Today Counseling
44 41 36 Features 28 Cover Story 50 Extras 48
time in jail or prison. counseling and social skills training to nonviolent offenders who otherwise face developed aplantohelpmembersofitscommunityprocess externaltraumaticevents. coverage ofthedeadlyshootingsat Virginia Tech, St. Laurence High SchoolinIllinois Concerned by how theirown studentsandstaffmembersmightrespond tomedia By Thomas J. Pallardy One school’s response events toexternaltraumatic Reader Viewpoint Drug courts offer substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, job Morkides By Chris crime addictionand Breaking thecycleof Louisiana counselors provide on-the-ground accounts of how one of the largest oil By LynneShallcross culturesLivelihoods and incrisis be hard toachieve withindividualtherapy. clientsblossominwaysthat may community andconnectionhelpscertain Counselors whospecialize ingroup work believe theempowering sense of By LynneShallcross Strength innumbers address counselorsgatheringinNew Orleans nextMarch fortheannualconference. An award-winning news correspondent and an expert in cognitive therapy will to keynote 2011ACA Conference Soledad O’Brien, Beck Judith multicultural training. of theliterature suggeststhatspiritual diversity mightremain aneglectedaspectof Although adiversity perspective isbeingpreached incounselor education,areview By Angela St. Hillaire Addressing spiritual diversity Reader Viewpoint spills in history is affecting the mental health of residents in Gulf Coast communities.
September 2010
September 2010|
Counseling Today 36 41 28 | 3 Contents CounselingTodaySeptember 2010 Columns 10 Washington Update 11 The Two-Minute Advocate Counselor Career Stories 12 Numbersby the Numbers 16 New Perspectives Children and traumatic events 18 Private Practice in Counseling Although the exact emotional toll the Gulf Coast oil spill will take on residents remains to be seen (see “Livelihoods and Resource Reviews cultures in crisis,” page 36), studies of past traumatic events 22 suggest that children’s mental health needs should be monitored closely. Several new studies on children and disaster were 24 Spotlight on Journals published as part of a special section in the July/August issue of the Child Development journal. Among the findings: 26 ACA Blog Sampler Children of the 9/11 attacks n Children whose mothers reported symptoms of post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression were three times more likely to be emotionally reactive and seven times Need to Know more likely to display aggressive behavior three years later.
From the President n Children directly exposed to the attacks were only slightly 5 more likely to experience PTSD but significantly more likely to be depressed than children who were not directly exposed. 7 Executive Director’s Message Children of Hurricane Katrina 8 Letters to the Editor n Young children were found to be more deeply af- fected than adolescents; three years 52 NBCC Perspective after Katrina, children ages 9 to 11 were four times more likely than those ages 54 Division, Region & Branch News 15 to 18 to exhibit symptoms of PTSD. Bulletin Board 56 n Although one of the studies found behavioral problems to decrease 57 News & Notes over time, it also found that more than 25 percent of the 60 Classifieds younger children were still showing signs of PTSD and depression three years after the hurricane.
n Girls of any age were found to be twice as likely to struggle in adapting after the disaster.
4 | Counseling Today | September 2010 From The President CounselingToday
Volume 53/Number 3
Counseling Today Staff Publisher Beauty, sadness, Richard Yep
Associate Publisher laughter, learn- Carol Neiman
Editor-in-Chief
Marcheta Evans ing Jonathan Rollins 800.347.6647 ext. 339 [email protected]
Senior Writer ave you ever had an opened my mouth, it removed all doubt Lynne Shallcross experience that was that I might be from their country. As 800.347.6647 ext. 320 [email protected] Hoverwhelmingly beautiful and represents the true spirit of the Malawian sad at the same time? I just returned from people, I was immediately invited to Advertising Representative such an experience. I had the wonderful return to the village to spend at least five Kathy Maguire opportunity to spend three weeks on years so they could teach me the language. 607.662.4451 the continent of Africa in the country of I laughed, thinking to myself that they [email protected] Malawi. must consider me a really slow learner! Graphic Designer Malawi is one of the poorest nations in But in that exchange, they also asked me Carlos J. Soto II Africa, and life expectancy is only about not to forget about them. As I looked into 800.347.6647 ext. 377 [email protected] 50 years (less than a decade ago, it was their eyes, I was moved to tears. There is barely over 40). The country’s slogan is no way I will forget this experience as long CT Column Editors “the warm heart of Africa,” and I couldn’t as I have breath in my body. Washington Update agree more with this description. As a To see the resiliency of people and Scott Barstow counselor, I have worked in some of the to witness how children learned, even 800.347.6647 ext. 234 poorest areas in the deep South, but I in classes of 200 or more, was truly [email protected] have never in my life encountered such amazing. The students were sitting Counselor Career Stories poverty as I saw on my visit to Malawi. bunched together on concrete floors, Rebecca Daniel-Burke At the same time, I have never witnessed with little or no learning supplies. How 800.347.6647 ext. 230 such caring and such giving of the little could learning possibly occur in such [email protected] they do have. I experienced this firsthand conditions? Yet, somehow, it did. The Resource Reviews by the way they gave to me, a complete purpose of my visit was to work with the Ruth Harper stranger from the United States. native educators to develop textbooks [email protected] It is natural for people to be curious and guided supplementary materials for when they meet someone different from literacy development through a USAID Private Practice in Counseling Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook themselves. In this case, I think it was grant, but I walked away forever changed [email protected] more of a shock for them to see me than in regard to how I view learning and to see the “white” people from the United material wealth. Spotlight on Journals States. Upon seeing me, they expected This month’s Counseling Today cover Sheri Bauman [email protected] me to be Malawian and to speak the story focuses on group work. When I native language of Chichewa. When I first heard the topic, it reminded me of a New Perspectives opened my mouth to speak, they were book I read many years ago called “Why Donjanea L. Fletcher taken aback, and for a second, they were Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in [email protected] confused about who I was and what the Cafeteria?” by Beverly Tatum. Just the The Digital Psyway language I was speaking. title alone reminds me of how we can Marty Jencius I’ll share a funny story that happened gravitate toward the familiar and have a [email protected] when I visited one of the orphan care tendency to separate ourselves from one centers in a very rural village about 15 another. How often do we take the time kilometers from any road. The village to explore outside of our comfort areas? chiefs who were there to greet us wanted As counselors, we ask our clients and a private audience with me to verify that students to expand beyond their comfort I was not Malawian and that I could not speak the language. Once again, when I Continued on page 58
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 5 !S!IOHM?FCHA ,??>NI)HIQ CH1=BIIFM 1?=IH>#>CNCIH Sheri Bauman John J. Murphy This informative book offers complete, Dr. Murphy offers a refreshingly positive up-to-date coverage of the growing and practical approach to resolving a problem of cyberbullying. Written for diverse range of problems from preschool counselors, teachers, school leaders, through high school. Drawing on the and others who work with children most recent research and on his extensive and teens, Cyberbullying addresses the experience as a school practitioner and real-life dangers students face on the trainer, he presents a step-by-step guide Internet. Includes a discussion of the to solution-focused counseling in today’s different types of cyberbullying and schools. This strength-based approach is cyberbullying environments; an overview illustrated through real-world examples of prominent theories of aggressive behavior; practical tips and dialogues from actual counseling sessions. User-friendly to identify and follow cyberfootprints; proactive responses to forms, questionnaires, and handouts are provided for cyberbullying; effective, nonpunitive strategies for responding immediate application with students, teachers, and parents. to cyberbullying; useful information on current technology 2008 | 280 pgs | Order #72873 | ISBN 978-1-55620-247-6 and popular websites; and much more. List Price: $47.95 | ACA Member Price: $35.95 2011 | 215 pgs | Order #72900 | ISBN 978-1-55620-294-0 List Price: $29.95 | ACA Member Price: $24.95 =NCP?'HN?LP?HNCIHM $IL)C>M;H>2??HM 1OC=C>?.L?P?HNCIHCHNB?1=BIIFM Jeffrey S. Ashby, Terry Kottman, and Don DeGraaf %OC>?FCH?M@IL+C>>F?;H>&CAB1=BIIF This engaging guide contains 50 action- 1?NNCHAM 1?=IH>#>CNCIH oriented activities that can be used David Capuzzi in groups with children, adolescents, In this book, David Capuzzi encourages and adults. Combining fun with suicide prevention in schools through proven adventure therapy strategies, the use of a clear and effective crisis the activities are designed to stimulate management plan designed to identify learning, promote social and emotional and serve at-risk youth. His concise, development, cultivate skills, foster step-by-step framework provides change, and encourage teamwork. For essential information for school quick and easy use, each activity lists age counselors, administrators, and faculty range, game rules, goals and objectives, materials required, on suicide assessment, faculty roles and modification suggestions, and post-activity processing and responsibilities, and instructions on how discussion questions. Additionally, helpful matrixes organize to implement a building- or district-wide prevention program the activities by type, goals, objectives, and grade levels to help that includes faculty training and preparation of crisis teams. group leaders find the right activity at the right time. Postvention after a suicide attempt or completion, the legal 2008 | 235 pgs | Order #72875 | ISBN 978-1-55620-256-8 aspects of youth suicide prevention, parental education, and List Price: $44.95 | ACA Member Price: $32.95 classroom lesson plans are also included. 2009 | 120 pages | Order #72884 | ISBN 978-1-55620-285-8 List Price: $29.95 | ACA Member Price: $24.95
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6 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Executive Director's message CounselingToday American Counseling Your professional Association President association, get- Marcheta Evans 800.347.6647 ext. 232 [email protected]
Richard Yep ting better all the President-Elect Don W. Locke time 800.347.6647 [email protected]
hen September rolls We also realize that extended periods Executive Director around, many of us think of travel away from your students and Richard Yep of it as another “new clients are not always feasible. We have 800.347.6647 ext. 231 W [email protected] beginning,” given that it is the start of listened to those of you who want more the school year for many folks. For a continuing education opportunities, Counseling Today (ISSN 1078-8719) is the number of us who followed a traditional and I am glad to report that during the monthly magazine of the American Counseling education model, September was when current fiscal year (July 1, 2010, through Association, 5999 Stevenson Ave., Alexandria, VA 22304-3300; Telephone: 703.823.9800; we went “back to school,” which we June 30, 2011), you will have an even Internet: counseling.org. Opinions expressed associated with new clothes, interacting greater number of chances to obtain CE in this magazine do not necessarily represent with new teachers and meeting up with credit through ACA. In fact, as the year opinions of the editors or policies of the friends we hadn’t seen all summer long. progresses, you will see that our podcasts American Counseling Association. Because I seem to be in this mind-set, will be eligible for CEs, so check our Subscriptions are available for $150 for 12 I wanted to share what the American website and take the time to download issues by calling PP&F at 800.633.4931. Single Counseling Association has been doing something from our ever-growing podcast copies are available for $12.50 each by calling as we “begin” a new year with all of you. ACA in-house fulfillment at 800.422.2648 ext. library. 222. Not to sound like an infomercial, but During 2010-2011, ACA will publish a some very positive things are happening number of new books. Included in those Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, Va., and at ACA, and I want you to be aware of releases will be: additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send what your leadership, your staff and your address changes to ACA Member Services, association are involved in. n Play Therapy: Basics and Beyond, 5999 Stevenson Ave., Alexandria, VA 22304. second edition, by Terry Kottman All rights reserved, 2010 by the American For instance, toward the end of July, Counseling Association. more than 110 leaders from ACA n Counseling as an Art, fourth edition, branches, regions and national divisions by Sam Gladding Editorial Policies gathered in the Washington, D.C., area Counseling Today reviews unsolicited articles n Integrating Spirituality and Religion and guest editorials for possible publication. for the second annual ACA Institute for Into Counseling, second edition, edited Not all articles will be accepted for publication. Leadership Training. The event spanned by Craig Cashwell and Scott Young Send articles or request a copy of the writing five days and featured networking, guidelines by e-mailing [email protected]. professional development, leadership n Experiential Activities for Teaching training and resource gathering. Multicultural Competence in Counseling Anti-Discrimination Policy edited by Mark Pope, Joe Pangelan and There shall be no discrimination against any One of the highlights for me was individual on the basis of ethnic group, race, seeing so many professional counselors Angela Coker religion, gender, sexual orientation, age and/or and counselor educators head to Capitol n Counseling Children: A Core Issues disability. Hill to talk with senators, representatives Approach by Richard Halstead, Dale Mission Statement and their staffs about the importance of Pehrsson and Jodi Mullen The mission of the American Counseling counseling and the need for policy that n Group Work and Outreach Guide for Association is to enhance the quality of life in society by promoting the development allows consumers access to the services College Counselors edited by Trey Fitch provided by our members. This was a of professional counselors, advancing the and Jennifer Marshall counseling profession and using the profession very powerful experience, and despite a and practice of counseling to promote respect n Developing and Managing Your School few pre-meeting jitters, your leadership for human dignity and diversity. was phenomenal in accomplishing what Guidance and Counseling Program by they did. Kudos to all who attended and Norm Gysbers and Patricia Henderson participated in the institute. If you ever I encourage you to check the ACA get a chance to participate in this event, website so you can be the first to know I hope you will do so. The next one is when a book is released. The new and scheduled for July 27-31, 2011, also in the Washington area. Continued on page 46
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 7 Letters
Readers anxious to add not prepared ethically to confront “their their perspectives to article worst nightmare” of client suicide. This on suicide prevention article says the new CACREP Standards I would like to thank Lynne Shallcross include suicide prevention. Bravo! In for her thorough, informative, my 17 years of dealing with this issue, inspirational and educational article suicide has always outpaced homicide in agitation, being unable to sleep or “Confronting the threat of suicide” in the United States, generally by a ratio of sleeping all the time, dramatic changes in the July 2010 issue of Counseling Today. 5-to-3. mood, having no reason to live or having I am a graduate student at Seton Hall Asking the question of whether no sense of purpose in life. University, where I am working toward someone has contemplated suicide is One footnote: Even the best-trained my master’s in counseling. My current hard, but recent data show that even after professional is still human. So if a client work and volunteer experience involves just one hour of training, most people does die by suicide, you can recover clients in crisis, both on an involuntary (54 percent) will have sufficient skills to and use the experience to help others psychiatric unit and a crisis hotline. perform an intervention. The Counseling who might be thinking of or even I look for every opportunity to learn Today article can do a world of good, planning a suicide attempt. The same and grow within the field and find that too. I believe too many professionals are mechanisms that help clients can help Counseling Today provides me with many afraid to ask the question; some just don’t you recover, too. Reach out to other of these educational opportunities. want to know the answer. The checklists survivors and start a dialogue. As the Most recently, the article on confronting of do’s/don’ts and the myths Shallcross article accurately concluded, “people are the threat of suicide provided readers provided are a good starting place. responsible for their own choices, and with in-depth information about suicide I would add that although more than counselors shouldn’t try to carry that assessment, treatment, prevention and 100 risk factors are known to be linked burden for others.” I encourage everyone research. I was also moved by Kim with suicide, none has predictive power to get training in suicide intervention, Johancen-Walt’s personal disclosure within to the individual. Risk factors lend prevention and aftermath. I am a the cover story. I have been inspired by themselves to large groups of people. professional and a survivor as well. Johancen-Walt since reading her July In 2006, the American Association Wayne Hankammer, M.A., LPC 2009 Reader Viewpoint article, “The of Suicidology published a paper that Artesia, N.M. initial interview with the self-harming differentiated risk factors from “warning w and suicidal client.” I immediately signs.” Such warnings are clinically communicated with Johancen-Walt by derived instead of empirically derived I really appreciated Lynne Shallcross’ e-mail and, to my surprise, she quickly like the risk factors. It’s just too much to article. It went to great lengths to both responded with warmth, encouragement decipher more than 100 risk factors in detail the misconceptions about suicide and support for a graduate student. I had a time-sensitive situation, but warning and to outline steps counselors can take to no idea she had lost a brother to suicide signs are on the short list in a two- ensure the safety of their clients. Shallcross and was moved by her ability to use this tiered system. In the top tier, immediate even managed to use a real-life anecdote as painful experience to help others in the intervention is imperative. They are: a way of keeping the article firmly rooted field. in reality as opposed to being strictly n Someone threatening to hurt or kill theoretical. I’m sure the article will be a Again, thank you to Lynne Shallcross himself/herself for a well-written and informative article valuable resource to the profession and a and especially to Kim Johancen-Walt n Someone looking for ways to kill good reminder to all of the complexities for taking the time to share her personal himself/herself (seeking access to pills, involved in issues surrounding suicide and experiences to further help those in weapons or other means) the counseling relationship. crisis and to help educate students and I would also like to take the n Someone talking or writing about professionals in this field. opportunity to strengthen the argument death, dying or suicide against some of the myths surrounding Lisa Steinhilber The second tier contains behaviors suicide that were pointed out in the Seton Hall University indicating that the person should be article. The article made reference to the w directed to someone for assistance, aged and elderly, stating that “suicide Reading Lynne Shallcross’ article, I got although the need is not “immediate.” rates rise with age and reach their highest the sense that things are changing in the Those warning signs are hopelessness, levels among White males in their 70s profession regarding suicide prevention. rage, anger, seeking revenge, acting and 80s.” Although the subjective reality While still a graduate student, a classmate reckless/risky without thinking faced by those dealing with the suicide of and I presented on suicide for an ethics (parasuicidal), feeling trapped, increased class in 1999, stating that counselors were substance use, withdrawal, anxiety, Continued on page 47
8 | Counseling Today | September 2010 September 2010 | Counseling Today | 9 Washington Update - By Scott Barstow and Dominic Holt ACA leadership institute attendees advocate for counseling profession
n July 23, attendees of the annual American Counseling OAssociation Institute for Leadership Training braved hot weather in our nation’s capital to visit roughly 150 congressional offices and urge adoption of legislation to establish independent practice authority for licensed professional counselors within the TRICARE program. This is the second consecutive year that the ACA leadership training institute for state, division and regional counseling leaders has been held in the Washington area. Doing so makes it possible for these counseling leaders to engage in face-to-face lobbying visits with congressional offices. Studies show this is by far the most effective means of influencing members of Congress. Stand-alone bills are pending in both the House of Representatives (H.R. 3839) and the Senate (S. 3371) that would establish independent practice authority for LPCs within TRICARE, but any changes to the law will be made Stuart Hill Credit: as part of much broader legislation to Attendees of ACA’s leadership institute visited approximately 150 congressional offices. authorize all federal defense spending and programs for the next fiscal year. professionals. Many of the lobbying visits legislation to remove TRICARE’s Both the House and Senate defense resulted in positive responses, and ACA’s physician referral and supervision authorization bills (H.R. 5136 and S. public policy staff members are following requirement for services provided by 3454, respectively) include language on up with the offices visited to solidify licensed professional counselors. this issue. Unfortunately, the Senate’s support for removing the physician Accepting the award on Rooney’s behalf bill includes several requirements that referral and supervision requirement. was staff member Drew Shoemaker, who counselors would have to meet to practice We thank all of the counselors who works on military personnel issues for the independently instead of simply allowing took part in the visits and invite all ACA congressman. ACA is grateful for Rep. counselors meeting current TRICARE members to contact us for information Rooney’s leadership and for Shoemaker’s participation requirements to do so. In on how to engage elected officials on work with us on this important issue. their meetings, counselors asked their this and other policy issues affecting the Senate panel calls for representatives to cosponsor H.R. 3839, profession. legislation to establish independent increased funds for school practice authority for counselors, and Rep. Tom Rooney recipient of counseling program asked their senators to communicate ACA Legislative Service Award On July 29, the Senate Appropriations their support for independent practice As part of the “Day on the Hill” held Committee voted for a Labor, Health authority for counselors to the Senate during the leadership institute, ACA and Human Services, Education and Armed Services Committee. President Marcheta Evans presented Related Agencies appropriations bill that In a sign of the need to address this ACA’s Federal Legislative Service Award includes $57 million for the Elementary issue, attendees were greeted on July to staff from the office of Rep. Tom and Secondary School Counseling 23 with a front-page article in USA Rooney (R-Fla.). Rooney was chosen Program (ESSCP) for Fiscal Year (FY) Today about the need to give service to receive the award because of his members better access to mental health leadership in sponsoring H.R. 3839, Continued on page 58
10 | Counseling Today | September 2010 The Two-Minute Advocate - By Scott Barstow and Dominic Holt
Grow the Elementary Committee has yet to approve its version and Secondary School of the spending bill. Counseling Program The American Counseling Association The issue: As elections draw nearer believes that ESSCP is a valuable Capitol Switchboard at 202.225.3121 and the congressional calendar grows investment in school counseling and asking for a specific member’s office shorter, Congress is trying to pass its services. Most schools have far fewer when the operator answers. annual appropriations bills to keep school counselors, school social workers the federal government running. The and school psychologists than are Key message: Please vote in support Senate Appropriations Committee has needed to provide the comprehensive of the Senate Appropriations Committee recommended increasing funding for counseling programs, services and recommendation of $57 million for the Elementary and Secondary School supports that can enable students to the Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Program (ESSCP) by $2 reach their full potential. Too often, Counseling Program for Fiscal Year 2011. Although this is a meager increase over million for Fiscal Year 2011 to a total of state and local school boards do not the program’s $55 million for the current $57 million, the highest funding level give school counselors adequate priority. fiscal year, it is desperately needed. School the program has ever received. Many Thus, ESSCP fills an important role in districts across the country are cutting obstacles remain for maintaining or supporting school counselor positions counseling positions, and ESSCP is the improving on this allocation, however, and fostering the development of only program that ensures dedicated because the Obama administration has effective school counseling services and federal funds for school counselors and proposed cutting ESSCP in favor of interventions. related professionals and services. School larger, less focused education programs, counseling services positively affect and this idea has at least some support Whom to contact: Your two U.S. students’ health and academic success. in Congress. The measure the Senate senators and your U.S. representative. Appropriations Committee approved Find out who your lawmakers are at For more info: Dominic Holt, now217-473 moves toCalU the fullSportCounseling Senate for 7x5 4c:Layoutcapwiz.com/counselin 1 12/22/09g. You 12:00 can contact PM Page 1 800.347.6647 ext. 242 or dholt@ consideration. The House Appropriations any member of Congress by calling the counseling.org u
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September 2010 | Counseling Today | 11 Counselor Career Stories - By Rebecca Daniel-Burke
Practicing intuitive guidance
recently read a blog by Robbin when I went to school for my advanced through mindfulness and meditation. Miller and wrote to ask her a degree in counseling at the University RDB: What about the political side of I question. After a few e-mails and of Maine at Orono. I received great counseling: agencies, contracts, business a phone call, I realized I wanted to share training and knowledge on CBT in my strategies? Does all of this have a place in her story. I trust you will learn some theory and practicum classes. counseling? interesting lessons, as I did, from this RDB: Please say a bit about your RM: Counseling agencies are a hardworking counselor. favorite counseling position. How was business and need to make strategic Rebecca Daniel-Burke: What is your that job for you? decisions to keep their doors open. current counseling position? RM: I worked as a fee-for-service However, agencies have a responsibility Robbin Miller: I work as a fee-for- clinician at a well-known counseling to advocate for their clients on the local, service clinician at a family counseling clinic that focused on keeping state and federal levels. Agencies need to clinic for clients on Medicaid. I also families together whenever possible. stress to their clinicians the importance have a small private practice. Management treated their employees of learning how to advocate for RDB: What led you down the path well as part of their family. I learned in programs and services for their clients toward a career in counseling? a “boot camp nurturing” manner how as well as teaching their clients how to RM: At the age of 12, I became to be a better clinician in working with advocate for themselves. It is politically interested in learning more about my clients. Due to budget cuts last year, wise sometimes to not let insurance psychology. I was quite dissatisfied several other clinicians and I were laid contracts get in the way of advocating with the counseling services I received off. However, management treated us for your clients’ needs. Agencies can as a child. The counselor practiced well. We were given a party at the end of work with state and national counseling psychoanalysis, and that was not at our employment and allowed to stay six and social work organizations to lobby all helpful to my personal growth and weeks to transition our clients to other for changes in insurance rates and development as a tween. From this agencies and services. services for their clientele. experience, I learned that children need RDB: Where does your predominant RDB: Is there still a place for caring to be engaged through play therapy and theoretical orientation come into your develop their own sovereignty of who work? and compassion in counseling? they are in counseling. RM: I don’t use a main theoretical RM: Yes, caring and compassion need RDB: As you moved through school, orientation when working with clients. I to be the core values in counseling. was there one theoretical orientation am rather eclectic in using the principles However, due to economic constraints, that you gravitated toward more than of positive psychology, cognitive some agencies are in “survivor mode,” others? behavioral therapy, solution-focused and where quantity, and not quality, services RM: I liked learning about how the Buddhist psychology in understanding are being done at the clients’ expense. environment impacts people’s behaviors, my clients’ behaviors and empowering I don’t agree with the carrot-and-stick known as the ecological theories in them to work on their issues by focusing method of asking clinicians to see graduate school. When I was going for on their strengths. more clients beyond their productivity my master’s in education for student RDB: What do you mean when you requirements to earn a bonus over a personnel services at the College of say Buddhist psychology? period of time. This incentive can dilute St. Rose, the theory classes focused RM: I see it as a new way of looking the formation of developing rapport on how the environment influenced at strengths and focusing on Eastern with your clients and cause burnout. student behaviors in the residence methods such as mindfulness. A RDB: How did you determine what halls. However, I changed my focus to counselor might encourage a client to area of counseling you were passionate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) identify triggers and then deal with them about?
