries (England, Finland, Greece, Italy, Malta and Romania), which developed and trialled four different approaches to using photography in the context of counselling in prisons. Of the 51 inmates that participated in the project, 48 (94%) completed the questionnaires; of those, 39 (77%) were available for individual analysis due to prison restrictions in one partner organisation only allowing group data. Of those 39, who returned their completed questionnaires, over 92% found the therapeutic use of photographs either very helpful (56.4%) or helpful (35.9%), and the remaining 7.7% described it as average. From the thematic analysis, main themes emerging regarding inmates’ experiences of working with photocards were that it: facilitates emotional expression and sharing; unlocks memories and reconnects with life outside; fosters insight, reflection and self-growth; breaks the monotony of prison life and, overall aids emotional learning. A thematic analysis of 11 psychological therapists/facilitators’ perspectives showed that the use of photocards: gives clients a voice; provides a safe and collaborative frame and a therapeutic relationship; and, provides a useful icebreaker, helpfully overcoming anxieties of both client and psychotherapist/facilitator. Overall, photocards were considered useful as their projective nature can help facilitate prisoners’ strong need for expression in a context where there are limited opportunities and trust is fragile. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Content & Focus: In this editorial, we voice the unspoken and illuminate the subtle expressions of 'race' discrimination, in an effort to amend and repair our relationship with 'race' within a profession we are immensely proud of and that which forms a part of our identities. As individual practitioners, we desire a shift in our continued professional development and a true recognition of the visible but hidden phenomenon of 'race'. We long for legitimacy and a lifelong ideal where, although issues may exist, we are able to experience, dissect, learn, and disseminate knowledge. We want counselling psychology to actively partake in the dialogue around race; and be a driving force to carry through advocacy for our clients and for ourselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content & Focus: This study has investigated how White trainee counselling psychologists construct their experience of training in the area of racial difference, and how they discursively explore and negotiate their own potential for racial prejudice within the therapeutic encounter. This study attempts to offer some insight into the available discourses and their role in the creation of subject positions that the trainees come to occupy. Method: Using the framework of Critical Discursive Psychology (CDP), data from eight interviews and two focus groups have been discursively analysed and are presented as one of an ever-evolving number of possible analyses. The study consisted of four female and four male participants, ranging in age from 28-57 years, who were between their second and fourth year of training. Findings: The present analysis of the data has found that as the participants grapple with their professional identities as counselling psychologists in training, they inhabit one of three seemingly omnipresent discursive fields; 'colour-blindness', 'interculturalism' and 'pluralism'. These fields offer the trainees alternative constructions of practice that are drawn on depending on which professional representation appears to be at stake. In particular, the participants struggle to balance the desire for value free openness associated with a pluralistic approach, alongside a need for professional competency. This professional competency is characterised by a dependence upon generalised understandings of racialised groups as supported by an intercultural perspective. Conclusion: It is argued that the multifaceted epistemological roots of counselling psychology leave much open to interpretation. Discursive fields are occupied interchangeably and supported by ideologies that are seemingly ill-defined. The present study would argue that the result is a basis for practice that runs the risk of alternating between privileging and excluding difference, whilst espousing an apparent integrity presented within the theory of pluralism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Violent political instability in countries such as Syria has seen the worldwide number of forcibly displaced people rise to levels not seen since World War 2, with over 150,000 asylum seekers and refugees hosted in the UK alone (UNHCR, 2015). Despite this figure, many UK residents have only a limited understanding of the experience of seeking asylum. Content & Focus: This article features a reflective account of the author's experience of being in a relationship with an asylum seeker/refugee in the UK. It begins with the author's reflections on the harsh asylum process and encourages those of us with a right to remain in the UK to consider how we would cope in such circumstances. Opportunities for personal and professional development that have arisen from the relationship are outlined, with particular emphasis on the experience of uncertainty and powerlessness. Finally, indignation at the inequalities faced by asylum seekers and refugees is presented as a catalyst for the development of a social justice agenda both within and beyond the therapy room. Conclusion: Being in a romantic relationship with an asylum seeker/refugee offers a unique vantage point to learn about the asylum process in depth. Furthermore, even such overtly challenging experiences can be transformed into opportunities for personal and professional growth, including the development of a social justice agenda in our counselling