The counseling field uses CACREP accreditation as a method of ensuring educational standards are met within counseling programs. This qualitative study investigated the lived experiences of eight counseling faculty members who participated in CACREP accreditation and implementation of standards. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to illuminate any perceived benefits or adverse impacts for counseling faculty, students, and programs. Based on the phenomenological methodology and data analysis five themes emerged; primary benefit -- essential for programs and students, benefits for students, counseling faculty and programs, primary adverse impact -- demand on faculty, adverse impacts for students and programs, and team dynamics/professional identity. The results of this study were compared to the current literature and implications for the counseling field and future research are discussed. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]