12 | Counseling Today | September 2010 RM: I found through trial and error in working with several populations that I enjoy working with families and adults with diverse needs. I like being both the advocate and counselor in empowering my clients to make positive changes in LIFEISTOOLONG their behaviors. RDB: Was there someone in your TOLIVEITINPAIN life who saw something special in you early on? Who valued you as a unique individual? Who is your hero? RM: My mother and father taught me and my brother that you have to depend on taking care of yourself and not rely on others or on entitlements to do it for you. That’s why my brother and I have a strong work ethic. RDB: Has studying counseling and becoming a professional counselor been transformational for you? RM: Yes, especially as I became more of a holistic counselor practicing integrative therapies from Western and Eastern traditions. I have used both traditions in understanding myself better and in dealing with complex problems Recovery From Grief that my clients bring into their sessions with me. Is Possible RDB: When you refer to integrative therapies, what do you mean? RM: The integration of Eastern and Western principles. Some might call it intuitive guidance. It is going inside yourself and quieting your mind. RDB: What mistakes have you made along the way as you became the ® counselor you are today? And what The Grief ¨ Recovery lessons have you learned from those mistakes? Certification Training Program RM: I have made a few blunders over the years and have taken ownership 4ǦDayTraining/30CEUHours/Maximum15Participants for my mistakes. I have learned to be more diplomatic and politically PARTIAL2010SCHEDULE correct. However, I am still very direct (MoreDatesOnline) in communicating my thoughts to my clients and management in a SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER professional manner. 10Ǧ13SanDiego,CA 1Ǧ4Portland,OR 5Ǧ8Phoenix,AZ RDB: Is there a saying, a book or a 10Ǧ13Atlanta,GA 1Ǧ4SanAntonio,TX 5Ǧ8Chicago,IL quote that you think about when you 24Ǧ27LittleRock,AR 22Ǧ25Pittsburgh,PA 19Ǧ22OklahomaCity,OK need to be inspired regarding your work? 24Ǧ27Louisville,KY 19Ǧ22Denver,CO RM: Yes, I use the principles of 24Ǧ27ShermanOaks,CA 19Ǧ22ShermanOaks,CA mindfulness meditation by Jon Kabat- Zinn in learning to be grounded when ForMoreInformationorToRegister the going gets tough. I also use the spiritual work of Wayne Dyer and Call800Ǧ334Ǧ7606orVisitTheGriefRecoveryInstituteat Louise Hay in helping me to understand WWW.GRIEF.NET how to work with difficult clients.
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 13 RDB: I can see your work is intense at times. How do you take care of yourself and fill yourself back up? Clinical Supervision in the Helping RM: I enjoy spending quality time with my 1-year-old baby. I love Professions: A Practical Guide going home to be with him and to my husband, my cat and my dog for Second Edition relaxation. I also meditate on a regular basis and enjoy gardening and producing Gerald Corey, Robert Haynes, television programs on cable access TV. Patrice Moulton, Michelle Muratori RDB: What do you produce on public access TV? “This is the most comprehensive supervision RM: Since 1999, I have been resource that I have seen and one that producing 30-minute shows about the provides a clear framework for consultation elderly and the disabled. I have received and supervision classes. It offers concrete activities and focus questions to guide two national awards. the process, while covering those areas in RDB: That is very impressive. Our supervision that have traditionally been readers are mostly practicing counselors. unaddressed. I will adopt this text to train site supervisors and internship Is there anything else you want our students in becoming competent future supervisors.” readers to know? —Kellie Kirksey, PhD RM: Yes, it is important that Malone University counselors not be afraid to speak up when the timing is right and it is “Engaging, practical, and up-to-date on current research and cutting-edge politically feasible to do so. I wish issues in supervision, this book combines essential content with numerous more counselors in my state [of opportunities to interact with the subject matter in a meaningful way.” Massachusetts] would advocate for better —Mary Kate Reese, PhD pay, benefits and equitable productivity Argosy University, Atlanta standards in the workplace. There is a continual shortage of qualified clinicians This straightforward guide for new and practicing supervisors emphasizes the attainment of skills necessary to effectively supervise to see clients across the state. Also, others in a variety of settings. Topics covered include the roles and counselors need to advocate to Congress responsibilities of supervisors, the supervisory relationship, models to allow us to see clients on Medicare. and methods of supervision, becoming a multiculturally competent It is quite discriminatory when looking supervisor, ethical and legal issues in supervision, managing crisis for a job and being ineligible to apply situations, and evaluation in supervision. User-friendly tips, case because I am not a social worker. u examples, sample forms, questions for reflection, and group activities are included throughout the text, as are contributing supervisors’ Voices From the Field and the Authors’ Personal Perspectives—making this an interactive learning tool that is sure to keep readers interested >`ÊÛÛi`°ÊÓä£äÊUÊÎä{Ê«}Ã
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List Price: $62.95 | ACA Member Price: $43.95 Rebecca Daniel-Burke is director of the ACA Career Center. Contact Please include $8.75 for shipping of the first book her at [email protected] and $1.00 for each additional book. if you have questions, feedback or suggestions for future columns. American Counseling Association 800-422-2648 x222 Letters to the editor: [email protected] counseling.org
14 | Counseling Today | September 2010 “The things that you lose, a lot of time you can never get those back.” What could someone who survived drugs tell kids? Your best weapon is drug education that reaches youth with the facts as told by former users who themselves survived the nightmare of addiction. And that is a message that will empower them to resist peer pressure—the major reason kids turn to drugs in the first place.
That’s where we can help with of the most commonly abused success—proven drug education substances, as told by users in the booklets, award-winning public same factual, no-hype but powerful service messages and the new approach that is the hallmark of our To find out more, centerpiece of our educational program. program—the documentary The order the FREE Truth About Drugs—Real People, Truth About Drugs Find out more about effective drug Information Kit Real Stories. education materials that enable you TODAY. This hard-hitting, no-holds-barred to reach kids before drugs do—with 13-part film (on DVD) covers each a message they will listen to. drugfreeworld.org/educators “The students were interested in the videos and The Truth About Drugs is a program of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, a nonprofit public benefit corporation. The Foundation’s purpose is to empower youth materials…and loved the information. … I also and adults with the facts they need to make informed decisions about drugs. received e-mails from parents telling me that students came home and talked to them about what they had learned. … This is the best drug education program I have ever seen.” —Health Teacher drugfreeworld.org/educators
Get the facts you need to know. Get the truth about drugs.
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September 2010 | Counseling Today | 15 New Perspectives - With Donjanea L. Fletcher
Advice on preparing for the admission interview and building a résumé
n this month’s column, a master’s have suggestions on how to prepare? — Finally, on the interview day, dress student seeks tips on getting into Master’s Student, Ohio professionally, like you are applying for Igraduate programs, while another Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson: If more a job. This may or may not matter to counseling student inquires about résumé individuals asked this question, their the interviewers, but you will feel more building. Addressing their questions: interviews might go more smoothly. If professional. Most interviewers are n Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson is a professor you interview well, you already have good looking for students who will work hard, and chair of the University of Nevada, strategies. learn, behave professionally, develop Las Vegas Counselor Education Interview teams look for different relationships, listen and share talking Department. She is also a licensed things depending on the program, the time. Remember to turn off your cell phone and be fully in the moment! clinical professional counselor faculty members and the mission they Brian S. Canfield: Obviously, the supervisor, a nationally certified aspire to meet. There are a few ways you program is very interested in you as a counselor (NCC) and a distance can prepare. I always recommend that credentialed counselor. She specializes prospective student or it would not have students bring brief résumés with them. offered an interview. in child and family counseling, using Even if it is not collected, an updated bibliotherapy and play therapy. It is often useful to anticipate questions résumé gives you ready access to your that typically come up in interviews n Brian S. Canfield is a counselor current experiences, and this makes for a (for example, why do you want to be educator and supervisor of 28 years more relaxed interview. a counselor, what do you see as your and a former board member of the Also create a list of informed questions strongest personal attributes for becoming Arkansas Board of Examiners in and ask faculty members about their a counselor and so on). However, Counseling. He also is a past president research and clinical expertise. This you don’t want to come across as too of both the International Association demonstrates thoughtful preparation. scripted in your answers. Remember that of Marriage and Family Counselors Interviewers will know you read the counseling programs are just as anxious and the American Counseling departmental, faculty and graduate to recruit the “right” student as a student Association. college websites thoroughly and are is anxious to find the “right” program. n Frank Coulson is an LPC and a career serious about graduate study. When a Although the program is interviewing counselor at the University of Texas student asks questions that could have you, cultivate the mind-set that you at Brownsville. He loves helping been found easily with little research are also interviewing the program for students explore their career dreams effort, it may appear that the interviewee your consideration. Be genuine in your and enjoys spending time with family lacks initiative. Also, read the counseling responses. Let interviewers get a good and reading (his daughter calls him sense of who you are and what you association websites, especially ACA’s Mr. Bookhead). He blogs on life issues will bring to their program and the (counseling.org). This is always impressive, at livingmorethanok.blogspot.com and counseling profession. If it’s a mutually and this information easily flows into the is president-elect of the Texas Career good fit, this will come across to you and discussion. Development Association. the interviewers. You may want to ask the person One caveat: Programs accredited by the w scheduling your interview about its Council for accreditation of Counseling Dear New Perspectives: structure. Processes vary tremendously, and Related Educational Programs pro- I am transferring from an online from small, intimate interviews to vide the “gold standard” in ensuring you counseling program to a classroom-based group activities to fishbowl chats will receive a quality graduate education program. I have an upcoming admissions where observers rank the interviewee’s that prepares you for a career as a profes- interview and usually interview well. performance. This can seem daunting, sional counselor. However, there are some The person setting up interviews says I but if you are prepared, this helps good counseling programs that are not don’t need to bring anything. Do you mediate anxiety. accredited. Research such programs very
16 | Counseling Today | September 2010 My life, my story
“My life, my story” profiles individuals new to the counseling profession who are proving to be exceptional. To nominate a student or new professional to be featured in this section, e-mail [email protected].
This month’s spotlight is on Kelly Greatest professional in a particular topic area increases my Emelianchik-Key, the recipient of the accomplishments: Winning the 2010 sense of accomplishment. American Counseling Association’s Glen E. Hubele National Graduate 2010 Glen E. Hubele National Student Award. My dissertation study Graduate Student Award. was an overwhelming and intensive project. It was great to be recognized for my work. Age: 28 Biggest challenge as a student: Current Residence: Dallas, Ga. Learning work limits and boundaries. There are always new opportunities Education: Ph.D. in counselor for research, professional conferences, education and supervision from Old committees and so forth. I am eager Dominion University; Ed.S. and to do everything but can’t do it all. As M.Ed. in mental health counseling a new professional, I need to pick and from the University of Florida; B.S. choose additional commitments while in psychology from Florida Atlantic utilizing time management to prevent University burnout. Words of advice for students and Current job status: I successfully new professionals: Take on research defended my dissertation at Old projects that you are passionate about Dominion University on July 14 no matter how large or difficult they and graduated summer 2010. I am appear. This has been my foundation to currently seeking employment as a stay energized about research projects counselor educator. I am involved in. Also, being invested
carefully to ensure the curriculum meets brainstorm transferable skills from your if youth agencies or shelters are looking licensure requirements in the state where wealth of experience in public relations. for volunteer help. Also take advantage of you will eventually practice. One idea that comes to mind: In public your school’s career services department. relations, you often deal with problems a It will be glad to help polish your w company is facing and look for positive résumé for your job or internship search. solutions. That is a close connection to Dear New Perspectives: Remember, you have much to offer in helping clients with problems. Brainstorm I am looking for résumé samples for your strengths and talents! u counseling students. Because many as many connections as possible. students do not have much experience Obtain a copy of You Majored in What? in the counseling field, I am wondering by Katharine Brooks. She has many Donjanea L. Fletcher is the column what to include on my résumé. I have helpful exercises concerned with looking editor for New Perspectives and a B.A. in political science and public at life and work connections that can be a student affairs counselor at the relations (PR) and 10 years of PR tied into résumés and interviews. It is University of West Georgia. If you experience. But what good is that? I want also helpful to look at sample résumés are a student or new counseling to volunteer in a counseling center to to gain ideas. Use your favorite search professional who would like to gain experience and need a résumé. I feel engine (I’m a Googler myself) and search submit a question or an article I have nothing to show and don’t know “résumés for beginning counselors.” You to this column, e-mail dfletche@ what to do. — Master’s Student, Texas will find some helpful links. One example westga.edu. Frank Coulson: In going through is ehow.com/how_2068828_write-resume- a career shift, it can be disconcerting counseling-job.html. Letters to the editor: viewing how your previous career fits To gain more experience, check with [email protected] your new direction. Take quiet time to your counseling program adviser to see
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 17 Private practice in Counseling - By Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook
More tips on making inroads with physicians
e wrote a section on the staff needs from you and spell out is particular appreciative of one outside marketing to physicians in exactly what you can offer to help them. provider who brings a coffee cake every Wour March 2010 column, Also discuss your niche and areas of Friday and asks only if the staff needs outlining what a practicing counselor expertise. more business cards. should do to increase physician referrals. If a counselor is new to the area or just Like Wallin, Frumkin emphasized that Since that time, we have heard from starting out, Wallin suggests it would counselors must present how they can several counselors asking for tips on be ideal for that counselor to locate his assist the practice in helping its patients. how to get in the door with physicians or her office in the same building with A brochure with a cover that lists the or office managers. We decided to go other medical practices. The counselor counselor’s areas of expertise is most to the source for answers, interviewing might even inquire about practicing in welcome, she said. a pediatrician in a medium-sized the same office with the medical staff, Asked if there are any “don’ts” for practice and an office manager from he said. counselors who want to market to group a large group practice with general It is important for counselors medical practices, she cautioned, “Don’t practitioners, nurse practitioners and to know their community well, be disappointed if the office is too busy an extensive office staff. Their answers including its social services, schools, to meet right then. We will appreciate proved very helpful. and institutions, Wallin said. He also your brochures and cards and your polite Dr. Paul Wallin has been a pediatrician suggests that counselors join community smile” as you ask to come back in two for more than 30 years. His first piece organizations such as the Rotary Club, weeks. Frumkin ended our conversation of advice was for counselors to make an the Lions Club or their local business by pointing out that it is annoying “eye-to-eye” contact. He believes it is association, pointing out that some of when outside professionals linger in important for counselors to “meet with the doctors in his office are members of the waiting room. Get in, make quick the doc” in person. In smaller practices these types of organizations. contact and get out. This is the best way such as his, which often feature a more Karen Frumkin is a certified medical to impress the staff, she said. informal atmosphere, he says the doctors practice executive. She manages a large Both of the professionals we are both the first line of contact and the group of six physicians, two nurse interviewed also said that when they decision makers. practitioners and some 15 support do make referrals, they always expect a As for agreeing to take a call from staff. She agrees with Wallin that it is follow-up progress report that they can or meet with a counselor, Wallin essential for counselors to make face- put in the patient’s chart. emphasized that timing is very to-face contact, but given the hustle w important. Consideration should be and bustle typical in a large medical given to how busy the office is early in practice, she says counselors should Q: I am an ACA member and have the day and again at the end of the day, always call ahead to the office manager three questions related to starting when physicians make their rounds at to schedule a meeting. Her office a private practice. First, what the hospital. Calling ahead or sending a meets with outside providers only on credentials do I need to be recognized note and dropping by with a light lunch Tuesdays and Thursdays at lunch. Even by health insurance companies if I or even some fruit when doctors take then, the doctors often “grab a bite and choose not to join insurance panels their midday break is a good idea, he head to their offices to make calls,” she but so my clients can fill out claims said. (“Bring some cookies as well,” he said. Given this reality, Frumkin said to be reimbursed? Second, if I choose added with a smile.) Being personable counselors should not be disappointed to practice at two different locations, and not too businesslike is another key, if it is not possible to give a true can I use insurance coverage for he said, adding that counselors “should presentation. Simply bring business reimbursement at one location and be very good at that.” cards and brochures, she suggested, not at the other? Lastly, if I do not When you meet with the staff, have a along with a salad from the local deli for accept insurance, should I download 10-minute presentation ready. Ask what everyone. She said the staff at her office the various insurance claim forms and
18 | Counseling Today | September 2010 complete my identifying information so clients can submit the forms? A: Let’s start with what your questions have in common and finish with specifics. With each of your questions, Call for ACA Editorial Board Reviewers you are considering being an “out-of- network” provider. An out-of-network If you would like to participate in provider is someone who has not the process of selecting the materials contracted with insurance companies produced by ACA, please note the for reimbursement at a predetermined following: fee. Some insurance companies will The ACA Publications Committee not reimburse for counseling services invites you to apply for a rendered by out-of-network providers. u You will be contacted prior to Insurance companies that do reimburse position on the Editorial receiving a proposal that needs re- out-of-network providers usually do so view to determine your availability at higher costs to the client. Moreover, Advisory Board. This review if you choose to be an out-of network u Most reviews require a 2-4 week provider, we recommend using a board serves in an advisory turnaround time superbill to help your clients bill their u You can expect to review approxi- own insurance. capacity to the ACA Director With that being said, in regard to mately six proposals per year your first question, you need to be of Publications and the ACA licensed at the tier necessary to practice u The initial term is for four years independently and have a tax ID Publications Committee. and you may be offered the oppor- number (see irs.gov) and a National tunity to serve for a second term Provider Identifier number (seenppes. Members review proposals cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/StaticForward. u You will receive one complimen- do?forward=static.instructions). In answer for publications and other tary copy of every book published to your second question, we recommend by ACA as compensation for your that you be consistent at both locations, media that are submitted to work on the board either in or out of network. Insurance The position requires a belief in companies with which you may contract ACA for possible inclusion can and probably will raise an issue if the peer review process, experience you try to do operate both ways. in the publishing program. and skill in reviewing both print Last but not least, if you are not an and electronic media, dedication to in-network provider, don’t waste your The Publications Committee promoting multicultural competence time filling out the CMS-1500 (the in counseling, objectivity, and the standard form for billing insurance). considers these reviews when ability to meet deadlines. If you Instead, just log on to ACA’s website at meet these qualifications, please send counseling.org and click on the members- determining which projects only “Private Practice Pointers” section a letter of interest outlining your or e-mail us at [email protected] to will be pursued by ACA. areas of expertise and publishing get a free superbill form. This form has and reviewing credentials, and your all the information necessary for your curriculum vitae to: clients to seek reimbursement from an out-of-network provider. The superbill Carolyn C. Baker is our most requested piece from ACA Director of Publications members. Enjoy! American Counseling Association w 5999 Stevenson Avenue High time to embrace technology Alexandria, Virginia 22304-3300 If you haven’t done so already, read [email protected] the article in the July issue of Counseling Today by Jim Paterson titled “The The deadline for applications right medicine.” In our opinion, the is September 8, 2010. Incomplete marketing information provided in applications will not be considered. the article is right on target. Moreover, the article’s emphasis on the need for
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 19 professional counselors to embrace and use technology in marketing is paramount today — and will be even more so in the future. Counseling and Psychotherapy: Perspective clients go to the Internet Theories and Interventions to search for mental health professionals and to Google the names of professional Fifth Edition counselors to whom they’ve been edited by David Capuzzi and referred. A bland website (or no website Douglas R. Gross at all) can negatively affect the building or maintaining of your practice. It pays to hire a professional website developer “Counseling and Psychotherapy to get your practice up and visible on features important theories and trends the Internet. not covered in other foundational w texts; the emphasis placed on social We will be presenting our private justice is especially noteworthy. practice workshop “Surviving or Overall, this book provides readers Thriving?” on the following dates: with a substantive foundation for their work as professional counselors.” n Sept. 11, Oak Brook, Ill. (call 800.493.4424 or visit imhca.org —Carl J. Sheperis, PhD for details) Walden University n Sept. 18-20, New Orleans This student-friendly and well designed introductory text (800.493.4424 or lacounseling.org) provides a thorough overview of 14 widely used theories. n Oct. 15, South Bend, Ind. Experts examine each theory from the perspective of its (counseloracademy.com) historical background, major constructs, goals, cross- cultural considerations, and limitations. Traditional n Oct. 16, Detroit and brief interventions integrate theory with specific (counseloracademy.com) counseling strategies, giving students further insight into n Oct. 18, Indianapolis the counseling process and guidance in developing their (counseloracademy.com) personal counseling style. A consistent case study across chapters reinforces the differences between theories and n Oct. 29, Sioux Falls, S.D. illustrates assessment of client concerns and treatment (sdcounseling.org) planning. Introductory chapters explore core dimensions n Dec. 4, Chicago and brief approaches to the helping relationship, and (800.493.4424 or imhca.org) u how to best deliver counseling and advocacy services to diverse client groups. A complimentary test manual and PowerPoints for instructors’ use are available by request on university letterhead.ÊÓ䣣ÊUÊ{änÊ«}ÃÊ
Order #72902 - ÊÇn£xxÈÓäÓÇ££ ÃÌÊ*ÀVi\ÊfÈ{°xÊ ACA Member Price: $46.95 ACA members can e-mail their questions to Robert J. Walsh Please include $8.75 for shipping of the first book and Norman C. Dasenbrook and $1.00 for each additional book. at [email protected] and access a series of “Private Practice Pointers” on the ACA website at American Counseling Association counseling.org. A podcast on starting 800-422-2648 x222 a private practice is also available for free to members on ACA’s website. counseling.org Letters to the editor: [email protected]
20 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Right now, a couple is making a breakthrough.