psychology practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article critically explores the assumptive frameworks underpinning current psychopathological conceptualisations of paranoid/persecutory delusions, which position such experiences as false and meaningless phenomena. An existential-phenomenological reconceptualisation is provided as an alternative formulation that allows for recapturing the contextual, relational and subjective nuances in theoretical understanding and therapeutic practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a therapeutic approach focusing on the role of interpersonal dynamics in creating psychological difficulties that may be particularly relevant to the field of counselling psychology. IPT's development within randomized controlled trials in the 1970s resulted in a strong empirical foundation without a cohesive theory. Regardless, theorists have since created a theoretical framework for IPT, which has received empirical support. Counselling psychologists have contributed to this research base and may have unique expertise to enhance IPT. Specifically, counselling psychologists can help integrate multicultural and diversity perspectives into IPT with the goal of creating a more culturally competent approach. For example, several aspects of IPT can be expanded to reflect these perspectives, such as integrating cultural sensitivity, cultural knowledge, cultural empathy, and cultural guidance. The authors conclude that IPT is a well-researched and effective treatment approach that holds potential for continued development within counselling psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content & Focus: A notable number of actions and programmes have taken place to internationalise the US counselling psychology profession. This article expands the previous work by examining the growing international perspectives within the Society of Counseling Psychology (SCP), specifically those associated with recent presidential initiatives and leadership, structural organisational change within the Division, and scholarly publications in the Division's journal, The Counseling Psychologist. In addition, we discuss a few cross-cultural training initiatives as one way forward for the SCP to continue promoting the development of international perspectives in counselling psychology in the US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The discipline of applied psychology has begun to reflect more explicitly on the social justice values and practices of the profession. This paper presents the first stage of research in a larger project aiming to explore 'social justice' in applied psychology in the UK, and takes as its focus the branch of counselling psychology. Aim: To explore how members of the UK counselling psychology profession understand social justice, and act on their commitment to it. Method: Interviews were conducted with six individuals who had at least a moderate interest in and commitment to social justice, as assessed by the Social Issues Questionnaire. Data were analysed using techniques from the grounded theory approach. Findings: Themes included participants' understandings of social justice both on a theoretical and a personal level, and the perceived fit between social justice and counselling psychology. Participants reported a perception of a lack of social justice action and reflected on potential difficulties associated with engaging in social justice action. Discussion: Implications for the international counselling psychology profession are reflected on. Directions for further research are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper outlines the origins, developments, and current state of play of counselling psychology in Australia. The relative strength of the early and middle developmental stages of the professions are contrasted with the current decline largely brought about by the Medicare system. The constraints on future development of the field are examined and the importance of revisiting its philosophical base is discussed alongside the need to vitalise its research culture and publications. The paper concludes with a number of recommendations for strengthening counselling psychology in Australia and a reassertion of the value of counselling psychology for the Australian and international community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Quality training placements are crucial to producing professional practitioner psychologists. However, as in other professions, accessing high-quality placements remains a struggle for trainee counselling psychologists. There is also a lack of information regarding where UK counselling psychology trainees typically work on placement and the level of support provided to students. This project attempted to gather data on programme placement support and placement/training mapping. Method: A confidential, anonymous online survey was created to gather quantitative and qualitative data, broadly based on the annual US survey, and each BPS accredited counselling psychology programme was invited to complete one questionnaire. Data was collated and reported descriptively; thematic analysis was used to organise the qualitative data. Findings: 9 of the 13 programmes took part. The average FTE of academic staff allocated to placement support across the participating programmes was 0.5. There was no correspondence between the number of placement contacts per programme and the number of students enrolled on the programme. CBT was the most commonly taught approach on these programmes. For six of the surveyed programmes, there was a strong correspondence between the approaches taught and the number of placement contacts held where students could practice those approaches. NHS placements are now prevalent, but variety in placement