Social constructionism is set forth as an epistemological framework from which to establish an ethical base for the field of counseling. The development of the social constructionist movement in counseling is described. Implications of a social constructionist position are considered in relation to ethics. A case example is provided to illustrate…

Theories of counseling process are founded on a logical contradiction in that they are simultaneously objectivist and constructivist in nature. Because this epistemic tension is present across diverse theories and has persisted throughout the history of counseling theorizing, the author argues that it has implications for the structure of human…

Two samples of practicing psychologists (N=229) were surveyed; their preference for individualistic values in response to clinical case vignettes was explored. Core-value expressions of contemporary individualism and alternative worldviews (including collectivism and communitarianism) are considered. Survey results are discussed. (Author/EMK)

Presents a survey of published and private opinions of mental health professionals revealing a previously hidden consensus concerning certain values that enhance mental health: Freedom, Love, Identity, Truth, Universals, Symptom Management, and Work. There was disagreement about the effect of many other values on mental health. (Author/BH)

Environmental manipulation is a technique that can be utilized by counselors to supplement regular counseling activities. One expression of this technique involves working with that environment of the student which comprises other students, teachers and administrators. Other methods and results are discussed. (Author)

The lack of focus and direction in school guidance and counseling is considered. Counselors in secondary schools were surveyed regarding their philosophical orientation. Differences were related to personal variables and experience levels. Phenomenology was the most frequent orientation. Results are discussed in relation to professional practice…

Culture as a group phenomenon versus the need of counselors to work with the individual is addressed. The VISION model of culture, which accounts for within-group and between-group differences, the disappearance of groups, and the emergence of new ones, is presented. Two examples of multicultural interventions are reported. (Author/EMK)

Examines methods that are designed to expand and transform consciousness and argues that aspects of transpersonal psychology form the basis for the investigation of rituals, spiritual disciplines, and techniques that provoke shifts in awareness and energy. Outlines a psychosynthesis model for understanding these experiences, and presents a program…

How counselor intentions function within the process of counseling is explored. Counselor intentions are discussed within the framework of the cognitive mediational paradigm. Implications of the use of counselor intentions for the training of beginning counselors are also delineated. (Author/EMK)

This article relates systematic causality to applications in behavior theory, counseling practice, and counseling research. The paper was presented at the American Educational Research Association Convention, Chicago, 1972. (JC)

The fact that religiosity has been consistently associated with positive mental health outcomes is a warrant for counselors to explore the resources of one's religious tradition for therapeutic change. Argues that pastoral counseling is particularly suited for addressing the ego development needs of adolescents, and that the vicissitudes of…

The author challenges the view that adopting an existential perspective in counseling is inapplicable or a luxury for most clients. The concept of existential authenticity is presented as an organizing ethic that can bring out the positive side of existentialism in counseling. Specific values and conditions are presented that can be adopted to…