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Degree programs, delivery options, and start dates vary by campus. Argosy University, Washington DC is certified by SCHEV to operate in Virginia. Argosy University, Nashville is authorized for operation by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. Argosy University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602, 1.800.621.7440, www.ncahlc.org).
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 21 Resource Reviews - With Ruth Harper
The Art of Choosing accessible to anyone who has minimal Studies, conducted by Michael Marmot By Sheena Iyengar, 2010, Twelve, an imprint exposure to the areas her book covers. of University College London. Marmot’s of Grand Central Publishing, 352 pages, The author sees the drive to choose team followed a group of 10,000 civil $25.99, ISBN: 978-0446504102 as being fundamental to human nature. servants in Great Britain beginning in “What is This rings true to experience and helps 1967. They tracked these individuals for freedom? Freedom to explain how different political systems decades, comparing levels of compensation is the right to have developed and evolved over time. It to general health. “What affected people’s choose: the right to certainly contributes to our understanding health most in these studies wasn’t the create for oneself of why democratic forms of government actual level of control that people had in the alternatives of tend to be ultimately more successful their jobs, but the amount of control they choice. Without than those more totalitarian in nature. perceived themselves as having,” Iyengar the possibility of “When given the freedom to choose for reports. “A well-compensated executive choice a man is themselves, the social structures that people who feels helpless will suffer the same type not a man but a from other parts of the world create closely of negative physiological response as a low- member, an resemble the Western model,” Iyengar paid mailroom clerk.” instrument, a thing.” observes. “When people aren’t motivated to “The less control people had over their This quote by Archibald MacLeish, a challenge threats to freedom, what’s to stop work, the higher their blood pressure Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, begins The them from acquiescing to totalitarianism?” during work hours,” Iyengar continues. Art of Choosing, the new book by Sheena It is almost a truism that people like to “People with little control over their work Iyengar, a professor at the Columbia feel that they are in control of their destiny. also experienced more back pain, missed Business School. The idea that we are personally in charge of more days of work due to illness in general “We make choices and are in turn made the direction of our lives is more important and had higher rates of mental illness.” by them. In other words, choosing helps than the reality that lies behind our actual In Chapter 6, “Lord of the Things,” us create our lives,” Iyengar writes. “The circumstance. Without choice — or at least the author discusses the other end of the ability to choose well seems to depend in the perception that one has the ability to spectrum: choice overload. “When the no small part upon our knowing our own choose among various alternatives — it options are few, we can be happy with what minds.” is very difficult to sustain motivation. we choose since we are confident that it Iyengar has undergraduate degrees When individuals come to the conclusion is the best possible choice for us,” Iyengar in economics and psychology from the that they do not have control over their writes. “When the options are practically University of Pennsylvania and a doctorate personal affairs, they tend to experience infinite, though, we believe that the perfect in social psychology from Stanford heightened anxiety and stress, which can choice for us must be out there somewhere University. She is widely considered one of have a negative impact on overall health and that it’s our responsibility to find it.” the leading authorities on choice theory; and well-being. “It’s clear that after a certain point, the other researchers cite her work extensively. In Chapter 1, “The Call of the Wild,” amount of time and energy directed toward But even though Iyengar is a seasoned Iyengar describes the results of a long-term choosing counteracts the benefits of the academic, The Art of Choosing is readily research project known as the Whitewall choice,” she adds. “A focus on simply
22 | Counseling Today | September 2010 increasing the available choices can lead to realize that making societal. However, a person will need to decisions that harm rather than help. It was meaningful, appeal to both the rider (which provides well known even in ancient Greece that measurable and planning and direction) and the elephant we act against our better judgment with sustainable changes (which supplies the energy). In other disturbing regularity.” is a challenging words, the brain is not of one mind. Human beings tend to associate having yet essential For example, part of it may want to lose more options as intrinsically leading to a process for clients. weight, but the other part would like a more beneficial outcome — even when Understanding warm chocolate chip cookie. The elephant’s the evidence suggests otherwise. “One of the science of hunger for instant gratification may trump of the areas in which we greatly desire change has been the rider’s strength to think long term choice is health care, and we dislike having vague and based upon possibly faulty unless a person has a plan that satisfies both restrictions imposed,” Iyengar observes. assumptions perpetuated by poorly urges. This will require directing the rider “Health Maintenance Organizations do, researched theories. Switch, however, while motivating the elephant. indeed, offer fewer choices, but does that clarifies and explains the science of change Switch provides a myriad of inspiring necessarily lead to inferior health care?” in everyday, accessible language. Its and successful examples of changes made The truth seems to be that most of us content draws upon areas of mental health, by ordinary people. These changes offer would rather decide what we want on sociology and management and includes readers not only guidance but hope. our hamburger than to be given a steak case studies to illustrate conditions likely to This book can be extremely beneficial to without also being provided the same input support transformative change. counselors in a variety of contexts, because regarding how it is prepared. How does one bring about genuine all counselors work to help people achieve Toward the end of the book, Iyengar and lasting change? According to Chip desired change. offers a number of strategies designed Heath, professor of organizational behavior to improve the quality of our decision- in the Graduate School of Business at Reviewed by Mark J. Britzman, professor making processes. “Science can assist us in Stanford University, and Dan Heath, a of counseling and human development, becoming more skillful choosers, but at its former researcher at Harvard Business South Dakota State University, and Kylee core, choice remains an art.” So if you are School and now a senior fellow at Duke Britzman, psychology major, University of someone who has a difficult time deciding University’s CASE Center, the rational Nebraska-Lincoln. u what to do, you might findThe Art of side of an individual (likened by these Choosing to be a particularly enlightening authors to a rider on an elephant) needs resource. You just have to make the choice to be directed. This rider can be helped to buy it. by learning to look at past successes, Reviewed by Aaron W. Hughey, professor script important moves and point to of counseling and student affairs, Western a desired destination. Motivating the Kentucky University. emotional brain, represented by the elephant, is accomplished by finding Switch: How to Change Things an optimal feeling, shrinking change to Ruth Harper is a professor of When Change Is Hard improve self-efficacy and aligning desired counseling and human resource By Chip Heath & Dan Heath, 2010, outcomes. Together, the rider and the development at South Dakota State Crown Publishing, 320 pages, $26, ISBN: elephant need to determine an optimal University. Contact her at Ruth. 978-0385528757 path that often requires changing one’s [email protected]. Switch: How to Change Things When environment, building successful habits Change Is Hard is a compelling narrative and accumulating successes. Letters to the editor: that provides important insight on how to This book can facilitate change at every [email protected] make effective changes in life. Counselors level — individual, organizational and
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 23 Spotlight on Journals - By Sheri Bauman
Summer reading overview
any of us on an academic Counselor Edition–Revised (MAKSS) to Education Profession”) also reflected calendar look forward to assess multicultural knowledge, awareness the theme of diversity. They noted the Mthe slower pace of summer and skills as rated by participants and low number of male African American to catch up on reading. For some, the Quick Discrimination Index (QDI) counselor educators employed in U.S. that means lighter fare that provides cognitive attitudes and affective attitudes universities — a number that is far from welcome diversion; for others, this is an scales to measure attitudes toward racial reflective of that demographic group in opportunity to catch up on the journals diversity. At pretest, no differences were the general population. that have been accumulating while other detected on the dependent measures for The authors observed that it is a obligations capture available time. Both the treatment and control groups. At challenge to recruit more African types of reading were on my summer list, post-test, the treatment group members American men to faculty counseling but I will spare readers of this column had significantly higher scores than they positions in part because there are few my thoughts on the novels I selected and had at pretest on all three MAKSS scales African American men in the academic comment instead on research articles and on the QDI cognitive attitudes scale. pipeline for counseling at earlier levels in recent issues of journals produced by No such differences were found in the of education. Nevertheless, the authors divisions of the American Counseling control group. offer recommendations for increasing the Association. Noting that the affective attitudes scale representation of African American males A course in social and cultural diversity score on the QDI was not changed by in counselor education, including giving is one of the components of almost all the course experience, the researchers more than lip service to actively recruiting U.S. counseling programs, regardless speculated that perhaps the homogenous and retaining individuals from this of whether they are accredited by the student body — and the community in demographic group, which might mean Council for Accreditation of Counseling which the study was conducted — did using strategies such as emergency hires and Related Educational Programs. The not allow students to have sufficient and policies that allow for quick decisions demographic makeup of counseling exposure to other racial or ethnic groups. on hiring. students is such that White (and female) The course reaction survey administered Typically, the few African American students often constitute the majority in with the other measures at the end of men seeking counselor educator positions classes. As a result, most research on the the course included comments related to are highly sought after. Institutions that effectiveness of diversity courses has been insufficient exposure to diverse groups. have cumbersome and time-consuming conducted with largely White samples. This can be a challenge for counselor processes for hiring may miss out on A study by Ginger Dickson, Beverly educators in communities that lack opportunities to enrich their programs Argus-Calvo and Nancy Garcia Tafoya, diversity; instructors must seek creative with a male African American counselor “Multicultural Counselor Training strategies to provide this important educator. The authors also discussed Experiences: Training Effects and exposure. The researchers concluded retention of these faculty members, who Perceptions of Training Among a Sample that their findings show different may face challenges adjusting to the of Predominantly Hispanic Students,” groups and individuals may experience academy without support. in the June 2010 issue of Counselor a multicultural course differently. They Single women planning Education and Supervision examined the recommend using a variety of teaching for multiple roles effects of a multicultural training course methods and student assignments to I was intrigued by Youn Jee Woo and on self-reported multicultural counseling ensure that all students benefit from such Ki-Hak Lee’s article “Cluster Types competencies and attitudes toward racial courses. diversity. Unlike most prior studies, of Attitudes Toward Multiple Role this sample was 93 percent Hispanic Attracting and retaining Planning of Single, Korean, Female and 80 percent female. Two sections male African American Undergraduates” in the June 2010 issue of a multicultural course made up the counselor educators of the Journal of Employment Counseling. treatment group, while students in a A qualitative study by Michael Brooks First, although the study participants section of a human development course and Sam Steen in the July 2010 issue of were single Korean female college who had not taken the multicultural the Journal of Multicultural Counseling students, I found the topic applicable to course served as the control group. and Development (“‘Brother Where females in the United States and many The researchers used the Multicultural Art Thou?’ African American Male other developed countries. Despite Awareness, Knowledge and Skills Survey– Instructors’ Perceptions of the Counselor advances in gender equity in the United
24 | Counseling Today | September 2010 States, differences in pay and expectations had significantly lower perceptions of for men and women still exist. Second, I career barriers than the other groups. found the authors’ analysis illuminating. The researchers suggested their The issue they investigated was the findings substantiate the influence of Call for Nominations attitude of single women toward planning Confucianism (which includes beliefs for multiple roles. that women should not work outside the for Committee In their sample of 213 young women home) in Korean culture. Their work also (mean age = 23.21), 61 percent intended serves as a reminder to career counselors Appointments to obtain a job upon completing their that many dimensions are involved in education, 38 percent planned to pursue career choices and decisions, making it further education and only 0.5 percent important to consider all dimensions Nominations open wanted to be a homemaker. Interestingly, when working with clients. for ACA Committees 78 percent of respondents intended to be I would add that cultural expectations ACA President-Elect Don W. involved in their career throughout their play an important role in women’s career lifetime, 15 percent intended to interrupt Locke is seeking nominations for decision making, and these apply to all American Counseling Association their career from their first pregnancy cultural groups. Familiarity with the until their children were grown, and committee appointments. He will cultures of clients can help the counselor be appointing professional members 1 percent said they would end their career ask the right questions to assess the for each committee who will serve with their first pregnancy. degree to which cultural expectations a three-year term, and a student Participants completed a number of affect a given client. In a period of representative to each committee for measures, including one that assessed the economic distress, there is likely to be a one-year term. degree to which the person anticipated elevated anxiety over making the correct multiple role conflicts being a barrier career choice. For women (in Korea and Positions on the following com- to career attainment. After performing mittees will be available beginning preliminary analyses, the researchers elsewhere), career planning must take July 1, 2011: Awards, Branch conducted an exploratory cluster analysis into account the pressures of assuming Development, Bylaws and Policies, of the scales (Knowledge/Certainty, multiple roles and the individual’s capacity to manage those pressures. Ethics, Graduate Student, Human Commitment, Independence and Rights, International, Interprofes- Involvement) on the Attitude Toward w sional, Professional Standards, Public Multiple Role Planning and identified Awareness and Support, Public Policy five clusters. (For readers unfamiliar with and Legislation, Publications, and In the spirit of full disclosure, Ginger this analysis, a very basic explanation is Research and Knowledge. that the clusters are participants with Dickson is now at New Mexico State University, where I earned my doctorate. similar patterns of scores; in factor ACA members may nominate I do not know her personally. Sam Steen, analysis, the factors are items on a themselves or be nominated by other measure that are similar or seem to on the other hand, is a valued friend. And ACA members. Nominations are “hang together.”) In the next step, the I am particularly fond of cluster analysis, due December 1, 2010, and must clusters were compared on measures which is not very commonly done. That be sent to Holly Clubb at hclubb@ of general self-efficacy and social self- said, I do not believe any of these factors counseling.org. efficacy because prior research found that biased my choice of articles to highlight women’s self-efficacy affects their attitude in this column. u To receive a nomination packet or toward career. The authors explained for more information about the nom- this may be because, despite changes in Sheri Bauman is an associate inations process, call Holly Clubb at cultural attitudes, career achievement is professor and director of the 1-800-347-6647, ext. 212 or e-mail still considered gender atypical behavior, school counseling program in the her at [email protected]. The thus women would need a level of University of Arizona Department packets are also available on the ACA confidence in their abilities to contend of Educational Psychology and Website at www.counseling.org. with critical reactions. editor of the Journal for Specialists Clusters were significantly different in Group Work. Contact her at on general self-efficacy and social self- [email protected]. efficacy. The cluster characterized by low commitment to seeking multiple- To subscribe to the journals role lifestyles and high independence in mentioned in this article, call making decisions about multiple roles 800.633.4931. showed lower self-efficacy scores on both measures. The cluster characterized by Letters to the editor: high knowledge/certainty about being [email protected] able to manage multiple-role challenges
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 25 ACA Blog Sampler - By Pete Saunders
What I have learned from Mr. Palsy
ave you had the privilege of Believe it or not, my son is actually wants. For example, because of fine meeting and/or interacting helping me tremendously on my journey motor skills issues, he has a hard time Hwith a special needs child on to becoming a more effective counselor. with activities that involve placing small a professional or personal level? How did I believe every successful counselor objects in containers. After awhile, he’ll you find the experience? What did you possesses and has mastered the common get angry and start crying, while at the learn? yet vital skills of active listening, honest same time still trying to complete the My wife and I are the proud and communication and heartfelt empathy. task. Sometimes we help, other times we sometimes “confused” parents of a My son forces me to listen not just with don’t. We don’t because we believe it is soon-to-be 4-year-old boy. Our son my ears but with my eyes and my heart; important for him to complete (certain) was officially diagnosed with cerebral to communicate not with the main tasks on his own without the help of his palsy (aka Mr. Palsy) shortly after birth. purpose of being understood but to parents. This is very hard for us to do, This means he has difficulty walking, understand; and to accept not only where especially when we see that he is clearly talking and performing “simple” he is due to his condition (or whatever struggling. everyday activities. Sometimes it is politically correct term you prefer) but Don’t we sometimes wish we could extremely challenging, especially when also where he can go because of his do certain things for our clients, even if communicating. He still communicates determination. Seeing him struggle with only to prove positive results are possible? by crying (not so much anymore), “simple” tasks hurts and, at times, I wish Sometimes our clients are simply pointing and babbling. This can be quite things were different. reluctant to take that first step toward frustrating for all of us, especially for him. It’s amazing how he tries to do recovery and healing, but we realize that We certainly understand some of his basic everything by himself despite Mr. Palsy’s this is a journey they must complete on messages and requests, but most of the constant presence and interruptions. their own with the tools we equip them time we just have to pretend as though He only asks for our help after trying with. My son also helps me realize that we understand exactly what he is saying. for maybe 10 times. I really admire this all of us move at a different pace on our We find that he is still very clever and about him. He does get quite irritable journey. The fact that some clients take independent despite these setbacks. when things are not going the way he a longer time to start their journey than
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26 | Counseling Today | September 2010 others do is no indication that they will not complete it. My wife and I try not to let our son feel that because other kids Group Microskills: can do something easier and faster than he can, that he should not complete the Culture-Centered Group task. The interesting thing is that when Process and Strategies I speak with other parents of a special needs child, they always comment on the joy they experience from having that Allen E. Ivey, child in their life. They rarely mention Paul B. Pedersen, the extra care it takes to parent such a and Mary Bradford Ivey child. To them, it is more than worth it. The common consensus is that these children are placed in our lives to teach us life’s true meaning — how to love, live, “I can think of no pray, laugh, cry, learn, hope. That it’s the other group text where little things that make the big difference. multicultural ideas are Parenting a special needs child is not something I would consider a walk so thoroughly infused … in the park. Neither is working with A fresh perspective on our clients in helping them find hope, skill development for embrace possibilities and achieve success. group leadership.” However, with all its risks, fears, dreams, disasters (for some, literally a lifetime’s worth), small achievements (most often —Rex Stockton, EdD invisible to the “normal” eye) and loss, Indiana University at Bloomington the journey is worth it nonetheless. Our son is definitely the joy of our This book provides a comprehensive foundation for training life. He makes us so happy and so very proud. I will not go so far as to say he will culturally competent group leaders. The specificity of the always make us proud because some kids microskills approach allows both beginning and advanced for various reasons do take sabbaticals students to see group work in action and to master its from reality (not sure if special needs kids are immune to this). However, God complexities at a deeper level. Clear, step-by-step learning smiled on us the day our son entered activities are woven throughout the text to facilitate specific our lives. To meet my son, visit http:// skill development and a solid understanding of the basics fatheringhappiness.blogspot.com/. of group leadership. Topics covered include identifying and w Visit my.counseling.org/ to read ACA demonstrating basic listening, processing, influencing, and blog posts on a wide variety of topics of reflecting skills; managing conflict via confrontation; and interest to counseling professionals and honing focusing skills. counselors-in-training. u Copublished by MicroTraining Associates, Inc. and ACA 2008 | 307 pages | ISBN 978-0-917276-15-6 Order #72872 | List Price and ACA Member Price: $49.00 Pete Saunders is a graduate student at Capella University. He also Please include $8.75 for shipping of the first book and writes a weekly blog and conducts $1.00 for each additional copy. a weekly video interview on manhood at razorsanddiapers.com American Counseling Association nÊäÊäÊÊ{ÊÓÊÓÊÊÓÊÈÊ{ÊnÊÊÝÊÓÊÓÊÓÊUÊVÊÊÕÊÊÃÊiÊÊÊÊ}Ê°ÊÊÀÊ}
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 27 The give-and-take of group work offers clients a nurturing environment for growth, change, renewal and connection By Lynne Shallcross
our father’s a jerk.” the message loud and clear. “When you members discuss aspects of these films. In many elementary schools, say that to me, it makes me feel really Kahn says he looks for movies that have “Ysuch a comment might be bad,” the boy told his father. “And I’d like multiple story lines and an array of rewarded with a swift trip to the you not to say that to me anymore.” characters, such as Dead Poets Society or principal’s office. But in Janice DeLucia- It was a poignant moment exemplifying Fried Green Tomatoes, so there’s a good Waack’s group for children of divorced the power of groups, says DeLucia- chance that some part of the story or parents, the statement stood as nothing Waack, a member of the American characters will resonate with clients. short of a breakthrough. Counseling Association and a past Kahn, who also uses film in workshops DeLucia-Waack, associate professor and president of the Association for Specialists he offers for other therapists on ethics, program director of school counseling in in Group Work, a division of ACA. “I grief and self-care, recalls one group mem- the Department of Counseling, School could say to this kid 10 times, ‘It’s not ber who watched a movie and returned and Educational Psychology at the your fault,’ but the other kids told him, to tell the group she hated it but couldn’t University of Buffalo, SUNY, had played and they told him clearly — ‘You need to figure out why. After the group discussion, a song called “Is It My Fault?” for her say something to your dad.’” she realized the film spoke to an experi- group of second-graders. When the song Clear data exist that groups are more ence she’d had as a teenager that she’d was finished, she asked the kids whether effective than individual therapy for never shared with anyone. Films often any of them thought their parents’ children and adolescents, according to provide a certain level of safety that al- divorce was their fault. DeLucia-Waack, who consults for school lows clients to share, Kahn says, because One hand shot up. “I know it’s my districts across New York state on how to when clients talk about a movie, they are fault,” the little boy said. “My father tells lead psychoeducational groups, among in some ways “removed” from themselves. me it is every Friday when he picks me other things. In these psychoeducational But at the same time, he says, the right up from school.” Before DeLucia-Waack groups, kids learn skills such as anger movie can effectively address issues in cli- could swallow the lump in her throat, management, stress management, coping, ents’ lives. “Film just has a way of winding one of the other group members spoke up communication, problem solving and its way past some of the defenses we have with unabashed honesty. “Your father’s a conflict resolution. “We’re teaching a set set up as individuals and can bring up jerk,” the boy’s peer told him. “When you of skills that they’re going to need for the other things [clients] were pushing away get in the car on Friday, you tell him big rest of their lives,” DeLucia-Waack says. or things they didn’t know were there.” people don’t get divorced because of little Although the research differs on group In Medford, Ore., Jeff Borchers coleads kids.” effectiveness for adults depending on the groups through an employee assistance Realizing he was the only one who had type of group and intervention, many program (EAP) at Asante Health System. responded to his peer’s painful admission, practitioners agree that group work is An ACA member who also maintains a the group member caught himself and a valuable tool. ACA member Michael private practice in Medford, Borchers said, “Well, that’s my opinion. Everyone Kahn regularly runs personal growth says his groups are composed mainly of else should give their advice, too.” After groups that incorporate film out of his overworked nurses. “Nursing is the place the other kids in the group added their private practice in Charlotte, N.C. At the where the rubber meets the road,” he own words of advice, the boy who felt at first meeting, he asks each group member says. “[Nurses are in] extremely stressful fault for his parents’ divorce practiced a to bring in and share with the other positions, and every year, they’re asked few phrases out loud to say to his father. members a movie clip that resonates with to do more with less.” Borchers’ groups, The following week, the boy reported the individual in some way. Throughout which average about 12 members, are back to the group. No, he hadn’t told his succeeding group meetings, Kahn assigns heavily focused on psychoeducation and dad he was a jerk, but he had conveyed particular movies to watch, and group conflict management.