settings remains. The qualitative data gathered in this study could be summarised by four themes: 'Placement problems'; 'Counselling psychology and clinical psychology'; 'An improving profile'; and 'National issues'. Discussion: The results suggest that there may be a good level of correspondence between the therapeutic approaches taught on UK counselling psychology training programmes and training placements offered. They also illustrate the range of experience offered by graduates, gained from a variety of placement settings. Some suggestions are offered for future national surveys of counselling psychology programmes based on this pilot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context & Focus: This paper evaluates the role of scholarship in counselling psychology in the UK. Scholarship is defined as the skill of building walls of knowledge, analogous to stonemasonry as the skill of building walls of stone. A review of the literature indicates that scholarship is an essential activity of counselling psychology in the UK, where it builds the profession's identity and the walls of evidence upon which it relies. However, disunity and conflict are found within both of these roles. Scholarship has constructed a contested identity for the profession, and the empirical literature reveals further disagreement on how the walls of evidence should be built. Methodological concerns about quantitative research draw our attention to gaps in the increasingly unsteady walls of evidence, and while qualitative research provides much-needed stability, this methodology, too, is found wanting. In addition, it is shown how this internal dispute over the 'right' construction materials and methods is being increasingly influenced by external forces. The result is a deeply conflicted profession whose scholarly efforts are hindered rather than enhanced by its rich diversity. Conclusion: The paper proposes a pluralistic approach to scholarship that embraces counselling psychology's divisions and diverse influences, and examples of this approach are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This grounded theory study explored the existential lived experience of migrants and second-generation Greek-Cypriot returnees to Cyprus and implications for counselling psychology. It looked at their motivation to return/migrate, their encounter with the new world and desires to belong. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with four migrants and four returnees, recruited within the Cyprus Euroguidance employment service in three cities, Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca in Cyprus, E.U. All participants were in the process of seeking employment. Migrants and returnees faced intense dilemmas following relocation. Returnees' motivations to return were influenced by childhood memories of visiting the country, desires for an improved economic and familial lifestyle, and the need to find a true sense of belonging. Migrants' motivations included being married to a Cypriot, hoping for better economic prospects and living in a sunny environment. People experienced a cultural transition after choosing to put their ethnic identity in a different ethnic environment to the one where it was formed and in their attempts to find work, develop friendships, be accepted and find a home they experienced an unsettling reality. In Counselling psychology terms, the findings support other literature (Ward, Bochner, & Furnham, 2001) highlighting that migrants go through phases of adjustment, with cultural contact and acceptance by the host society, as well as financial independence being key factors. They described their experience as an outsider in a system dominated by nepotism and in a society new to them, that appeared to be suspicious of them. This transition lived by them was psychologically de-stabilising, characterised by stress, frustration, depression and isolation. Their commitment to find a way to belong was shown through their resilience. These findings are discussed with the application and practice of Counselling Psychology in mind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a four-decade history, the professional identity of counselling psychology in South Africa remains nebulous. Recent debates surrounding the revised scope of practice for counselling psychology bring the unresolved issue of professional identity back into focus. Rather than developing an idiosyncratic definition of counselling psychology, it is instructive to look at the ways in which the profession is conceptualised internationally. This article analyses the national definitions of counselling psychology in countries in North America, Europe, Australasia, and Asia, where the profession is both formally recognised and established. A thematic analysis reveals two superordinate themes: the different domains of practice that are considered to fall within the ambit of counselling psychology and the values of counselling psychology that are meant to inform this practice. Common domains of practice are development, prevention, and remediation. Prominent values of counselling psychology emphasise strengths, well-being, and the therapeutic relationship, recognise sociocultural and developmental contexts, value diversity and multiculturalism, and promote social justice. While there is an inevitable overlap with other specialities within psychology, counselling psychology is best distinguished not by the clients that are seen but rather by the values that inform practice. Implications for the practice of counselling psychology and mental health service delivery in South Africa are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In recent years, there has been an increased interest in engaging undergraduate students in psychology research through a mentorship relationship