The purpose of this paper is to present a theory of career development drawn from current work in the physical and biological sciences, specifically work that is associated with chaos and complexity theories. The paper includes specific suggestions for practice based upon the theory and reflections of career professionals on its use. The theory…

An integrative framework based on work adjustment theory is discussed. Theoretical themes and the different needs of practitioners and researchers in vocational psychology are highlighted. (Author)

This paper was written to describe the essential tasks of a process known as Dependable Strengths Articulation (DSA) and how career development practitioners can acquire the skills to use the process. DSA, when combined with practices known as Job Magnet, helps participants identify their individual excellence and then use this knowledge to…

Career development is an inherently spiritual process. Yet many career development professionals and personal coaches shy away from any discussion of spirituality in their work. This places the career professional in a dilemma: How does one practice a spiritual occupation, but never discuss the central issue? To escape this dilemma, the author…

As the world has evolved during the past century, so has the nature of career counseling. In the past, the profession focused predominantly on a directive and assessment-driven approach to career development that favored matching clients with the "right" job in order to facilitate their occupational decisions. In recent years, however, numerous…

This paper discusses the "Positive Uncertainty" career decision making strategy, which came into being in 1989. The author suggests that Positive Uncertainty is relevant for individuals struggling to make decisions about their careers, relationships, retirement, life, and more. It is also relevant for career coaches, executive coaches,…

The Federal Government is America's largest employer and is expanding consulting opportunities for career development professionals. Increased Federal mandates for outsourcing have opened wide doors for the entrepreneurial-spirited career counselors and created new challenges for traditional methods of offering career services. As consultants who…

The complexity of today's global realities can be overwhelming and result in profound feelings of chaos. While technology has brought great advancements, it has also brought unprecedented rates of change, job loss, a growing disparity is the socio-economic status of individuals, and a shrinking world in which people representing diverse cultures,…

Notes that, although teenage parenthood is recognized by many counselors as a developmental identity crisis, it rarely has been viewed as a developmental career crisis. Suggests developmental career assessment and counseling procedures for use with teenage parents. Includes sections on career counseling during both pre- and postnatal phases.…

Most adults end up in their work roles through less than fully informed and too-often unintentional career decision-making. The economic and social consequences for individuals, their communities and the national economy are profound. By using what is known about career development and learning, career development professionals can dramatically…

Struggling job seekers want to know what work will give meaning to the 40-plus years they spend at it and a measure of happiness. The author suggests that career practitioners and supervisors can help if they know who we are when, what someone is in the career game for, and how we decide where next to grow. This paper will review the career stage…

Offers suggestions for counselors and parents regarding active role parents can play in career development of their adolescent children. Three dimensions of the active role of parents are discussed: intentionality and meaning attributed to career influence by parents and adolescents, use of narrative, and sources of conflict. (Author/NB)

In this paper the authors build on the evolving relationship between individuals and organizations, and the evolving practice of career development to explore opportunities and challenges in the future. The paper suggests that a two-way relationship of affiliation will be needed in the future between organizations and individuals to maximize…

Career-related problems of children with severe disabilities are discussed. Ameliorative measures that can be taken by school counselors are presented. (Author)

There is no question that professionals and students need help in the process of gathering, deciphering, and then utilizing career information. As we enter the 21st century, school counselors are in a significant position to access and facilitate use of all sorts of career information, and they must be technically prepared to orient students,…