28 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Many times, Borchers says, the types of groups: task groups, counseling experiencing. “To be around other folks groups are convened over a clash of groups and psychotherapy groups. No who are experiencing the same thing gives new versus old — new nurses who are matter the group’s purpose and nature, them so much relief,” Kahn says. feeling overwhelmed reacting to more counselor practitioners agree the benefits Larry Tyson, associate professor and experienced nurses who have been on can be wide ranging. program coordinator of the University the job for many years and might be In addition to his film group, Kahn of Alabama at Birmingham Counselor case-hardened and gruff in their personal runs a group called Empty Arms at a local Education Program, agrees that groups skills. The nursing profession has agency for parents who have experienced are effective in defraying feelings of changed quite a bit through the years, a miscarriage, a stillbirth or the death of isolation. “It allows clients to realize Borchers says, focusing more on quality an infant. Groups often focus on topics that they obviously are not alone in patient care at the interpersonal level, such as anger, relationships with friends, their situation or their dilemma. They which involves a more respectful way of thoughts of having another child and are able to listen to people who have communicating. spirituality. Kahn says the biggest benefit similar issues and struggles, as well as “There can be a lot of tears and the group provides is a safe place where similar successes or possible successes.” heartache over that,” Borchers says. members will be understood. “They’re Tyson, a member of ACA, says groups “Older nurses came up in a completely with a group of people who get it, who have the added advantage of offering different environment. It’s a clash of understand what this loss means, who multiple perspectives rather than the sole cultures and a clash of generations. The understand that it is a loss,” he says. perspective of the counselor provided in way to resolve it ultimately comes down “They don’t have to explain themselves or individual counseling. to empowering the younger nurses to be defend themselves.” Another welcome by-product of group able to speak up and take a stand when The group can be especially helpful to work is the confidence clients can gain they feel they need to and educating those dealing with miscarriage, which from helping their fellow group members, the older nurses on a different style of parts of society don’t view as a legitimate Tyson adds. “It can allow people to serve communicating.” loss, Kahn says. As an added benefit, as models for other folks who might not You are not alone group members can see what other be at the same place that an individual In addition to psychoeducational mothers and fathers are going through, is. They can share their experiences with groups such as Borchers’ and DeLucia- giving each individual a better perspective other people. They can talk about the Waack’s, ASGW identifies three other on what his or her own spouse might be struggles or the successes they have had.
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September 2010 | Counseling Today | 29 So just as for the person who’s hearing and to hear varied feedback. “To have it this, for the person who’s talking about it come from a group, particularly someone and sharing, it allows them to acquire a who’s struggling with the same issues you sense of enhanced esteem. It gives them are, that power can’t be duplicated in increased awareness of their own self and individual therapy,” Borchers says. possibilities because they’ve been down Shedding light on challenges that road.” Oberlin has found group therapy to be Loriann Oberlin, who works in private particularly beneficial for children and practice in North Potomac, Md., has teens with social skills deficits, learning experience running various types of challenges, slow processing speeds, groups, including groups for high school attentional concerns, anxiety or mild to girls, women and elementary and middle moderate mood disorders, as well as those school children, as well as separation and going through situational stressors, such divorce groups for adults and children. as their parents’ divorce. Read “For children or teens trying to connect “For adults,” she says, “[groups] can in a world where they may feel on the help through a situational stressor such Counseling Today, outside looking in, group therapy allows as divorce or life transitions, as well as them that chance to feel accepted and lack of connection, low self-esteem and understood and to make social mistakes for obtaining skill sets — dealing with but to also have thoughtful corrections difficult people, learning to be assertive, and chances for a ‘redo,’” says Oberlin, overcoming anxiety and sadness.” an ACA member. “Adults, after working Tyson agrees that group work has Take for a while with a therapist, may wish to an array of benefits for diverse client the CT Learning Exam, move beyond one-on-one counseling and populations, ranging from elementary solicit peer feedback and connections. school students to inpatient residential They usually feel good as well when they treatment clients. But it’s crucial, he contribute to the group’s process and emphasizes, that the therapist consider know they’ve helped a member in some the emotional stability and cognitive particular way.” ability of each potential member of the Earn Oberlin points to Irvin Yalom’s group. “Good group therapists know Continuing therapeutic factors of group therapy, that evaluating and screening potential Education Credit which, she says, explain the benefits that members is always helpful.” group work can offer. Among these are Even group work proponents question improved social skills (group members the effectiveness of groups with clients in hear feedback on how they come across to crisis. “If [clients] are needing the focus others) and instillation of hope (members to be very much on them because they’re ACA is making continuing find through group peers that there is in a place of crisis or their needs are such education credit accessible hope for their situation). Another factor, that they would have a difficult time Oberlin says, is universality, or the feeling having the spotlight focused on other and affordable through your that “we’re all in this together.” The folks, then individual [therapy] would reading of Counseling Today. information-giving aspect of groups helps probably be the right way to go,” Kahn clients learn from one another, while says. DeLucia-Waack, an ACA fellow, Watch the October edition the altruism factor offers each person agrees. Anyone who is actively in crisis or of Counseling Today for the a chance to help their peers within the suicidal is not a good candidate for group introduction of CT Learning. group. work, she says, adding that clients must Borchers, who has also been exposed have the capacity for introspection to be to the positive power of groups during in a group. his three decades as a karate instructor, For all its benefits, experts acknowledge has witnessed powerful transformations that group work also poses some at the group level that he doubts would challenges. One of the toughest have transpired in a one-on-one setting might come at the start — finding with a client and a counselor. For one enough clients to put a group together. thing, there’s safety in groups, he says, Sometimes, Kahn says, fellow therapists because clients can “lay low” if they feel might overlook groups as a resource and it necessary. But groups also offer the refer their clients elsewhere, so it’s up added benefit of multiple perspectives to counselors who lead groups to keep and life experiences, allowing a client to their work in front of their peers. Social/ share what he or she is going through professional networking sites such as
30 | Counseling Today | September 2010 LinkedIn are one possible way to let leader intervening in a circumstance such colleagues know about the groups you as this, Tyson recommends letting group offer, he says. members talk about what’s impeding NATIONALLY Getting clients to show up is a their progress and encouraging everyone challenge shared by individual and to participate in overcoming the problem. CERTIFIED group therapists, Tyson says. Of course, In school settings, time is of the NATIONALLY PARENTING a no-show in group work affects not just essence and can therefore be a hurdle to CERTIFIED the individual client but fellow group effective group work, DeLucia-Waack COORDINATOR members. If a client is habitually late or says, adding that it is essential to have PARENTING misses multiple sessions yet maintains teachers, principals and other school personnel who are flexible. Educating (NCPC) he or she is committed to the group, COORDI NATOR
Tyson suggests that confrontation at the people about the benefits of group work CREDENTIALING CRITERIA is another challenge, DeLucia-Waack group level can be helpful. Tyson says he (NC PC)
says. “Sometimes people feel like it’s Doctoral or Masters Degree would ask the group’s members whether they think the client is committed to the second-rate therapy,” she says. Clients CREDENTIALINGAND; CRITERIA group in light of that individual’s actions. themselves might question why they are (ONE of the following): Doctoral or Masters Degree Let the group, rather than the therapist, being put into a group when a counselor (1) State Licensed or AND; confront the client, he advises. could work with them one-on-one and (2) Current member of a (ONE of the following): “For me, one of the challenges — give their issue undivided attention. “You mental health association or (1) State Licensed or though I try to head it off with a good have to do a lot of education for people as (3) Two years working with a (2) Current member of a discussion and handout about groups to why, sometimes, groups are even more family court system mental health association or beforehand — occurs when parents of effective,” she says. AND; A minimum of two (3)years Two experienceyears working working with a group members, or even adult group Getting started with familyat least court five setssystem of high members themselves, decide they will no Tyson, who coedited Critical Incidents conflictAND; Aor minimum litigating ofparents, two longer be in group and they don’t wish , published by ACA in Group Counseling yearsproviding experience services working to plan their last day in group,” Oberlin in 2004, remembers having a strong withdescribed at least five by sets various of high says. “Instead, they make the decision and interest in groups almost from the outset. conflict or litigating parents, sometimes inform the leader the same designations, “I noticed that about myself early in INCLUDING,providing services BUT NOT day as members.” That doesn’t allow for my career, that while I liked individual described by various proper termination, she says. LIMITED TO: counseling, I was also fascinated with parentingdesignations, coordinator, Although many clients and parents how people interacted in a group.” He INCLUDING, BUT NOT of clients respect the rules Oberlin sets reunification therapist, believes that possessing a high level of familyLIMITED coordinator, TO: out at the beginning of the group, some interest is crucial to being an effective parenting coordinator, don’t. “It can come across negatively to mediator, etc.; group leader. Although counselor ANDreunification; 2 Endorsement therapist, Memos terminate abruptly,” she says. “These educators can teach students group skills, family coordinator, clients don’t recognize how such a quick ______he advises counselors-in-training and mediator, etc.; decision impacts others. In one case, a established practitioners to make sure AND; 2 Endorsement Memos VANGUARD PERIOD girl came back to group the next week in their heart is in group counseling before ______OFFERS “FAST-TRACK” tears because she really felt connected and following that path. APPLICATION AND understood by this person [who left the For counselors innately interested in DISCOUNTEDVANGUARD PROCESSING PERIOD group suddenly]. It was all so quick and group work, Tyson says the first step is OFFERS “FAST-TRACK” should have been planned better for all ______educating themselves. He says running APPLICATION AND concerned.” successful groups requires a specific skill DISCOUNTED PROCESSING Clients’ individual issues can also pose set in terms of theoretical orientation, Application______and challenges when putting people together techniques used in a group setting, Full Information at: in a group setting, Tyson says. That’s expected outcomes and the skills required Application and why it’s extremely important for the to address the specific issues that clients www.pacehelp.com group leader to understand what each bring with them to group. “Being a Full Information at: client is bringing to the table, he says. group therapist requires a whole different www.pacehelp.comPROFESSIONAL ACADEMY OF For instance, if a client is particularly set of skills — some complementary CUSTODY EVALUATORS (PACE) ~SINCE 1991~ manipulative in a one-on-one setting with to individual but [others] additional to PROFESSIONAL ACADEMY OF a counselor, the counselor can confront individual. You just can’t go out and do CUSTODY800-633 EVALUATORS-PACE (7223 (PACE)) the client about it and they can examine group therapy.” The difference between ~SINCE 1991~ the issue together. But if that client enters individual and group counseling, Tyson 800-633-PACE (7223) a group setting, the manipulation can says, is related to managing a set of affect everyone. “Everything is multiplied individuals who might have a common by the number of people you have in the issue but also possess different methods of room,” Tyson says. Rather than the group processing information, sharing thoughts
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 31 and feelings, and accepting feedback. University Counselor Education environment to lead groups. I’m not Borchers agrees. “The skill set for group Department, likens the skills needed convinced that’s what you need. People work includes, among other things, a to lead a group to those needed to lead who lead groups and want to do it well subset of what I’d call leadership and an orchestra. “Perhaps as group leaders, have to really work at becoming a good team-building skills. That’s because I we are somewhat like conductors who group facilitator. And that requires more believe the therapeutic alliance, once facilitate the rhythm and the beat, as it is than just one course in your master’s made, is often best spent in motivating up to each group member to give voice degree.” clients toward change. In individual to their experiences,” she says. “So, just Tyson remembers an instance in which counseling, it’s usually the therapist’s job because someone knows how to play one of his school counseling interns told alone to provide that kind of incentive. an instrument very well does not mean him that another intern on the same But in groups, there’s always the that he or she can immediately become project site from another university was possibility that motivation comes from a conductor. The ‘how’ of group work is running a group for children who were another elsewhere in the group. I believe equally important to what happens and displaying self-injurious behavior. “The Yalom suggests that we facilitators look what we need to know and do.” issue, to me, was how competent are you for a natural leader to emerge — one who At times, counselors might be thrown to run that kind of group?” he says. “Not allies with the therapist. Whether this into the deep end with group work before just in group counseling techniques, but happens or not, our job is to prepare the they’re ready, Tyson says. “What I have what do you know about that group? seedbed for unexpected growth, however found as a counselor educator and as Do you feel trained to understand the chaotic it may appear at first.” a practitioner is that there are a lot of psychology of that group of people? ASGW President Bogusia Skudrzyk, people who maybe only have one group Being competent about your techniques associate professor in the Fairfield class and are called upon in their work and the population you’re serving is very
Group work resources
All of the following books and DVDs by Carmen F. Salazar, features with a complete recording of a can be ordered directly through the contributions from experts in group six-session counseling group with American Counseling Association’s work, multiculturalism and social fifth-grade students ($199). online bookstore at counseling.org/ justice ($35 for ACA members; $45 publications or by calling 800.422.2648 for nonmembers). n Leading Groups With Adolescents ext. 222. (order #78208), presented by Janice n School Counselors Share Their n Group Microskills: Culture-Centered DeLucia-Waack, Allen Segrist Favorite Group Activities: A Guide Group Process and Strategies (order and Arthur M. Horne, is a DVD to Choosing, Planning, Conducting #72872), by Allen E. Ivey, Paul B. showing nationally recognized group and Processing (order #72885), Pedersen and Mary Bradford Ivey, experts working with high school edited by Louisa L. Foss, Judy provides a foundation for training students ($199). Green, Kelly Wolfe-Stiltner and culturally competent group leaders Janice L. DeLucia-Waack, offers 67 ($49). n Group Work: Leading in the group activities for working with Here and Now (order #79816), n Critical Incidents in Group children and adolescents in schools presented by Peg Carroll, is a DVD Counseling (order #72812), edited ($35 for ACA members; $45 for demonstrating how group members by Lawrence E. Tyson, Rachelle nonmembers). learn to participate in the “here and Pérusse and Jim Whitledge, provides a means to explore the difficult n Group Work Experts Share Their now process” ($150). Favorite Activities: A Guide to decisions that group leaders face n Developmental Aspects of Group and the learning opportunities they Choosing, Planning, Conducting and Counseling: Process, Leadership create for further discussion ($29.95 Processing, revised edition (order and Supervision (order #79817), for ACA members; $44.95 for #78070), edited by Janice DeLucia- nonmembers). Waack, Karen H. Bridbord, Jennifer presented by Rex Stockton, is a Sue Kleiner and Amy G. Nitza, DVD presenting three easy-to-teach The following resources are produced presents more than 50 creative segments on the most critical areas by the Association for Specialists in group activities ($35 for ACA in group counseling ($150). Group Work, a division of ACA: members; $45 for nonmembers). n Group Work Experts Share Their In addition, membership in ASGW Favorite Multicultural Activities: n Celebrating Cultural Diversity: A offers a wide range of other resources A Guide to Diversity-Competent Group for Fifth-Graders (order and benefits, including theJournal for Choosing, Planning, Conducting and #78215), presented by Sheri Specialists in Group Work. For more Processing (order #72891), edited Bauman and Sam Steen, is a DVD information, visit asgw.org.