with psychology faculty members. For students, faculty members, and universities committed to undergraduate research mentorship, the potential rewards may be considerable. Yet, the mentorship of undergraduates in research is not without significant challenges. This article examines the benefits and challenges of mentoring undergraduate students in research, both generally and in the specific discipline of counselling psychology. Suggestions for promoting research mentorship relationships between faculty and undergraduate students in counselling psychology and overcoming obstacles are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The author offers a critique on current counseling psychology research from her perspective as a US counseling psychology researcher and editor. She notes that unless something happens to change the trajectory, future US counseling psychology research will be open to the same criticisms. She summarizes counseling psychology values and argues that counseling psychology research reflects those values. She then identifies five ways that counseling psychology could be different in the future by: building theory-based research, embracing diversity of populations, research questions and methodologies, informing (and being informed) by other psychological disciplines, and informing policy and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Using attachment and mentalisation theories as a framework, the present paper aims to explore the impact of the current socio-economic crisis on the micro-processes and interpersonal dynamics that emerge between client and therapist as well as the ethical dilemmas that surface within the context of the therapeutic relationship. The first part of the paper focuses on the intrapsychic level and the subjective appraisal and experience of the crisis, as this may differ from individual to individual as well as the unique meaning-making processes that take place for clients and therapists alike. It is argued that the socio-economic crisis itself cannot be seen as an entity that is entirely independent and external to the individual but as a phenomenon that interacts in unique ways with the individual's inner current and past experience. The second part focuses on the exploration of intersubjective processes that emerge between client and therapist, in particular the transference-countertransference dynamic, as this develops within conditions of increased arousal and anxiety. The role and responsibility of counselling psychologists in preserving reflexivity, empathy and a mentalising stance (through supervision and personal therapy) are highlighted in order to safeguard the ethical and competent practice of counselling psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the experience of a speech pathology and a counselling psychology student in a role-emerging, interprofessional clinical placement. Qualitative descriptive analysis was used to explore student and staff perceptions of the placement which took place within a pre-release detention centre, housing up to six women and their young children, within the Department of Corrective Services. Student reflections were obtained before, during and post placement completion. Reflections from academic staff involved in the project were gathered following placement completion. The analysis of these sources of data revealed that, while challenging, this placement strengthened students' collaborative problem-solving, advocacy skills and clinical competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wittgenstein showed us non-dualist mental processes that have relevance for psychotherapy and our ecology. His methodology is therapeutic in that it helps us realise that our attunement with nature and each other is natural and immediate. This thinking helps us redeine mental health, and with the aid of feedback tools enhance our attunement to clients and their attunement to the world. The values of counselling psychology, with its focus on conversational meaning-making, are highly consistent with the demands of this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a formal professional entity, in the sense of having a state registration with a gazetted scope of practice, an approved training pathway, and its own professional body, the practice tradition of counselling psychology is a relatively new phenomenon in Aotearoa/New Zealand. This paper explores the origins of this practice tradition, both globally and locally, as well as its intrinsic nature. The author argues that counselling psychology aims to be distinctive in privileging relationship, and in supporting this position through both the art and understanding of practice, as well as the knowledge that comes from the application of scholarship and science, particularly human science, to this practice. This claim inevitably brings the practice tradition into relationship with others who occupy some or perhaps all of the same territory. The paper concludes with consideration of some features as well as some potential outcomes of this situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counselling psychology is an emerging scope of practice in New Zealand. This article outlines the core values of counselling psychology and illustrates how they can be applied to a case study. The case study involves a client with panic disorder and the use of a cognitive behavioural intervention. It is written from the perspective of an intern counselling psychologist and includes the reflection of both therapist and client. The aim is to provide some insight into both viewpoints of the therapeutic relationship and the course of the intervention, as well as outlining how the principles of counselling psychology can be applied to such a case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]