This paper presents the results of an heuristic study based on the research question: 'How do psychotherapists experience working with older clients?' The question came from the researchers' experience and interest in working with older clients in general practice. It started from the researchers' desire to examine more closely feelings and…

Describes the evolution and testing of an "attributes checklist" tool for assisting counselor development. These attributes relate to characteristics of case notes that indicate evidence of counselor reflection and consideration of the counseling process. (Author/GCP)

Explores the difficulties, dilemmas, and opportunities afforded by working within a time-limited counseling framework. Gives a brief outline of the change process and provides the backdrop for some reflections on the extent to which time-limited working is consistent with, and adaptable to, a humanistic-dynamic conception of the person. (RJM)

Examines the assumptions of "self" made in the professional and managerial discourses of guidance. Suggests that these assumptions obstruct the capacity of guidance workers to explain their own practices. Drawing on contemporary debates over identity, modernity, and postmodernity, argues for a more explicit debate about the self in…

To estimate the overall effectiveness of counselor training, tested student counselors to explore "response-shift bias." Results from three groups of trainees spanning three years revealed the presence of a response-shift bias, confirmed the effectiveness of the training program, and demonstrated that students continually analyzed their…

Reexamines the assumption that counseling interactions should be face-to-face, whereas other activities of guidance can be supported by the computer. Contends that human relationships will change but not necessarily diminish with computer use. Draws comparisons about ways in which open and distance learning have brought a reexamination of what is…

Provides an overview of boundary matters and examines essential therapeutic qualities, such as empathy, for their boundary-crossing expectations. Considers boundary management and the never-ending need for dynamic involvement and professional judgment. Claims that boundaries must be preserved, but actions should not be so rigid as to hinder…

Explores those characteristics of telephone counselor communication most likely to be associated with positive caller outcomes when the caller's problem involved both practical and emotional concerns. Results show that the more helpful counselors were more verbally active, took the initiative to structure the interview, and explored all aspects of…

A qualitative study of 30 counselors or psychotherapists revealed numerous themes. These major themes include the following: transition by the practitioner toward the use of healing; the taboo over talking about spiritual and healing experiences; the nature of healing as distinct from therapy; supervision difficulties; and the concept of spiritual…

Argues that integration in counseling requires dialectical thinking in order to reconcile different visions of reality typically seen in divergent therapeutic traditions. Offers a model of integration based upon the superordinate concept of "the vicious cycle" derived from an ironic world view. Also provides an illustrative case study.…

A qualitative study was conducted into the experience of student counsellors working as lone counsellors or as members of a small team in higher education colleges. The data, gathered through semi-structured interviews of eight participants, all of whom were responsible for the management of their counselling service, revealed the complexity of…

Reviews the literature on boundary training, along with relevant cultural and social issues. Examines ways in which training may contribute to abuse prevention and identifies key areas for research. Argues that counselors need assistance in internalizing a professional/personal value system that helps them function without external constraints.…

Investigated counselors' (N=94) attitudes in working with people with drinking problems and their opinions of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Results indicate that generic counselors did not feel competent working with these clients; feelings of competence increased with greater experience of the client group. Counselors knew of AA but understood…

Some key ideological beliefs that typically inform and underlie "audit-mindedness" in counseling are critically examined. Presents positivist conceptions of the scientific method as aspects of early developmental experience. Considers the possibility of evaluating the efficacy of counseling and psychotherapy. Concludes by considering…

Examines transference issues over a nine-month period between a white, female counselor and a black, male client. Attempts to show the positive effects that may come about through a non-ethnic- and non-gender-matched, counselor-client dyad and subsequent benefits to clients of counselor similarity and difference. (RJM)