32 | Counseling Today | September 2010 important. If you’re not competent, try Effective group leadership not to run the group until you become The first piece of advice DeLucia- competent.” Waack gives to counselors who are ready Tyson and DeLucia-Waack agree that to lead groups: Be yourself. “If you’re not ASGW is a particularly helpful resource genuine, particularly with adolescents, for counselors interested in or already they won’t believe you and they won’t doing group work. DeLucia-Waack engage with you.” DeLucia-Waack points to three sets of standards — remembers showing her true colors and training standards, diversity-competency singing along to some of the songs that standards and best practices — available were being played during a group session as free downloads on the ASGW website for fifth-graders. The verdict on her vocal at asgw.org. ASGW has also worked with skills? The kids laughed at her. ACA to produce activity books, DVDs Instead of feeling embarrassed or and other literature to help counselors, choosing to suppress her singing, says DeLucia-Waack, who coedited the DeLucia-Waack remained open and revised edition of Group Work Experts genuine with the group members, telling Share Their Favorite Activities: A Guide them that she really enjoyed singing even to Choosing, Planning, Conducting and though she was bad at it. What resulted Processing as well as School Counselors was a great conversation about various Share Their Favorite Group Activities: things the kids didn’t think they could do A Guide to Choosing, Planning, well but wanted to do regardless. “Those Conducting and Processing. are kind of teachable moments in that Counselors should also take continuing way,” she says. education classes and workshops and Oberlin says counselors should consistently reflect on their progress, understand up front that group work Tyson says. In addition, many ACA is time-intensive. It goes well beyond members and other professionals in getting a group together, putting a board the field are highly acclaimed group game in front of group members and therapists, Tyson says, so it would pay seeing where it all leads, she cautions. “It’s for counselors interested in group work not for someone who doesn’t wish to put to identify those experts and read their planning into it. And, of course, there work. Then, he says, counselors should are progress notes for each individual and secure supervision. “Find someone you claims if you submit to insurance. There’s can talk to who is an experienced group much time spent organizing, with phone leader and whom you can relate to,” he calls to establish a group and extra work if says. Another helpful tactic, DeLucia- you must cancel or call it off.” Waack says, is for newer group counselors Being even-keeled is another quality to colead groups with more experienced that helps in leading a group, Borchers professionals. says. “Staying centered and calm is Nothing can replace the value of a crucial ingredient to this work, practice and supervision when it comes particularly if you’re new to it.” to group work, Tyson says. “You have But there’s no substitute for being to get on the bike and do it. You’ve got prepared, he says, both emotionally and to practice. You’re going to mess up, but for your clients in their environment. you still have to get on the bike again.” For example, when running EAP groups, Getting past the initial hesitancy to lead Borchers says it’s imperative that he a group is a big step, he says, and that knows who the group members are and is exactly where supervision comes in, what they do in their jobs, the stressors because the relationship allows a new present in their workplace and the group counselor to talk with an expert specialized language they use in their about what goes on in the group. jobs. “Groups have the ability to set their “Let the challenges be your teacher,” own pace, so you don’t want to be behind Skudrzyk says. “And find a mentor. Some- the eight ball on what’s going on,” he one who is wise, honest and has an open says. “If you can’t follow the thread of an heart, preferably through group work argument, you can’t offer much in the mentoring, too, so that we can keep learn- way of a resolution.” ing about how we need to keep on chang- Although many counselors might have ing without ever giving up who we are.” learned from counseling models not to
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 33 provide too much structure for clients, As they receive input from their fellow legs,” Kahn says. “Rather than them all DeLucia-Waack believes it’s important to group members, they go out and try leaving the group and getting in their cars have adequate structure in group work. those new ways of thinking or acting in and going off to their separate worlds, the This allows clients to feel safe and see the world. Then they often come back fact that they’re continuing to connect how groups work while still giving them and talk about that experience within the outside the group [is evidence of] the room to progress, she says. group. “That, to me, is growth, and as a strengthening of the community.” All of DeLucia-Waack’s groups have therapist, that’s huge,” Tyson says. “That’s Just because a community is being an opening segment, a working session what I wish I had learned earlier on — formed doesn’t mean that all the clients’ and a closing. Groups start at the same the power that groups can give people problems are being resolved, Kahn says. time each session so clients will learn and the impact a group can have.” But simply feeling less isolated can be quickly that if they’re late, they’ll miss Kahn says he loves to see the a big win for many clients, he says. “To something, she says. Having the closing community created among group know that they’re starting to reach out to is helpful because group members learn members as they learn from one another, folks who were strangers just a few weeks not to introduce new issues shortly before reach out to one another and lean on one ago is really powerful and rewarding as a a group meeting is set to end. That’s another. For counselors wondering what therapist.” part of providing a sense of safety for kind of impact their group is having on As Kahn and his colleague say to each clients, DeLucia-Waack explains, because members, Kahn recommends scanning other, when it comes to group therapy, they know no one will say something the parking lot after a meeting. It’s a great “The more parking lot moments, the provocative at the very end of the group sign, he says, to look out his window after better.” u and get out the door before it can be a session and to see clients chatting with addressed. one another in the parking lot instead Having an impact of hopping in their cars immediately and speeding away. Kahn and one of Looking back, Tyson says, “I wish I had Lynne Shallcross is a senior writer realized earlier in my career the power his colleagues have coined the phrase for Counseling Today. Contact her that comes from people being in groups “parking lot moments” to describe what at [email protected]. — the power in terms of what they happens if a group is really clicking. can learn.” After the initial nervousness “To me, it means that the support, the Letters to the editor: wears off for clients in a group setting, bonding and the community that you’re [email protected] they share more and risk more, he says. hoping is being created as a therapist has Stress Management:
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B:$/'B3VVQB&QFOJ7G\B$&$BBLQGG $0 September 2010 | Counseling Today | 35 Livelihoods and cultures in cri- sis Counselors discuss the deep psychological effects of the oil spill on Gulf communities
By Lynne Shallcross
he tragedy began April 20 individuals and are reporting increases in when the Deepwater Horizon anxiety, depression, stress, grief, excessive Toil rig exploded about 40 miles and earlier drinking and suicide ideation,” southeast of the Louisiana coast, killing 11 he wrote. “Community-based organiza- crewmembers. Crude oil began flowing tions report similar findings. We know freely out of the deep-sea well, and BP, that, left untreated, these symptoms can the oil company giant that leased the rig, quickly develop into behavioral health was unsuccessful in its attempts to cap the problems that lead to the breakdown of well until mid-July. At press time, work the familial structures, domestic violence, continued on a relief well, which officials abuse and neglect.” say is the only way to permanently stop The residents of Houma, La., which the flow of oil from the ruptured well. bills itself as “The Heart of America’s Wet- According to government estimates, land” in its tourism materials, have been this is now the largest accidental release hit particularly hard by the disaster. Carol of oil into water in history. The final toll Benoit, a counselor in private practice in the millions of barrels of leaked oil will Houma, is already seeing the oil spill’s have on the surrounding ecosystem is effects on her clients. Since May, Benoit, still unknown. Also unknown, counselors who works with children, families, cou- say, is the exact toll this crisis is taking on ples and adults, has witnessed an increase those who live in the region and rely on in behavior problems in several children, the Gulf Coast for their livelihood. including more frequent tantrums and In July, Louisiana Department of more severe outbursts. “The anxiety level Health and Hospitals Secretary Alan of some of the adults I see is markedly Levine wrote a letter asking BP America increased,” adds Benoit, a member of the to provide $28.9 million to support American Counseling Association. She has mental health outreach activities through also noticed an increase in depression and the Louisiana Spirit program, as well suicidal ideations among clients, as well as services through local districts and as an increase in drug use and domestic nonprofit partners through October 2011. violence among clients with prior histories “Counselors on the ground have been of those behaviors. reporting increased signs and symptoms “For the adults, the oil spill represents of behavioral health instability that another crisis in a string of crises including experience demonstrates will manifest into [Hurricanes] Katrina, Rita and Gustav, more clinically significant behaviors if left all of which had significant impacts here untreated,” Levine wrote. “The net result — flooding, threat to basic safety, etc.,” could be a preventable tragedy if we do Benoit says. “All of these crises occurred not work together to ensure we address it at the same time of year — summer.” head-on.” Summer is extremely hot, and residents In a prior letter to U.S. Health and Hu- constantly worry about the “next big man Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, storm,” she says. Many people live under Levine also pointed out the urgent need constant pressure, feeling an ever-present for mental health services. “Our Louisiana need to save money, have a backup plan Spirit crisis counseling teams have already ready and remain prepared to evacuate engaged and counseled more than 2,000 on short notice. “Many of the children I
36 | Counseling Today | September 2010 see are afraid of bad weather because of especially because they often meet with the cultural identity of the people of the the destruction they have seen,” Benoit resistance and/or red tape from either region. We have watched the wetlands says. “Also, they sense the anxiety of their or both. Not ‘being heard,’ especially wash away despite years of efforts by parents and other adults. That is how it is when in a desperate situation, creates people here to save the wetlands, and in the ‘best of times.’ Now imagine all of depressive symptoms, as well as anger now this. It is as if we are watching the that with [the oil spill] crisis on top.” and resentment and, at its worst, ‘learned disappearance of our culture.” The oil spill represents a severe financial helplessness,’ when the person or group Another impact less often discussed threat to residents, Benoit says, because just gives up [and] stops believing that in the media, Benoit says, is the stress the community is losing two industries they can affect their situation at all.” caused in the community by political that serve as main sources of employment: The spill is also a threat to basic safety, and social division related to the crisis. seafood and oil production. Benoit notes Benoit says, because people are afraid “There are various opinions about who is that the flag of Terrebonne Parish, where of eating seafood due to the possibility at fault, what needs to be done, what can Houma is located, features an image of a of toxicity from the dispersants and oil. be done,” she says. “So, when people seek shrimp boat and an oil well. “How bad “How long will it take to clean up? No support from each other, they often do it will get as far as the economy is an one knows. Can it be cleaned up? No one not find it.” unknown factor,” she says. “Unknowns knows. What would happen if or when In the aftermath of events such as are very anxiety-producing because people a hurricane hits now? How much worse 9/11, Benoit points out, there was a cannot prepare for what they do not would it get? How long will our food common enemy. Therefore, most people know. What they do know is that people supply be contaminated? What kinds of agreed about who did what and how to are losing their jobs.” cancers do the toxins cause? Will fertility respond. “But in cases such as this, it is Margaret Songe, an ACA member be affected? These are the questions all very debatable,” she says. “This causes who worked as a counselor intern for people are asking,” she says. conflicts in families and support systems. Terrebonne Mental Health Center in Much at risk It is difficult for people to find the kind Houma until this past spring, says when The oil spill has put the area’s entire way of emotional support they need while livelihoods are affected, it sets off a chain of life at risk, Songe says. “Grand Isle, our tiptoeing around political hot spots.” reaction. “Maslow’s hierarchy of needs beach in the Gulf, has been closed. Sea- Tammy Cheramie, who worked as a starts with survival, and if those needs food is a staple of our diet. Plus, the sports school counselor for Vandebilt Catholic aren’t met, the other higher needs are and recreation — swimming, [water-] High School in Houma this past year, not likely to be met either, making for skiing, fishing — opportunities have been says the trauma doesn’t end with the oil diminished lives in several ways,” she curtailed. This is how we live. Our region’s spill and cleanup. The possibility of a says. “Without adequate support from way of life, including our recreation, cul- moratorium on oil drilling is yet another professional counselors, affected people ture, diet, entertainment, livelihood and effect confronting local residents. “The — those seeking/wanting/choosing to tourism, is threatened, and it has a trau- moratorium threat is causing businesses get help, of course — may have difficulty matic affect. We are all directly affected.” in the oil industry to rethink hiring, responding well to the environment, Benoit notes that in the Gulf region, drilling and services,” says Cheramie, a meaning others around them and eating and catching seafood is an integral member of ACA who admits she’s slightly themselves.” part of the distinct Cajun culture. Because biased because her parents worked in Asking for help, Songe continues, isn’t part of the cultural heritage involves oil-related industries and “big oil” has an easy task. “Our people are self-reliant harvesting seafood and wild game from been good to her family. “It is a trickle- to a fault, in a way. Pride and shame the surrounding area, there is a deep down effect the Obama administration issues arise when they must get financial psychological connection to the wetlands, apparently is oblivious to right now. It is assistance or have to fight to get BP which are now polluted, she says. “On affecting an industry already impacted by and/or the government to pay claims, that level, it is a psychological blow to a bad economy.”
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September 2010 | Counseling Today | 37 Valerie Cooper, a part-time counselor spill continued as long as it did [to] the in the Department of Rehabilitation for the Terrebonne Parish Drug Court loss of their livelihood and concern over Counseling at Louisiana State University who also works in private practice, has how our environment will be affected in Health Sciences Center-New Orleans heard similar worries from her clients. the long term.” and clinical director at the center’s “The clients I see now are anxious due Children aren’t spared from the stress Play Therapy Clinic, is anticipating an to the uncertainty of job situations,” surrounding the situation, Fournier says. uptick in referrals after schools are back says Cooper, an ACA member who also “I would suspect that our children will in session. “Due to past history, we saw teaches at-risk high school students who be more affected as they are forced to children emotionally, behaviorally and are earning their GEDs. “The oil spill has relocate to different schools in order that cognitively process the effects of such an made a dramatic impact on the fishing/ their parents may earn a living,” she says. environmental disaster some time after tourist/restaurant business, but the bigger “Parents may also be more argumentative the initial onset,” says Dugan, a member concern now is the moratorium imposed over the stress this incident has placed on of ACA. “After 9/11 and Hurricane and oil companies looking elsewhere to our community.” Katrina, we saw much emotional, drill. Clients understand not to expect Fournier predicts the effects on her behavioral and cognitive turmoil — things from government but are now students will be similar to the post- depression, anxiety, fear, aggression, becoming angry and discouraged and traumatic stress they experience after anger, frustration, etc. — in the months don’t see a future.” Cooper says she is the threat or impact of a hurricane. [following those events]. Schools are expecting to see an increase in drug “It is equivalent to an environmental currently out and … unfortunately, more and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, incident beyond our control,” she children are referred while they are in anxiety, depression and even suicide in says. “It increases individuals’ feelings session due to the emotions, behaviors the near future. of helplessness and hopelessness at and cognitions that cannot be allowed to Jessica Fournier, a school counselor at the lack of control [we] have on the continue in the school setting.” Houma Junior High School who also environment.” Dugan reports having seen an overall runs a private practice in Houma, says Benoit agrees that children are sadness and depression in both parents the spill has sent shock waves through the absorbing a lot of the impact from the and children since the spill happened. community because of the uncertainty spill. “They feel, see and hear everything “However,” she says, “it is uncertain surrounding the long-term effects. “The that is going on,” she says. “They try to whether this environmental disaster has clients in my private practice whom I make sense of it. They know something brought about the sadness, depression treated throughout this disaster were tragic has happened. They know that the and anxiety or whether it’s a double- not directly affected by the spill but did adults are worried. They see the adults impact/resurfaced trauma from the past express concerns about the effects,” says cry, express anger and have symptoms. natural disaster, Hurricane Katrina or Fournier, a member of ACA. “It was And they [the children] worry, they act even the economic decline that this and is a topic that everyone discusses. out, they have trouble sleeping, etc.” country has been affected by over the past Concerns range from frustration that the Erin Dugan, an assistant professor several years.”
38 | Counseling Today | September 2010 The road ahead Recent cutbacks in social services further complicate an already tragic DON’T FORGET situation, Songe says. “There have been articles in The (Houma) Courier, our TO SEND YOUR FALL SYLLABI daily newspaper, asking nonprofessional people to volunteer to counsel and receive TO THE CLEARINGHOUSE an afternoon’s worth of training to assist with the mental health crises caused to our residents by the oil spill. These kinds The statistics are in! They show that the Syllabus Clearinghouse is a success with of actions tend to devalue counseling both the contributors and their colleagues who have researched and benefited because they give the impression from the clearinghouse: that anyone can do it — no training ß The clearinghouse has received more than 16,500 hits since Jan 2009 necessary.” The short-term solution, Songe says, is to help those affected ß Over 350 syllabi are available get services from qualified, trained ß 152 counselor educators have contributed their syllabi professionals. Cheramie agrees, adding that the expense of private counselors in a time Here is a sampling of recently received syllabi. (Syllabi are posted in the when families might be slashing their order in which they are received. More than one syllabus by an author budgets, combined with cutbacks in may be featured.): funding for public mental health services, create a double-whammy for those going through this crisis. “I think counselors H. Dan Smith, California State University, Fresno and social workers need to go to these UÊ -i>ÀÊÊ ÕÃi}Ê/iV µÕià people most affected and reach out to UÊ -i>ÀÊÊ Ì VÃÊ>`Ê*ÀviÃÃ>Ê*À>VÌViÃÊvÊ >ÀÀ>}iÊ>`Ê>ÞÊ them in their communities,” she says. / iÀ>«Þ “They are going to be too prideful to seek it out. We will have to reach out in Richard Sharf, University of Delaware churches, schools and community events. UÊ >ÀiiÀÊ iÛi«iÌÊ/ iÀÞÊ>`Ê*À>VÌVi Even if we’re doing it pro bono, we are going to have to do what we have to do UÊ / iÀiÃÊÊ ÕÃi} to get our state through this time and place.” Judith Durham, Saint Joseph College As a result of this disaster, Benoit finds UÊ >}ÃÃÊ>`Ê/Ài>ÌiÌÊ*>} she’s putting in longer hours, fielding UÊ *ÃÞV « >À>V}ÞÊvÀÊÌ iÊ i`V>Ê iÌ>Êi>Ì Ê V> more calls and seeing more crisis cases. In an effort to help her clients cope, she tells Michael Altekruse, Northern Kentucky University them to get involved. “There are events UÊ iiÌ>ÀÞÊ-V Ê ÕÃi} at various churches that specifically avoid divisive, political bias and focus on UÊ ÌiÀà «Ê bringing people together to pray for all Ed Jacobs, West Virginia University of the people, animals, wildlife, etc.,” she says. She also discourages clients from UÊ ``VÌÃÊ ÕÃi} watching too much media coverage of UÊ ÕÃi}Ê/iV µÕià the spill. UÊ ÕÃi}Ê/ iÀià As it concerns children, Dugan UÊ ÀÕ«Ê ÕÃi} recommends that caregivers and schools respect the feelings of their students and / >ÊÞÕÊ>ÊvÀÊÞÕÀÊ`i`V>ÌÊÌÊÞÕÀÊ«ÀviÃÃÊ>`ÊÌÊÞÕÀÊÊ are prepared to look at their own mental viÜÊVÕÃiÀÃ°Ê state before providing support. “Adults should care for themselves in order for the role of the caregiver to be accurately Please direct any syllabus questions or feedback to perceived by the child,” she says. “The Vikki Cooper, ACA Librarian, at [email protected] caregiver who appears out of control to the child may allow the child to take on or 800-347-6647, x281. roles, duties and responsibilities that are not appropriate, ultimately causing undue
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 39 stress, pressure, anxiety, frustration, anger Over the long term, Songe would like Lending a helping hand and resentment.” to see counselors performing outreach Cooper has attended local, state and in affected communities, researching Erin Martz, ACA manager of parish planning meetings with the mental health needs and fostering ethics and professional standards, Department of Health and Hospitals cohesiveness among citizens. “But this is researched the question of licensed to create strategies for getting mental a key point,” Songe says. “Whatever is professional counselors relocating health information to the affected areas. done should be done by a professional temporarily to the Gulf region to “People from these areas are self-reliant, in the field who knows what to ask and work with individuals affected by humble and proud and find asking how to help intervene on these folks’ the BP oil spill. She shared the behalf — individually and for families. or seeking help of any kind difficult,” following information: Cooper says. “Counselors and mental Especially since this may be a population n Alabama, Louisiana and health professionals are being proactive, not accustomed to asking for mental Mississippi all have clauses in going into the communities hardest health assistance, it is essential that trained counselors be used — people who their rules and regulations that hit [and] bringing information and know not just how to do interventions, allow counselors licensed in other services to community fairs, concerts and but how to elicit responses from and give states to provide services for 30 organized events to encourage continued support to someone at the same time. days without having to notify the participation in the communities.” Not just someone who pats their hand state board. In the near term, Benoit believes and says, ‘Everything’s gonna be OK.’ there is a need for outside help. “I think n Florida has an exemption that They will certainly see through that and there needs to be a program such as the allows counselors licensed in feel dismissed once again.” u [American] Red Cross program that other states to practice for 15 was in place after Katrina. This allowed days without having to notify the people to receive counseling services Lynne Shallcross is a senior writer state board. for Counseling Today. Contact her funded by money donated to the Red n Texas has no such exemption, at [email protected]. Cross. Mental health workers here are and counselors cannot provide psychologically tired and need support Letters to the editor: services unless they are licensed from counselors who are not living in a [email protected] in the state of Texas. crisis zone.”
40 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Breaking the cycle of addiction and crime
Drug courts offer nonviolent offenders an opportunity to partake in substance abuse treatment and other counseling services instead of automatic incarceration By Chris Morkides
ob Houston, 52, has a job in the Dade County, Fla., started this country’s mental health field. first drug court to deal with the drugs, B He has four children, a the offenders, the social costs and the marriage of five years, an active role in his very, very heavy monetary weight of church, a GED — obtained more than simply prosecuting drug offenders and 30 years after dropping out of high school throwing them in jail. — and plans to become a minister. Now, some two decades later, more Houston had something completely than 2,000 drug courts are in operation different a decade ago: a drug addiction nationwide. Measured by reduced rates that caused him to spend most of of recidivism, monetary savings and his adult life in jail, stopped him effective recovery from substance abuse, from getting an education and led to proponents proclaim drug courts a success prostitution. Learning more story. President Barack Obama’s drug czar, “Heroine, PCP, cocaine, pills. Every How can counselors get Gil Kerlikowske, views drug courts as a drug they made, I think I did,” Houston involved in drug courts? way to “break the cycle of addiction and says. “The longest clean time I had was a Locate drug courts and crime.” The president’s proposed 2010 month or two. I just couldn’t stay clean. I contacts by accessing nadcp. budget reflects this thinking, earmarking tried though.” org/learn/find-drug-court $50 million more for drug courts than After an arrest in 2002, Houston was or nadcp.org/learn/state- was allocated in 2009. admitted to the drug court program in leaders/state-drug-court- Drug courts essentially meld two Prince George County, Va. The program, coordinators/current-state- different approaches for dealing with like many other drug court programs drug-court-coordinators. substance abuse: the traditional criminal throughout the country, utilizes a special The National Drug Court justice model, in which drug addiction court docket to deal with nonviolent Institute offers training to is an antisocial behavior best handled by criminal offenses committed by drug- drug court teams, including the legal system, and the medical model, addicted offenders. training for the roles played in which substance abuse is viewed as a A year after entering a program that by treatment providers disease to be treated therapeutically so and counselors. Training combines substance abuse treatment, job that those afflicted can eliminate drug use offered specifically to counseling, the development of social and change their lives for the better. treatment providers can be skills and the possibility of jail if the Melding the two models has worked. found at nadcp.camp8.org/ offender relapses, Houston graduated. He A National Drug Court Institute study has been clean ever since. TreatmentProviders. has shown that judge-supervised drug “Before, when things came up that I programs lower prison costs and prison couldn’t handle, I’d pick up a drug or a overcrowding. A study conducted by drink,” Houston says. “Drug court gave the Urban Institute estimated that an me a chance to take a hard look at myself. expenditure of nearly a half-billion I got spiritual help. I got professional dollars by the United States on more help. I got a different mind-set.” than 50,000 nonviolent drug offenders Melding of two models who went to drug court in 2005 resulted Drug courts have been functioning in more than $1 billion in reduced law- since 1989 when, in response to a enforcement and prison costs. rampant crack-cocaine problem, Miami- From a therapeutic standpoint, drug
September 2010 | Counseling Today | 41 courts help recovering addicts stay clean. components in the success of drug courts: harder and use more confrontation if “It’s hard as a counselor to get a coordinated strategy between legal and needed. They can’t get away from me.” alcoholics and addicts to stay in treatment mental health workers, the integration The bigger picture long enough to effect change,” says of substance abuse treatment with justice Malinda Lamb, the clinical services Ellyn Joan Essic, past president of the system processing, use of a nonadversarial International Association of Addictions approach, early identification and director for the 6th Judicial District of and Offender Counselors, a division of placement of eligible participants, access Correctional Services in Iowa, and ACA the American Counseling Association. to continued treatment and rehabilitative member Nicole Pizzini presented on “People might not want to be in drug services, frequent testing for alcohol and drug courts at the 2008 ACA Annual court, but they’d rather be there than drugs, a coordinated strategy between Conference in Honolulu. Lamb figures in jail. It gives you time. And once you legal and mental health workers, ongoing that the average client in her district’s break that barrier, you see change.” judicial action with participants, drug court program stays 12 to 18 Change is effected by bringing monitoring of program goals, continued months. She emphasizes rewards, such as members of the legal and mental health education and partnerships with public birthday cards, 30-day cards for staying communities — judges, attorneys, and community-based organizations. clean and certificates for completing probation officers, case managers and “Folks in drug court get a lot of various phases of the program, as mental health counselors — together. assistance nobody else gets,” Essic says. incentives in her program. Judges preside, and the efficacy of the “You get a full court assessment. You get Of course, there is also another major process, according to a Department of treatment. You can get housing if you source of motivation. “All of our clients Justice report published in 2006, depends need it and assistance with employment.” either face prison or do drug court,” greatly on the judge’s informal, flexible What mental health therapists get is Lamb says. “This is the last resort for and hands-on style, the “nonadversarial additional time to work with recovering some people who are longtime users. nature of the proceedings, the frequency addicts, a luxury not often enjoyed when Under supervision, they get clean time, of required hearings and the opportunity the incentive to stay out of jail does not they do well, they transition. Then we for direct communication between exist. make sure their recovery continues.” defendants and the bench.” “I know I have longer to work with this Lamb’s program includes six months A model outlined by the National person,” says Essic, who advocates the use of supervised aftercare. “We look at the Association of Drug Court Professionals of cognitive behavioral and reality-based bigger picture,” she says. “We look at and the Justice Department in a therapy in substance abuse treatment. “I mental health, housing, giving back to 1997 report lists the following as key know I can go deeper. I know I can push the community.”
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42 | Counseling Today | September 2010 “It certainly beats the alternative, which first drug courts in the state of New York. reaches for his Bible. He reaches out to is jail,” says Carolyn Hardin, director of Madonia’s style? Accentuate the positive. others who are battling addiction the way the National Drug Court Institute. “You “Counselors need to focus on a client’s he once battled addiction. can do jail sitting on your hands. But strengths,” says Madonia, a licensed “I’m accountable today,” Houston it’s different going into treatment and clinical social worker and teacher at New says. “I take responsibility as a husband addressing issues that led to drug and York University who maintains a private and a father. I have steady work. I’m alcohol abuse. I don’t believe kids, when practice in Manhattan. “They need to active in the church and in a lot of they grow up, want to be on crack. But look at the positive aspects of their lives.” community projects. My life has changed something happened along the way. This Brooklyn’s drug court emphasizes dramatically. People trust me now.” is something that drug court addresses: education, skill building and vocational Houston gives much of the credit for services. “Some of our graduates have what happened along the way.” his solid footing to his experience in drug become counselors,” Madonia says. Mental health professionals play a court. “I wouldn’t be like this [without Madonia says his court follows a vital role in drug court programs, often it],” he says. “I’d probably have the same “carefully designed list of sanctions and stepping into settings that address co- mind-set that I had then: that I could use occurring mental health and substance incentives, the last sanction being jail.” He prefers to de-emphasize the possibility drugs and live. But I can’t get high and abuse disorders. The treatment, a part of live. It’s impossible.” u clients’ probation, focuses on substance of jail with clients, but he is fully aware abuse, recovery from substance abuse, that it provides a hammer that helps issues underlying substance abuse and him pound home other aspects of his the intertwined relationship between program. Drug court professionals take incentive Chris Morkides is a mental substance abuse and mental health issues. where they can find it. “The old saying health therapist in Wilmington, Drug court gives substance abusers the is, ‘You can lead a horse to water, but Del., specializing in co-occurring incentive or, depending on the speaker’s you can’t make him drink.’ We try to get disorders and anger management. semantic preference, the disincentive them thirsty,” Madonia says. Contact him at [email protected]. of jail. It gives the therapist additional support. “The therapist knows he has a w Letters to the editor: team,” Hardin emphasizes. Bob Houston doesn’t reach for alcohol [email protected] Joe Madonia is the director of the when he is thirsty these days. Instead, he Brooklyn Treatment Court, one of the reaches for his 3-year-old son, Joshua. He
Regent is Helping This Counselor Change Lives ... Without Changing His Address 8Vaa-%%#+-&#*.%+ lll#gZ\Zci#ZYj$ehnX]dad\n EgZk^ZlLZZ`ZcY CdkZbWZg&-"'%!'%&% 6j\jhi^cZÆ CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP TO CHANGE THE WORL D GZ\ZciJc^kZgh^in^hVXXgZY^iZYWni]Z8dbb^hh^dcdc8daaZ\Zhd[i]ZHdji]Zgc6hhdX^Vi^dcd[8daaZ\ZhVcYHX]ddahidVlVgYVhhdX^ViZh!WVXXVaVjgZViZ!bVhiZgh!VcYYdXidgViZYZ\gZZh#8dciVXii]Z8dbb^hh^dcdc8daaZ\ZhVi&-++Hdji]ZgcAVcZ!9ZXVijg! September 2010 | Counseling Today | 43 Reader Viewpoint - By Thomas J. Pallardy One school’s response to external traumatic events nfortunately, at some point students and/or employees in a negative aware of the benefits of processing trau- during this new school year, a way. Communities can feel more secure matic events after media exposure to Utraumatic event is likely to take in their reactions if plans are in place be- the shootings at Virginia Tech on April place somewhere in our nation, bringing fore traumatic events occur. 16, 2007. The faculty and staff were back memories of prior traumatic events Having an emergency response plan in very concerned about how St. Laurence that have happened at various schools place to address the needs of individuals students and employees might be af- throughout the United States. Because and groups within an organization is evi- fected by this tragedy, so the school’s these events seem more commonplace in dence of caring about them. Ultimately, administration and guidance department the world today, it would be wise for ad- this creates a better learning and working put together an intervention to process ministrators of various institutions to put atmosphere. When individuals have an post-traumatic concerns. Following is a a response plan in place to assist members option to process traumatic events, they synopsis of our response. of their communities as they attempt to feel more appreciated and can get back The administration and guidance de- make sense of what does not — the in- to normal (so to speak). School counsel- partment met several times during the jury and death of innocent people. ors are usually very involved with crisis week of April 16 to develop a plan, which Although most schools and institu- prevention and intervention, so it makes was completed Monday, April 23. Several tions have crisis response plans in place sense that they should also be part of the steps are necessary to formulate a plan team that develops the plan to respond to that address incidents within their own to respond effectively to crises that occur external traumatic events. organizations, they are less likely to have outside an institution. Among the steps plans that address reactions to traumas The catalyst we implemented in creating our External that occur outside the school or institu- The community of St. Laurence High Crisis Response Plan are the following: tion. This can affect the productivity of School, located in Burbank, Ill., became 1) Establish a team to facilitate the plan. EXAM PREP STUDY GUIDE Andrew Helwig, Ph.D. EXAM PREP & WORKSHOP DVDs RESOURCES The very popular fifth edition of the Study Guide for the National Counselor Exam (2006) has 350 pages and covers the eight content areas of the National Counselor Exam, national comp exams (CPCE) and many similar exams. The Workshop DVDs contain over 6 hours of an actual workshop focusing on: Appraisal, Research, Professional Orientation, and Career. The other four areas are covered lightly as well as test-taking strategies and study tips. The Study Guide costs $79.95 and the Workshop DVDs are $69.95. Save $20 by purchasing them at the same time for $129.95. Prices include all mailing and handling costs. Order at website: www.counselor-exam-prep.com. Email: [email protected] for more information. Show your pride in the profession. ACA – Counselor Proud! Your pin is available for order online in the bookstore section of ACA’s website (counseling.org) or call 800-422-2648 x222. #80043 | $5.00 | Shipping included 44 | Counseling Today | September 2010 2) Brainstorm the types of incidents that whether our teachers would be willing to an adverse reaction on the basis of past may occur within your institution. participate in the new plan and with how behaviors and/or their family and school 3) Have a method in place to determine parents might respond to the plan. (It histories. the level of threat (if any) to individu- turned out that nearly all of the feedback Our next concern was determining als and the institution itself. we received from students, teachers and where to hold presentations and discus- parents was positive.) sions with the students. A strategy was 4) Develop procedures to identify persons Next, we considered the level of threat developed to use the entire building at at risk. to individuals in the institution. Our different parts of the day because we 5) Create a logical demographic plan. concerns were to avoid creating fear wanted to demonstrate that the entire 6) Make a list of trained personnel to within the institution, eliminate the pos- school was involved in this process. We implement the plan. sibility of creating a copycat event and used the gymnasium, the cafeteria, the raise our awareness of individuals at St. chapel, the library and classrooms to ac- 7) Develop a method of evaluating the Laurence who might have an adverse re- commodate various size groups. There response. sponse to an intervention. were opportunities for individuals to be 8) Make adjustments to the plan in place. We addressed the first concern by with someone one-on-one or to remain The team we created at St. Laurence making participation in the public dis- in their groups for the entire day. (step one) consisted of the school presi- cussions of the Virginia Tech shootings After our plan was in place, we devel- dent, the principal, the assistant princi- voluntary. Given the amount of media oped a list of individuals who would be pal, three counselors and some teachers. coverage the shootings received, our goal responsible for various parts of the inter- We also consulted with professionals was to make students, teachers and staff vention. We used counselors, administra- outside our organization. The teams de- feel safe by raising the threshold for stress tors and teachers who were willing to veloping these plans should be as diverse tolerance. Our hope was that showing participate in the process. Outside refer- as the communities these teams are rep- respect for one another’s responses to the ral resources (counselors, grief counselors resenting. incident would also deter any copycat and psychologists) were also available if Our team met to discuss our goals reactions. We also asked all members of needed. The leaders of our group discus- after realizing the objective of provid- the school whether they knew anyone sions were persons who had training in ing our students with a way to process directly or indirectly affected by the this area or who had experience with the their thoughts and feelings pertaining shootings. This gave us an opportunity aftermath of a traumatic event. to the incident at Virginia Tech. These to provide individual intervention. The day after our intervention, we goals included creating a safe, effective Determining a level of threat for in- collected evaluations from our students, environment to express various emotions dividuals as well as the institution was faculty and staff, each of whom was and thoughts, accepting the opinions certainly a concern. According to Ron requested to write down individual expressed by all students and staff as Teffaine, a school psychologist in Mani- thoughts and/or concerns pertaining valid and discussing safety issues at St. toba, Canada, who developed a threat to the intervention. The feedback was Laurence. assessment protocol, “the purpose of very positive, and we learned that the The team next discussed the possible having a threat assessment protocol is to intervention was appreciated. But more reactions that might take place as a result make sure students, teachers and staff important, we learned of specific safety of publicly discussing the shootings at are safe through prevention efforts and concerns at St. Laurence. This enabled us Virginia Tech. Our concern revolved to assure that everyone in the school is to make adjustments within our school around how students might react to safe.” Guidance department and disci- and to open the doors to the community open discussion of a tragic current event pline office members at St. Laurence dis- for valuable input from trained personnel in society. We were also concerned with cussed students who might be at risk for within the police and fire departments. September 2010 | Counseling Today | 45 The details additional questions. Several questions Following are some details experienced and concerns were discussed in each Executive Director during our response to the tragic events grade-level presentation. As evidenced by at Virginia Tech. the questions submitted, students wanted Continued from page 7 At 8:15 Tuesday morning, our team assurance that the school had a plan and met with the faculty to inform them of that they were safe. the response plan. Our goals were to ac- A prayer service was considered as a improved ACA Publications Catalog was knowledge the incident at Virginia Tech possible follow-up to these gatherings. packaged with the issue of Counseling as a community, provide an opportunity However, given that the crisis did not di- Today you are now reading. to process the event, assess the needs rectly affect school personnel, the school We are also very excited to return of students and faculty, and provide re- administration and guidance depart- to New Orleans for the ACA Annual sources as needed. ment members decided it would be more Conference & Exposition (March 23-27, The faculty was very cooperative. Each appropriate to provide a place where of the religion teachers (all students have students could go individually if they 2011). Recently, we were able to confirm a religion class at St. Laurence) was re- desired. The chapel was made available that our opening keynote speaker will quested to announce that students would to individual students, and counselors be CNN reporter Soledad O’Brien, and attend a gathering on Wednesday related were available for any individual, follow- our second keynote presenter will be to what had happened at Virginia Tech. up intervention. Dr. Judith Beck of the Beck Institute The teachers also read a prepared state- For purposes of closure, a feedback for Cognitive Therapy and Research ment from the counselors. The teachers session was conducted at a general fac- (for more on these speakers, turn to then requested that each student turn ulty meeting on Thursday. The guidance page 50). Add to that more than 400 in one sheet of paper containing anony- department processed feedback/concerns education sessions, along with a very mous “concerns”; students who did not from faculty and staff the following week special community project that you have any concerns were asked to write to determine any further needs to be ad- will be hearing more about, and I think down “no questions/concerns” and turn dressed. we can all agree this will be one ACA As a result of the feedback, the guid- in their paper with the rest of their class- Annual Conference that should not be ance department recommended develop- mates. Written responses were collected missed. Next month, look for the ACA ment of long-term plans for handling and placed in one of four boxes depend- Annual Conference Advance Registration ing on whether the students were fresh- “loners/bullies” within the school setting. Brochure (packaged with Counseling men, sophomores, juniors or seniors. Fortunately, the school has promoted a Today) for more details! On Wednesday, gatherings were held policy for years that states, “We Come With all that we work on, I realize separately for each grade level, with Together, We Move Forward, And NO- freshmen going first, sophomores second BODY Gets Left Behind; Leave as a we don’t always take enough time to and so on. This process was put in place Leader.” This policy is shared with every celebrate the “good times.” So, if I may because it was determined that the reac- class that enters the building and appears brag on ACA a bit, our membership at tions of younger students might be more quite appropriate when considering our fiscal year end (June 30, 2010) was the intense if they had to go through the en- long-term plans. u highest it has been in five years, and your tire day anticipating their presentation. official ACA magazine,Counseling Today, In the gatherings, counselors read the recently won four awards for writing and Thomas J. Pallardy is a licensed questions collected from each group and design excellence! professional clinical counselor in responded to the concerns. Of the 673 So, for those of you beginning a new the guidance department and a students enrolled at St. Laurence at the psychology teacher at St. Laurence school year, the best of luck in your time of this intervention, 250 handed High School in Burbank, Ill. He is academic endeavors (whether you are in written questions. Among the more also a board-certified professional learning or whether you are teaching!). prevalent questions submitted: counselor in private practice I believe the information in this column n “Do we have a plan of action in our at the Center for Psychological provides just a few examples of what your school?” (55 students asked this ques- Services in Oak Lawn. For further staff and your leaders are doing on your tion) information and/or discussion behalf. pertaining to the response used at n “Are we secure?” (39 students) As always, I hope you will contact the school, he invites readers to n “What can we do to prevent this in contact him at 708.458.6900 ext. me with any comments, questions, or our school or others?” (22 students) 221 or [email protected]. suggestions that you might have. Please n “How can we change gun laws?” contact me via e-mail at ryep@counseling. (14 students) org or by phone at 800.347.6647 Letters to the editor: ext. 231. After the written questions were ad- [email protected] dressed, students were permitted to ask Thanks and be well. u 46 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Letters Continued from page 8 a child or teen is truly tragic, it is no less communication. The introduction of serious or substantial when in the context gatekeepers in various communities has of later life. been beneficial in preventing suicide Editorial policy Some of the sources cited in the article and in helping persons to find hope and seem to indicate the gravity of the solace in their communities. During my Counseling Today welcomes situation in older populations. Building internship, I worked closely with many letters to the editor from ACA off what Shallcross alludes to, the university gatekeepers and helped to members; submissions from National Institute for Mental Health has coordinate communication and dialogue. nonmembers will be published in some additional statistics: One comment in the article seemed rare circumstances. n Although they make up only 12 out of place, introducing a possible Only one letter per person per percent of the U.S. population, people stereotype. David Capuzzi identifies topic in each 365-day period 65 and older accounted for 16 percent “exposure to violent rock music” as a will be printed. Letters will be of suicide deaths in 2004. significant risk for adolescents. Listing published as space permits and are this but failing to include isolation subject to editing for both length n 14.3 of every 100,000 people age 65 (as a character typology and a recent and clarity. Submissions can be and older died by suicide in 2004. behavior) seems to be a disservice to sent via e-mail or regular mail and As a member of the millennial the therapists (and clients) who read must include the individual’s full this article. According to trainings and generation and a future counselor, I am name, mailing address or e-mail much of the research I have read on the well aware that the mental health needs address and telephone number. subject, isolation is identified as one of the baby boomers as they age will ACA has the sole right to of the most significant risk factors of have tremendous influence on how the determine if a letter will be suicidal thoughts and behavior for all age counseling profession views and seeks to accepted for publication. groups. This can be observed through treat suicide. It seems likely that future Counseling Today will not giving away treasured items or selling discussions will need to focus on the publish any letter that contains profession’s conceptions and assumptions a lot of possessions without cause or unprofessional, defamatory, around suicide and the aging. reason, sudden or rapid shifts in mood incendiary, libelous or illegal Some of the biases within the and behavior that negatively impact statements or content deemed profession have to do with the dominant relationships and removing oneself from as intended to offend a person culture’s conception of the aged not activities of involvement, among many or group of people based on as revered but as marginal. They are other observable behaviors. their race, gender, age, ethnicity, anything but marginal, however. Including rock music as a possible religion, sexual orientation, gender According to the National Institute on factor implies that it alone can cause identity, disability, language, Aging, the number of persons older suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Though ability, ideology, social class, than age 65 is set to double by 2030, it may exacerbate thoughts and feelings occupation, appearance, mental constituting about 20 percent of the that are already present, exposure to capacity or any other distinction entire U.S. population. They are entitled violent rock music is not a significant risk to the same level of attention being paid for suicide. that might be considered by some to other client populations. Suicide is not as a liability. ACA will not print Joshua Furtado, M.A. letters that include advertising just something that youth contemplate Boulder, Colo. and act on; their elders do, too. or represent a copy of a letter to a third party. The editor Brian C. Harvey Correction of Counseling Today will have Concord, N.H. The 2010-2011 Leadership Directory responsibility for determining [email protected] that appeared in the August 2010 issue of if any factors are present that Counseling Today incorrectly listed Alan warrant not publishing a letter. w Burkard as the incoming president for the E-mail letters to ct@counseling. American School Counselor Association. org or write to Counseling Today, I appreciated reading the cover article Instead, Brian Law ([email protected]) Letters to the Editor, 5999 on suicide prevention. It feels important will take office as ASCA’s president on Stevenson Ave., Alexandria, for various professionals to address Oct. 1, while Burkard will become the VA 22304. the myths and stereotypes revolving association’s president-elect on that date. around suicide and to encourage open Counseling Today regrets the error. u September 2010 | Counseling Today | 47 Reader Viewpoint - By Angela St. Hillaire Addressing spiritual diversity orty-three-year-old Alba had made encourages counselors to gain a greater un- think they had received sufficient training a decision. At the suggestion of derstanding and appreciation of the vari- to address their clients’ spiritual issues. Fa trusted friend, she drove to an ous cultural aspects that clients bring into Since that time, some changes have been agency to offer her services as a volunteer. counseling as a part of who they are. The made in an attempt to address this lack of She understood something needed to ACA Code of Ethics requires that counselors preparation. For example, with its 2001 change in her life and that if she continued “respect the diversity of clients” (Standard standards, CACREP listed competence on her current path, she would eventually A.4.b., Personal Values). The question in addressing spiritual values as one of the lose her will to live. is, how does that look in the counseling foundational skills required in counselor Four months had passed since Alba’s room? A therapist can begin by becoming training. 20-year-old son had committed suicide. educated regarding clients’ cultural back- Although there is growing acceptance of Wasn’t the pain supposed to decrease with grounds and working toward greater self- the rationale behind incorporating spiritual- time? Instead, Alba had been moving awareness in the area of culture. ity and religion into counseling as an aspect deeper and deeper into depression. She From a counseling perspective, spiritual- of diversity and in an attempt to treat the repeatedly recounted the anguish she felt ity is one of many dimensions of culture whole person, many counselors in the field to her friend. Alba talked about the signs and diversity. Relating to Alba’s religious may remain unprepared to address this she should have picked up, the words she experience with acceptance and under- aspect of diversity in a competent way. In could have spoken and the words she never standing (and without condescension) their 2006 overview titled “Multicultural should have said. could make all the difference in the coun- Training in Spirituality: An Interdisciplin- Alba’s pain was exacerbated by the seling process. Could there be a more spiri- ary Review,” researchers Sally Hage, Amy knowledge that her son had rejected her tually defining time in a person’s life than Hopson, Matthew Seigal, Gregory Payton religion. Her deepest fear now was that when he or she comes face to face with the and Elizabeth DeFanti found that spiritual her son was not in heaven and that she death of a loved one? How questions of diversity may be a neglected aspect in multi- was somehow to blame. This lack of as- spirituality are resolved may have a signifi- cultural training, noting that many graduate surance was the most painful aspect of cant impact on a person’s mental health. program instructors did not have the neces- her guilt. It left her feeling without hope. According to a literature review by Eliza- sary preparation to adequately teach about Making an effort to divert and occupy beth Oakes and Mary Raphel, in the early spirituality. Moreover, evidence suggested her mind, she got involved with volunteer days of psychology, spirituality was of inter- spiritual diversity was not given the same work. But this would prove challenging. est mainly as an intriguing phenomenon priority as other aspects of diversity in many Eventually, Alba decided not to continue. encountered in the clinical setting. The im- of the training programs. “If my son’s not in heaven, I’m to blame. portance of spirituality in psychology and Perhaps the relatively recent emphasis on How do I live with that?” she would ask. counseling has since grown, particularly as developing competence in an area that just If Alba decided to see a counselor, what the literature increasingly supports the as- 25 years ago was generally avoided — both are the chances she would find someone sertion that an individual’s spirituality may in therapy and in the classroom — has capable of addressing her spiritual needs have a significant impact on the person’s created a cohort of instructors who, having with understanding and competence? If emotional, psychological and even physical never been trained to address this topic, her beliefs regarding life and death affect well-being (see, for example, Loren Mark’s still feel inadequately prepared to do so. the way she processes her son’s suicide, 2006 article “Mental Health, Religious Whatever the reason, Hage and the other how important is it that she address these Belief and ‘The Terrifying Question’”). The researchers did observe that many instruc- beliefs in counseling? Because Alba’s reli- 2001 Handbook of Religion and Health ana- tors addressed spiritual and religious issues gious beliefs are inextricably linked to who lyzed more than 1,000 studies on various in supervision, if not didactically. she is and how she experiences life and aspects of health in relationship to religion. Do we have answers? death, they will inevitably have an impact Among a few of the findings that seemed on her psychological well-being. Would to support the correlation between spiri- What can be done to change the cur- it be possible to explore Alba’s world tuality and mental health: More than 80 rent situation and ensure that counselors without addressing the spiritual belief percent of the studies on optimism found a obtain the training they need to become system that influences her worldview? Is positive correlation between religious prac- competent in this area? Hage et al first rec- it possible to address her problem without tice and optimism; 86 percent of the stud- ommend that counselor trainees strongly addressing her spirituality? Even if it were ies on anxiety showed less anxiety among encourage educators to include spiritual possible, would it be ethical to exclude religious participants; studies on drug abuse diversity as an integral part of the multi- this aspect of the person from counseling? found lower usage among individuals who cultural perspective, both throughout the identified as being religious. curriculum and within classes dealing spe- Is it important to cifically with multiculturalism and diver- address spirituality? Is spirituality being addressed? sity. For practicing therapists, specifically A diversity perspective is the trend in In a 1995 study, E. W. Kelly indicated seeking out continuing education in this counselor education today. This approach that many counseling graduates didn’t area will help to further this goal. 48 | Counseling Today | September 2010 A second suggestion would be to ensure that trainees have adequate supervision from a competent individual who can pro- Two New ACA vide training on how to assess, integrate and understand clients’ worldviews and Podcasts Just Posted! spiritual perspectives. Ideally, this would include taking the time to learn about various religious interventions. Hage et al also propose that therapists share informa- tion with colleagues and students about Podcast HT019 the empirical support for the connection Microcounseling, Multiculturalism, Social Justice, between spirituality and mental health, and the Brain: A Conversation with Dr. Allen Ivey thereby promoting the need to address the and Dr. Mary Bradford Ivey whole person. In their article “Incorporating Spiritual- ity Into Core Counseling Courses: Ideas Learn more about: for Classroom Application,” Michele u Microcounseling—what is it? Briggs and Andrea Rayle provide ap- proaches educators can use to help train- u Rogerian vs microcounseling ees become more comfortable with the frameworks issue of addressing spirituality in counsel- u Social justice and its role in ing. Among their suggestions are to en- counseling today courage open discussion, model empathic understanding of client spiritual beliefs u Neuroscience and current research and engage in self-exploration regarding on the brain one’s own beliefs and biases on spiritual Running time: 59:50 issues. The Association for Spiritual, Ethi- cal and Religious Values in Counseling’s Competencies for Addressing Spiritual and Religious Issues in Counseling, re- vised in 2009, can also provide guidance Podcast HT020 to counselor educators. Tough Kids, Cool Counseling In conclusion With Dr. John Sommers-Flanagan The understanding that human beings have a spiritual component cannot be Learn more about: overlooked. Spirituality can influence who people are and how they respond to their u How counseling children and adolescents is environment, giving rise to the movement like multicultural counseling to integrate spirituality into the counsel- u Empirically supported treatments and why ing process. the presenter does not support them Though change has been slow in com- ing, the acknowledgment that it is needed u Rapid emotional change techniques and how they work has been confirmed. As members of the u Traditional suicide assessment and the presenter’s counseling profession, it is up to us to constructive critique of it ensure that this change continues to gain momentum so clients may be better u Medication vs counseling and effectiveness for adolescents served in the very near future. u Running time: 61:04 All podcasts are free to ACA Members. Add to your Angela St. Hillaire is a community iPod or download to your counseling student at Andrews computer. Visit counseling. University. Contact her at org and click on ACA [email protected]. Podcast Series. Letters to the editor: [email protected] September 2010 | Counseling Today | 49 Soledad O’Brien, Judith Beck to keynote 2011 ACA Conference Award-winning news anchor and expert in cognitive therapy set to address counselors in New Orleans ounselors gathered in New O’Brien joined CNN in July 2003 as Orleans next March for the coanchor of the network’s flagship morn- C2011 American Counseling ing program, American Morning, and Association Annual Conference & distinguished herself by reporting from Exposition will be treated to the insights of the scene on transformational stories that a widely respected television news anchor broke on her watch. Her efforts follow- and investigative correspondent whose ing Hurricane Katrina and the tsunami in work serves as a catalyst for social change Phuket, Thailand, earned her numerous and to the expertise of one of the world’s awards and critical acclaim. Her initiative, foremost authorities on cognitive therapy. “Children of the Storm,” provided video Soledad O’Brien will be recognizable to cameras to young Katrina survivors so they many counselors as the host of CNN’s In could tell their stories of trial and triumph America series, as well as an anchor and in their own words and images. She also special correspondent for CNN: Special served as CNN’s point person for Presi- Investigations Unit, while Judith S. Beck dent George W. Bush’s visit to Mexico, is the president of the Beck Institute delivering a series of eye-opening reports for Cognitive Therapy and Research, a on conditions south of the border that fuel nonprofit organization that trains mental illegal immigration to the United States. health professionals in a form of psycho- O’Brien has received numerous honors therapy proved by numerous clinical trials for her work, including a Gracie Allen to be effective for a variety of disorders. Award for her 2007 coverage of the Israeli- Hezbollah conflict and the George Foster Soledad O’Brien Peabody Award and the Alfred I. DuPont Soledad O’Brien In her work for CNN’s special inves- Award for team coverage with CNN. Also tigations unit, O’Brien reports hourlong in 2007, the NAACP honored her with documentaries throughout the year and its President’s Award in recognition of files in-depth series on the most important her humanitarian efforts and journalistic ongoing and breaking news stories for all excellence. major CNN programs. She has covered Community Voices of the Morehouse Hurricane Katrina and the South Asian School of Medicine also created the tsunami, as well as breaking news in the Soledad O’Brien Freedom’s Voice Award war in Iraq and across the country. in her honor to recognize professionals As the host of CNN’s In America series, who serve as catalysts for social change she has reported for Black in America, within their fields. She was presented Black in America 2 and, most recently, with the award for her commitment to Latino in America. She is also the author covering news stories that others fail to of the recently released companion pursue and her willingness to be a voice Judith S. Beck book to Latino in America. The critically for those in society who are unable to acclaimed Black in America broke new speak for themselves. ground in revealing the current state of Before arriving at CNN, O’Brien the African American community 40 years anchored NBC News’ Weekend Today after the assassination of Martin Luther show and contributed reports for the King Jr. The landmark programming weekday Today Show and weekend featured documentaries and weekly editions of NBC Nightly News. In 2003, reports with fresh analysis about the real she also anchored NBC’s weekend lives behind the stereotypes, statistics and coverage of the war in Iraq. identity politics that frequently frame O’Brien is a member of the National As- the national dialogue about the African sociation of Black Journalists and the Na- American community. tional Association of Hispanic Journalists. 50 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Judith S. Beck books The Beck Diet Solution: Train Your overcome their difficulties by changing Beck directs the three major functions Brain to Think Like a Thin Person and The their thinking, behavior and responses. of the Beck Institute: educating Complete Beck Diet for Life. “In contrast to other forms of professionals in cognitive therapy through She is a founding fellow and past psychotherapy,” Judith Beck writes in a variety of training programs, clinical president of the Academy of Cognitive “Questions and Answers About Cognitive care and research. In addition, she is a Therapy, a nonprofit organization that Therapy,” an article that appears on the clinical associate professor of psychology certifies mental health professionals in institute’s website, “cognitive therapy in psychiatry at the University of cognitive therapy, and has served as a is usually more focused on the present, Pennsylvania, where she teaches psychiatry consultant for several research studies more time-limited and more problem- residents. She divides her time among conducted by the National Institute of solving oriented. Indeed, much of what teaching and supervision, administration, Mental Health. the patient does is solve current problems. clinical work, program development, Judith Beck is the daughter of Aaron In addition, patients learn specific skills research and writing. Beck, recognized as the “founding that they can use for the rest of their lives. Beck has written nearly 100 articles father of cognitive therapy.” The two These skills involve identifying distorted and book chapters and given hundreds cofounded the Beck Institute in 1994. In thinking, modifying beliefs, relating to of presentations, both nationally and addition to offering training in cognitive others in different ways and changing internationally, on a variety of topics therapy to health and mental health behaviors.” related to cognitive therapy. She is the professionals, the Beck Institute’s mission w author of the widely adopted textbooks includes helping to create and improve Cognitive Therapy: Basics and Beyond cognitive behavior therapy programs at The 2011 ACA Annual Conference (translated into more than 20 languages) universities, hospitals, community mental & Exposition will take place March 23- and Cognitive Therapy for Challenging health centers, health systems and other 27 in New Orleans. Soledad O’Brien Problems: What to Do When the Basics organizations. will provide the opening keynote March Don’t Work. Her other books include As described on the Beck Institute’s 25; Judith Beck will deliver the second Cognitive Therapy of Personality Disorders website (beckinstitute.org), cognitive keynote March 26. and the Oxford Textbook of Psychotherapy. therapy is a form of psychotherapy in For more information or to register for She has also written extensively for which the therapist and client work the ACA Conference, visit counseling.org/ consumers on a cognitive behavioral together as a team to identify and solve conference or call 800.347.6647 ext. 222. approach to weight loss, including the problems. Therapists help clients to Register early to receive the best rates. u September 2010 | Counseling Today | 51 NBCC Perspective - By Shawn W. O’Brien Ensuring the validity of the NCE he National Certified by practitioners. These test specifications, 4) Reviews each form of the NCE Counselor (NCC) certification empirically derived from a national job to ensure the examination contains Tprogram, developed and analysis study, represent the plan for the specified number of items, with maintained by the National Board development of a criterion-referenced representative sampling of tasks within for Certified Counselors, has been each major category. The committee is examination. Each form of the exam accredited by the National Commission guided by the test specifications, which for Certifying Agencies for more than contains the exact number of questions as were empirically derived from the job 20 years. As part of the certification identified in the test specifications. Each analysis study. process, applicants must take and pass test form developed to match these job- 5) After each administration the National Counselor Examination related specifications has strong evidence of the NCE, committee and staff for Licensure and Certification (NCE). of content validity. psychometricians review the psychometric Therefore, establishing the validity Every NCE item is reviewed by properties of each of the items and the of the NCE is crucial. This can be examination as a whole. the NCE Examination Development done by proving content validity, or 6) Reviews item and examination the degree to which the items on a Committee. This committee is composed development processes to ensure the licensure/certification examination of 12 subject-matter experts representing NCE adheres to the Standards for are representative of the knowledge a variety of ethnic groups, degree levels, Educational and Psychological Testing and/or skills necessary for competent geographic regions, work settings and (1999) and the Uniform Guidelines performance. specialty areas of practice. The committee on Employee Selection Procedures when The federal Uniform Guidelines on includes at least three representatives evaluating the test, testing practices and Employee Selection Procedures (1978) states the interpretation of test scores. from the state counseling boards. that content validity is an appropriate The NBCC examination program is strategy when the “job domain is defined Every six months, the NCE indebted to the dedicated professional through job analysis by identifying Examination Development Committee counselors who volunteer their time important tasks, behaviors or knowledge performs the following to ensure the and talents as subject-matter experts. and the test … is a representative sample validity of the NCE: These individuals provide the counseling of tasks, behaviors or knowledge drawn 1) Classifies items according to the content knowledge needed to create from that domain.” Detailed Content Outline derived from and maintain a professional job-related Every five to seven years, NBCC licensure and certification examination. the national job analysis of professional conducts a job analysis to serve as the NBCC welcomes qualified professional basis for documenting the content counselors. counselors to serve on one of the several validity of the NCE. The purpose of the 2) Refines the item pool by rejecting examination-related committees. If you NBCC study is twofold: 1) to determine items that are too specialized. These are interested in serving your profession and comprehensively describe the job are items considered to be “out of in this capacity, please contact NBCC of the professional counselor and 2) to the domain” in terms of the content at [email protected] to receive a evaluate this description through the knowledge considered to be necessary screening application. u ratings of job experts to define areas that for a “minimally” competent professional should be assessed in a certification/ licensure examination. counselor The NBCC NCE Job Analysis 3) Reviews each item every time that Advisory Committee prepares a item is scheduled to be used on an comprehensive list of activities and examination. The committee checks Shawn W. O’Brien is NBCC vice issues related to the job. This inventory for psychometric properties of each president, Center for Credentialing is completed by a representative sample item; ensures content accuracy, content and Education Inc. of job experts throughout the United distribution and overlap; and conducts States, and the rating results are reviewed Letters to the editor: by the advisory committee. These results verification of quality items. The items [email protected] are used to develop test specifications are also rechecked for potential gender, directly related to the important activities race/ethnicity, geographical/cultural or performed and the client issues dealt with other types of bias. 52 | Counseling Today | September 2010 4HE !#! #ONFERENCE %XPOSITION s -ARCH -ARCH (Pre-conference Learning Institutes*) New Orleans Judith S. Beck, PhD President and co-founder with her father Aaron T. Beck, MD, of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research in Philadelphia—an international training ground for cognitive and cognitive-behavioral therapists. Soledad O’Brien CNN’s highly acclaimed special correspondent and host of In America documentaries, Hear why she is committed to being a voice for those in society who are unable to speak for themselves. Plus…. 500+ Education Sessions selected by a peer-review process More than 150 Advance Level sessions 40 intensive Pre-conference Learning Institutes Dozens of ACA Division, Branch and Region programs, social gatherings Special events such as the Opening Party, International Forum and more Networking opportunities galore! Largest Exposition in the world dedicated to counseling Free consultations on careers, private practice issues 0LUS RACK UP #% CREDITS DURING THE MAIN CONFERENCE DAYS AT NO EXTRA CHARGE (other than a single $15 processing fee) %ARN UP TO MORE WITH 0RE CONFERENCE ,EARNING )NSTITUTES Register by November 30 and Save! Online: counseling.org/conference Phone: 800-347-6647, x222 (M-F, 8 am – 7 pm, ET) Fax: 800-473-2329 * Separate registration fee applies September 2010 | Counseling Today | 53 See you in New Orleans! division, region & Branch News ArCA invites submissions posted on our website at collegecounseling. Credentialing and Education and the for Annual Conference org. With a theme of “The Gateway to National Board for Certified Counselors Submitted by Danette Heckathorn Excellence in College Counseling,” the and leads to the credential and listing on [email protected] conference will be held at the Hyatt the NECA registry. I want to take this opportunity to invite Regency St. Louis Riverfront. Our last In today’s challenging economy, this you to register and submit a program for four conferences have been extremely credential will furnish the best skills and the 2010 Arkansas Counseling Association successful, so I encourage you to join us. resources to work as a private counseling Annual Conference Nov. 17-19 in the This is an event you will not want to miss! practitioner or to run a workforce beautiful Hot Springs Convention Center. Brett Sokolow, president of the National development center, one-stop career center The theme of this conference is Center for Higher Education Risk or community college or university career “The Amazing Race for Prevention.” Management, will deliver the keynote center. Most important, the training is Prevention has always been at the heart address. He will also offer a preconference designed to help counselors provide clients of the counseling profession; however, it session on “The Role of Counselors in with the skills to do a better job with is sometimes pushed to the side as we put Campus Threat Assessment.” We have personal career management — a solution out the fires of day-to-day challenges. It is been approved for continuing education for success and a high priority with the our hope that this conference will remind units for licensed professional counselors employability issues most adults face us of our prevention roots and encourage and social workers. We have applied for today. Register for the next online course us to share ways to further our prevention CEUs for psychologists and expect for by Sept. 15 at employmentcounseling.org. efforts as counselors. Contestants on the some sessions to be approved. Stay tuned Twelve weeks of instruction are broken up TV show The Amazing Race are often to our website for more information on by a holiday season break from Nov. 24 to challenged with obstacles such as pit stops, the conference. If you have questions, Jan. 11, and the training will complete on road blocks, flight delays and more. As contact Sylvia Shortt at accaorg@ Feb. 9. The cost is $900 with a 10 percent counselors, we are also faced with such mindspring.com. Meet me in St. Louis! discount for NECA members. challenges, and our final destination may In other news, ACCA and PaperClip Miami’s Blue Lagoon Hotel is the seem unobtainable. It is our hope that this Communications are presenting an setting for a second training opportunity: conference will provide you with the tools online seminar for college counselors, an Oct. 9 workshop on “Employment and fuel needed to overcome the obstacles educators and student affairs staff entitled Solutions for Success.” The focus will be you may face and put you on the road to “Suicide Attempts & Hospitalization: centered on today’s economy and tools and your destination. Seven Critical Issues for Higher Ed.” This information to help clients and counselors To register and submit a program program will be aired on Sept. 14 and is in the continuing tough economy. The proposal for the annual conference, please available for purchase on CD after the workshop will be held in conjunction visit arcounseling.org, enter your member event for staff training. Join us for the low with the Florida Counseling Association’s ID and password, and click on the 2010 price of $239, regardless of how many Annual Conference and will run from 1 to Conference link to begin the registration staff attend. CEUs will be offered. To learn 5 p.m., with a fee of $45 (including a $10 process. If you are not a member of ArCA, more or sign up, visit paper-clip.com. discount for FCA attendees). Attendees simply follow the steps outlined when can earn up to four CEUs. NECA offers fall training events you click on registration and program With the lowest reported level of job focused on today’s economy proposal. Thank you, and I hope to see satisfaction in two decades, this workshop you in November! Submitted by Kay Brawley offers topics focusing on counselors [email protected] and their clients, including “Helping ACCA hosts conference, webi- The National Employment Counseling Counselors Make More Money,” nar Association has a busy training schedule “Entrepreneurial Career Opportunities,” Submitted by Sylvia Shortt this fall. It kicks off Sept. 22 with an “Bouncing Back From Unemployment” [email protected] opportunity for workforce practitioners and “Writing Winning Proposals for Make your plans now to come to to attain the Global Career Development Corporate and Federal Work.” For more the fifth American College Counseling Facilitator Credential via a new online information, visit employmentcounseling. Association National Conference in St. course with full instructor support. The org or contact Kay Brawley, NECA Louis, Oct. 6-9. The registration form and curriculum, “Working Ahead, Moving professional development director, at a list of programs that will be offered are Forward,” is approved by the Center for [email protected]. u 54 | Counseling Today | September 2010 September 2010 | Counseling Today | 55 Sokolow, president of the National Center Expressive Therapies Summit Bulletin board for Higher Education Risk Management, Nov. 12-15 will be the keynote speaker. Preconference New York Coming events sessions will be offered for those who would Attention, Association for Creativity like more in-depth workshops, including in Counseling members! The first An- AACE National Assessment “Best Practices for Behavioral Intervention nual Expressive Therapies Summit will be and Research Conference and Threat Assessment” presented by held in New York City’s Times Square in Sept. 10-11 Sokolow. For more information, visit November. The event will offer more than Memphis, Tenn. collegecounseling.org or contact Sylvia Shortt 50 distinguished clinicians, researchers and The Association for Assessment in at [email protected]. Counseling and Education is hosting its educators offering papers, panels, workshops annual conference at the Holiday Inn FCA Annual Convention and classes. This extraordinary gathering of Memphis Airport Hotel. As an added Oct. 10-11 creative arts therapists will feature art, dance, feature this year, AACE is hosting a Miami music, drama and poetry therapies, as well preconference workshop on “Ethical The Florida Counseling Association’s 61st as psychodrama, play therapy and sandplay. Annual Convention returns 10-10-10 to Challenges in Counseling and Assessment” Behavioral health care professionals and the excitement, energy and sabor (flavor) of on Sept. 9. For registration and hotel educators are welcome. Daily and package information, visit theaaceonline.com/ south Florida. Scheduling the conference on a Sunday and Monday allows attendees registrations are limited, and CEUs are avail- conference. Attendees can earn as many as 13 able. For more information, visit summit. continuing education units. to make this year’s event a destination vacation. Launching sailboats into Biscayne expressivemedia.org. Accessing the Language Bay during the Columbus Day regatta of the Body in Treatment and holding an alligator after experiencing FYI Sept. 23 an Everglades airboat ride are part of the Brooklyn, N.Y. conference experience. Preconference is Call for editorial board reviewers This full-day seminar for those who Oct. 9. For more information, e-mail The ACA Publications Committee invites treat eating disorders will offer counselors [email protected]. you to apply for a position on the Editorial a chance to learn how to discover and Advisory Board. This review board serves trust their ability to attend empathically ACAM Seminar in an advisory capacity to the ACA director and translate nonverbal experiences into Oct. 23 of publications and the ACA Publications cognitive insights. Experiential body/ Kansas City, Mo. mind exercises will be used, along with The American Counseling Association of Committee. Members review proposals didactic presentation, to integrate a more Missouri and the Avila University Depart- for publications and other media that are embodied approach into counseling theory ment of Psychology will present a seminar submitted to ACA for possible inclusion in and practice. Participants will learn how featuring Harriet Lerner, a leading voice on the publishing program. The Publications embodied methods can be used to treat eat- the psychology of women and family rela- Committee considers these reviews when ing disorders. For more information, contact tionships. Lerner, a distinguished lecturer, determining which projects ACA will pur- therapist, consultant and workshop leader, the American Dance Therapy Association sue. For more information on position and will speak about “Shame: A Blueprint for at 410.997.4040 or e-mail [email protected]. application requirements, contact Carolyn Attendees can earn as many as six CEUs. Restoring Voice and Self-Esteem.” For more information, visit counselingmissouri.org. Baker, director of publications, at cbaker@ NZAC & ACA Conference counseling.org. The application deadline is Sept. 30-Oct. 2 ACAM Day of Continuing Ed Sept. 8. Auckland, New Zealand Oct. 30 Call for submissions The New Zealand Association of St. Louis The Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Counsellors and the Australian Counselling The American Counseling Association Association invite colleagues to their annual of Missouri, the American Counseling and Transgender Issues in Counseling invites conference, being held at the Langham Association of Missouri-St. Louis and submissions for The Journal of LGBT Issues Hotel. Conference workshop topics include Missouri Baptist University will host a day of in Counseling. The intent of this journal is culturally appropriate counseling, holistic continuing education seminars at Missouri to publish articles relevant to working with counseling, bullying, play therapy and Baptist University. The morning speaker will sexual minorities and articles of interest to substance abuse. For more information, visit be Charles E. Stikes, professor of psychology counselors, counselor educators and other at Missouri Baptist, speaking on the topic of registration.ozaccom.com.au/ei/2010/acn10. counseling-related professionals. Topic “Assessment and Diagnosis.” The afternoon areas include new research, new or innova- ACCA Conference presenter will be Tricia K. Brown, who Oct. 6-9 teaches and supervises in the Play Therapy tive practices and theoretical or conceptual St. Louis Certification Program at MidAmerica pieces that reflect new ideas or new ways Make your plans now to come to the fifth Nazarene University, and she will focus of integrating previously held ideas. The American College Counseling Association on play therapy. Attendees can earn up to journal is distributed quarterly. For submis- Conference, themed “ACCA: The Gateway three CEUs. For more information, visit sion guidelines, contact Ned Farley, editor, at to Excellence in College Counseling.” Brett counselingmissouri.org. [email protected]. u 56 | Counseling Today | September 2010 News & notes Judge: University didn’t infringe should prove to be of great interest and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. on ex-student’s religious rights help to professional counselors around According to the report, 90 different As Counseling Today went to press, the world. Both sections can be accessed medicines are in development to treat the American Counseling Association through the “Resources” tab of the ACA forms of dementia, 71 to treat depression, received word that a federal court had website at counseling.org. 54 to treat schizophrenia, 38 to treat handed down a decision in the landmark Counseling Today recognized anxiety disorders and 33 apiece to case Julea Ward v. Roy Wilbanks et al. U.S. for writing, design excellence treat addictive disorders and eating District Judge George Caram Steeh ruled disorders. Multiple drugs are also under for the defendant, Eastern Michigan Counseling Today received four awards development to treat attention-deficit/ University (EMU). for writing and design in two national hyperactivity disorder, developmental EMU dismissed Ward from its graduate publications contests this summer. counseling program in March 2009 Senior writer Lynne Shallcross was the disorders and personality disorders, because she refused to counsel an assigned recipient of a Communications Concepts among other conditions. The report notes practicum client on the basis that he was APEX Award for Publication Excellence that some medicines are in development homosexual. The Alliance Defense Fund, in the category of health and medical for more than one disorder. a Christian legal group, then sued the writing for “A national obsession,” her The report states that researching and university on behalf of Ward, accusing February 2010 cover story on eating developing new medicines costs $1.3 EMU of violating her First Amendment disorders and body image issues. billion on average and that it generally right to religious freedom. Graphic designer Carlos Soto earned takes 10 to 15 years to bring a new Steeh ruled that EMU did not an APEX Award for cover design for his medicine to patients. February 2009 cover that illustrated an discriminate against Ward because of her According to the National Institute of article on mind-body wellness. religion. He stated that the counseling Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated Editor-in-chief Jonathan Rollins program was upholding the ethics 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and received an APEX Award for feature standards of the profession as expressed older contend with a diagnosable mental writing for “A natural resource,” the through the ACA Code of Ethics and that disorder in any given year. Of those with refusal to counsel a client on the basis of October 2009 cover story on the a mental disorder, 45 percent meet the sexual orientation was a clear violation of connections being drawn between nature criteria for two or more disorders. the nondiscrimination section within the and mental health. ACA ethics code. In addition, Rollins’ two-part series Nominate deserving ACA Counseling Today will follow up on this on working with clients who have members for National Awards strong religious beliefs (July and case in greater detail in a future issue. The ACA Awards Committee is August 2009) received a Silver Award currently seeking nominations for the ACA adds web sections in the category of best series of articles 2011 ACA National Awards, which on disaster mental health, appearing in a print magazine in the will be presented at the ACA Annual counselor wellness Publications Management Magnum ACA recently unveiled two new Opus competition. Magnum Opus Conference & Exposition in March. sections on its website focusing on awards gold, silver, bronze and honorable ACA members can nominate one or disaster mental health and counselor mention citations in various writing and more fellow ACA members who have wellness and impairment, respectively. design categories. made noteworthy contributions to the The disaster mental health section Counseling Today has won 20 awards counseling profession at the local, state or includes more than a dozen fact sheets for writing and design since 2005. This national levels. ACA divisions, regions, for counselors on trauma and disaster is the sixth straight year that the monthly branches, organizational affiliates, and also provides a wealth of additional publication has received recognition in chapters or committees may also submit references and links. This new section of at least one national-level publications nominations. All nominations must be the website came out of the work done by contest. submitted by Nov. 8, 2010. the ACA Traumatology Interest Network. Complete information on the The new counselor wellness and Over 300 drugs being developed nominations process is available on the impairment section provides information to treat various mental illnesses on risk factors for impairment, wellness According to a report from the ACA website at counseling.org under assessment strategies, wellness strategies Pharmaceutical Research and “Resources.” You may also request a and much more. It is the result of the Manufacturers of America, 313 medicines 2011 National Awards Packet by outcome of the ACA Task Force on are currently undergoing research and calling ACA Leadership Services at Counselor Wellness and Impairment. development to treat a variety of mental 800.347.6647 ext. 212. Contact Holly These new sections of the ACA website illnesses. All of the drugs are either in Clubb at [email protected] for contain important information that clinical trials or waiting to be reviewed by additional information. u September 2010 | Counseling Today | 57 massive layoffs of school counselors, ACA congratulates grant winners Washington Update teachers and other school staff for the for this competitive, underfunded upcoming school year. Experts predict program. For more details, including Continued from page 10 as many as 300,000 layoffs in the a list of new grantees, visit the ACA education system nationwide because Legislative Update/Latest News 2011. This is a victory for ACA and other of state budget crises in the wake of the webpage at counseling.org/PublicPolicy/ school counseling supporters because it nation’s economic recession. The House LegislativeUpdate.aspx. represents a $2 million increase over the of Representatives had passed a version States vie for new safe program’s current funding level. However, of the war-spending bill that included this funding increase is in danger of and supportive schools grants $10 billion for education jobs aid. The The Education Department has slipping away as the appropriations Senate, however, passed a much leaner process continues. The full Senate still opened the grant competition for its bill that excluded the aid. House leaders needs to vote on the bill, and the House pilot school climate survey initiative, eventually embraced the Senate version Appropriations Committee has yet to spearheaded by Office of Safe and of the war bill. consider its own spending bill for these Drug-Free Schools Assistant Deputy Legislators who support the education agencies. Secretary Kevin Jennings. ACA and jobs aid are considering attaching the ACA asks all counselors to contact other organizations have provided the aid to other legislation moving through their two senators and their congressman/ Education Department with significant Congress. ACA asks counselors to congresswoman to advocate for increased input throughout the initiative’s continue to ask their lawmakers to funding for ESSCP (as described in The development, attending a series of support the education jobs aid to help Two-Minute Advocate on page 11), stakeholder meetings held by Jennings and we thank those of you who already save school counselors’ jobs. For more and his staff. have done so. Advocacy such as this is information or to share your ideas The department intends to award crucial because ESSCP has a target on and concerns on fighting for school five to seven grants to state education its back; the Obama administration has counseling jobs, contact Dominic Holt. agencies to support statewide measurement of learning environments asked Congress to eliminate funding School counseling program for ESSCP and similar small programs and targeted implementation of awardees announced programmatic interventions to address in favor of a new, larger, less focused The U.S. Department of Education Successful, Safe and Healthy Students identified problems. Grants will focus Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools on improving school safety and reducing program. For more information or to announced new FY 2010 grantees for share your school counseling successes substance use. Awardees will have ESSCP. Forty-one school districts are the grant for as long as four years, for and challenges, contact Dominic Holt receiving grants of as much as $400,000 with ACA at 800.347.6647 ext. 242 or $1 million to $12 million each year, a year for three years to establish or depending on the number of enrolled [email protected]. expand school counseling programs in students in the state. War funding bill passes Con- elementary, K-12 or secondary schools. For more details on the program, gress without education jobs The Education Department opens the visit the Education Department aid grant competition every other year website at www2.ed.gov/programs/ Congress has sent an emergency war- and funds approximately 10 percent of safesupportiveschools/applicant.html. u spending bill to the president that does applications. School districts across 20 not include education funds to prevent states obtained grants. From The President Continued from page 5 groups, but do we actively engage in Leadership Training, which took place because of a great collaboration with the this type of practice ourselves? Even in July, embodied collaboration at its National Board for Certified Counselors. within our own organizational structure, best. This is fitting because of the ACA I know how comfortable it can we could be at risk of perpetuating leadership’s emphasis on the importance be to connect with “like” people or this separateness if we were to practice of working together. In another example, organizations. That is how we all became “divisiveness” among our divisions and while in Africa, I was able to connect a part of this great organization. But we regions. with some of our counseling colleagues in cannot stop there. Professionally, it is Thankfully, this couldn’t be further Malawi to discuss ways we might be able our responsibility to explore and expand from our goal. In fact, the 2010 American to facilitate their growth organizationally. our worldviews through our active Counseling Association Institute for This connection was made possible participation with “differentness.” u 58 | Counseling Today | September 2010 Help Your Clients Work Learning Into Life THE CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE +HUHLVDJUHDWSLHFHRIDGYLFHWKDWFDQPDNHDWDQJLEOHGLIIHUHQFHLQVRPHRQH¶VIXWXUH 7KH&HQWHUIRU3URIHVVLRQDO'HYHORSPHQWDW([FHOVLRU&ROOHJHRIIHULQJWKHHGXFDWLRQDQG VNLOOVQHHGHGWRDGYDQFHLQDFXUUHQWMRERUVWDUWDQHZFDUHHU$QGOLNHWKHGHJUHHSURJUDPVDW ([FHOVLRU&ROOHJHWKH&HQWHU¶VQRQFUHGLWSURJUDPVDUHGHVLJQHGWRSURYLGHD¿UVWUDWHRQOLQH OHDUQLQJH[SHULHQFHIRUDGXOWVWXGHQWV $WWKH&HQWHUWKHUHDUHRYHUQRQFUHGLWSURJUDPVLQWRGD\¶VIDVWHVWJURZLQJFDUHHU¿HOGV EXVLQHVVDGPLQLVWUDWLRQKHDOWKFDUHSURMHFWPDQDJHPHQWLQYHVWLJDWLYHVFLHQFHVXVWDLQDEOH HQHUJ\FRPSXWHUWHFKQRORJ\DQGPXFKPRUH1RZDLWLQJIRUDVHPHVWHUWREHJLQ HYHU\FRXUVH LVDYDLODEOHZKHQWKHVWXGHQWLVUHDG\²QRPDWWHUZKHUHLQWKHZRUOGWKDWVWXGHQWPLJKWEH 2XU&DPSXVLV:KHUHYHU WWW.EXCELSIOR.EDU/CPD September 2010 | Counseling Today | 59 u Classified advertising categories include: Calendar; Merchandise & Services; Consult- ing; Office Space Available; Business Oppor- tunities; Educational Programs; Call for Pro- grams/Papers. Other categories can be added at no charge. Classifieds u Rates: Standard in-column format: $10 ATTRACT MORE per line based on 30 characters per line, FULL-FEE CLIENTS SANCTUARY OF THE SOUL $60 minimum. $8 per line for advertisers prepaying for six months. No cancellations List your practice on Find-a-Therapist. www.soulpoetry.org: Poems of anguish, or refunds. Classified ads can be placed on- com. Thousands of visitors search our healing, hope, comfort and celebra- line only at a rate of $8 per line, based on 30 site each month and over half of them are tion. Endorsed by Elie Wiesel, Wayne characters per line; 30-day posting. private pay clients! Niche market your Dyer, Nikki Giovanni, Patricia Evans u Employment ads are listed under inter- practice by listing on 5 of over 50 directo- and Drs. Alice Miller, Larry Dossey, national or national by state. ries to choose from. 1-866-450-3463 Frank Ochberg, Ellen Langer, This is a u Rates: $10 per line based on 30 charac- book which would fit well in your office. ters per line, $150 minimum. $8 per line for PHD DISSERTATION CONSULTING advertisers prepaying for three months. No cancellations or refunds. Employment ads Complete thesis support from hypoth- BECOME A LICENSED HEAL YOUR can be placed online only at a rate of $8 per esis to presentation and defense. Cus- LIFE® WORKSHOP LEADER. line, based on 30 characters per line; 30-day tomized assistance including hypothesis posting. Train to lead up to 14 different work- generation or critique, literature review, shops from the philosophy of Louise Hay. Display ads in the employment classified test design, test correlation, statistical section are available and can be designed by Authorized by Hay House, Inc. Complete ACA’s graphics department. Call for details. analysis, thesis writing, presentation and manuals and materials. www.healyour- defense. Brian Bacon, Brian Bacon & Classified and employment ads are not com- lifetraining.com missionable and are billed at net rate only. Associates, 850-236-8235 or bsbacon@ knology.net. ADD PSYCHOANALYTIC u ACA Members: If you are seeking a po- COACHING sition you may place a 45-word ad for $10. This is a one-time insertion only. Merchandise/ TO YOUR COUNSELING SKILLS u Deadlines: Vary per issue. Contact Kathy Services Dato Psychoanalytic Institute provides Maguire at 607.662.4451 or kmaguire@ excellent training at the Institute and by counseling.org for further details. phone. Free initial consultation offered u Direct all copy or inquiries to BILLING SERVICE www.datopsychoanalyticinstitute.com Kathy Maguire via e-mail at Need more time? Let us handle your [email protected]. LET US DO YOUR NEWSLETTER billing needs! We are experienced & FOR YOU! Phone: 607.662.4451 committed to you! BC Medical Claims Fax: 607.662.4415 Phone# 724-744-0767 Unique, guaranteed service used and loved by other counselors to grow their u Ads are subject to Counseling Today ap- Toll Free Fax # 1-866-713-4569 proval; however, Counseling Today cannot Email: [email protected] practice! www.NewslettersForTherapists. screen or evaluate all products or services com (866) 200-6945. advertised in the classified section and does Editing Service/Writing not guarantee their value or authentic- Coach THE FAMILY & MARRIAGE ity. The publication of an advertisement in COUNSELING DIRECTORY Counseling Today is in no way an endorse- Are you working on an article, thesis ment by ACA of the advertiser or the prod- or a book and need help with writing or Get referrals from one of the top ucts or services advertised. Advertisers may editing? Well-qualified consultation on ranked family & marriage counseling not incorporate in subsequent advertising or sites on the web. http://family-marriage- promotion the fact that a product or service all aspects of craft and/or copy editing has been advertised in any ACA publication. offered remotely or by phone. Contact counseling.com. ACA endorses equal opportunity practices Plynn: [email protected] or and will not knowingly accept ads that dis- (480) 282-3912 LICENSURE EXAM REVIEW criminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, NCE & NCMHCE Exam Prep Re- national origin, sexual orientation, disability or age. view. Multiple choice questions, mne- CRUISE FOR CREDITS monics. Exam Tips, online and interac- u Counseling Today reserves the right to edit all copy, request additional documenta- Want to Travel to Exciting Places on a tive Check out our FREE SAMPLER!! tion where indicated and to refuse ads that Relaxing CRUISE and Earn Continuing [email protected] www.CounselingExam. are not in consonance with these practices. Education CREDITS? You Can! Very com ACA is not responsible for any claims made reasonable pricing and much cheaper in advertisements nor for the specific posi- CRAZED BY CLIENT BILLING? tion title or working of any particular posi- than land conferences. tion listed in employment classified ads. Call Debbie at 918-734-4335 or visit Visit www.ShrinkRapt.com today and www.CruisingforCredits.com learn more about ShrinkRapt™ the top 60 | Counseling Today | September 2010 selling billing and insurance program for the page. works closely with other departments in mental health practitioners. Easy to use! Student Life and facilitates partnerships Ohio Order today and receive a FREE Email and collaboration with other University & FREE Backup Module! Limited time departments, administrators, faculty, offer! Request a fully functional Demo MOUNT CARMEL staff, and community agencies to ensure Package at www.ShrinkRapt.com or by EAP Account Manager the provision of adequate mental health calling Saner Software Inc (630) 513- Serving more than a half million pa- services that support student develop- 5599. tients each year, Mount Carmel is the sec- ment, academic achievement, and student ond-largest healthcare system in central success. The University Counseling DISSERTATION COMPLETION Ohio. Our more than 8,000 employees Center also oversees the classroom test CONSULTING and 1,500 physicians utilize state-of-the- scoring program, administers national Individualized program assists with all art facilities, advanced technologies and testing programs, supervises coordina- aspects of dissertation and thesis writ- the latest procedures to accomplish our tion of all aspects of student evaluation ing. By phone, by FAX, by e-mail, or in mission of healing patients’ minds, bodies surveys, and reviews disability documen- person. Call “toll free” 1-(888) 463-6999 and spirits, and improving the health of tation and write accommodation recom- or [email protected] the communities we serve. Reporting to mendations. The successful candidate will the Director of HelpNet. In accordance possess a Doctorate degree in Clinical or with the mission of Trinity Health Battle Counseling Psychology from an APA ac- EMPLOYMENT Creek Health System dba HelpNet, credited program, Pennsylvania Psycholo- the Account Manager is responsible for gist License or Counselor License with managing multiple EAP accounts. Can- supervision certification, and at least 5-7 NEW JERSEY didates for the EAP Account Manager years or more clinical experience in a position must have: university counseling center setting with FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON Masters Degree required in Behavioral experience in a supervisory capacity. Ap- UNIVERSITY Health field; Social Work or Counseling. plicants must also be willing to contribute Assistant Professor/Clinical Mental Independent licensure preferred. actively to the University Mission and Health Counseling Maintain applicable State Licensure or to respect the Spiritan Catholic identity Primary duties include teaching both Certification. Three years experience post of Duquesne University. The Mission is Psychology undergraduate and graduate Masters preferred in EAP and/or social implemented through a commitment to level courses in the Master of Arts Clini- work or counseling. Mount Carmel academic excellence, a spirit of service, cal Mental Health Counseling program. offers a competitive salary and benefits moral and spiritual values, sensitivity The successful candidate will demonstrate package, including tuition assistance, to world concerns, and an ecumeni- excellence in curriculum development, medical/dental coverage, childcare cal campus community. Duquesne is a teaching undergraduate psychology and discounts and more. Mount Carmel is private, coeducational university with an equal opportunity employer commit- graduate courses in general psychology, more than 10,000 students. An extensive ted to a diverse and inclusive workforce. psychopharmacology, crisis interven- selection of undergraduate and gradu- Interested candidates, please view full tion, addictions counseling, drugs and ate degree programs is offered across 10 position descriptions and apply online at alcohol and substance abuse, theories of schools of study. Duquesne is consistently www.mountcarmelhealth.com. counseling, practicum and internship ranked among the nation’s top Catholic in counseling. The individual must be universities for its award-winning faculty able to engage in academic advisement Pennsylvania and tradition of academic excellence. and have the ability to interact positively Nominations and expressions of inter- with students, peers, administrators, and DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY est will be treated in confidence and others. Earned doctorate in clinical or shall consist of a cover letter, curriculum counseling psychology, LPC in Counsel- Director, University Counseling Center ing. LCADC, SAC, NCE certification, Duquesne University seeks nomina- vitae, and contact information for three Approved Clinical Supervisor. Employ- tions and applications for the position professional references. Complete applica- ment is contingent upon a satisfactory of Director of the University Counseling tion may be forwarded to: Director of background check. Candidates for hire Center. Under the general direction of University Counseling Center Search, will be required to sign a waiver authoriz- the Executive Vice President for Stu- c/o Office of Human Resource Manage- ing the background check and produce a dent Life, the Director of the University ment, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Social Security Card. Fairleigh Dickinson Counseling Center is responsible for the Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282. View University is an Equal Opportunity/Af- administration, planning and evaluation complete job posting at www.duq.edu/ firmative Action Employer committed to of campus counseling and psychiatry hrApplications will be received until a diverse workforce M/F/D/V. Interested services, including training and super- position is filled.Duquesne University candidates can learn more about and ap- vision of the professional counseling, was founded in 1878 by its sponsoring ply for this position through the Univer- administrative, and support staff. The religious community, the Congregation of sity’s Web site (www.fdu.edu) by clicking Director also oversees and provides direct the Holy Spirit. Duquesne University is on the Employment link at the bottom of clinical services to students. The Director Catholic in its mission and ecumenical in September 2010 | Counseling Today | 61 spirit. Motivated by its Catholic identity, superior benefits & an excellent pension and fitness center. Applicants are encour- Duquesne values equality of opportunity plan. Located in the Puget Sound region aged to visit our website to view further both as an educational institution and as about 25 miles north of Seattle, Everett is job details and to apply online: www. an employer. well situated for cultural events & year- luthermidelfort.org Tobacco-free/Drug- round outdoor recreation. Shift work free Workplace/EOE LASALLE UNIVERSITY required. Open until filled. Candidates Assistant Professor, Psychology must pass job-related tests & a back- The Psychology Department of La ground process including polygraph & WYOMING Salle University invites applicants for a psychological evaluation, a drug screen & full-time tenure track position starting a comprehensive criminal history/back- YELLOWSTONE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH January, 2011. Primary responsibilities ground investigation .For qualifications CENTER will be in the master’s program which & Civil Service application materials, go Hope House Team Leader prepares students for licensure as profes- to Job Opportunities at Yellowstone Behavioral Health Center sional counselors and marriage and family www.snoco.org Questions? Contact therapists, but courses may also be taught Civil Service Examiner lynn.trowbridge@ (YBHC) is searching for a person who is in the doctoral or undergraduate pro- snoco.org EOE eligible for provisional or full licensure in grams. Responsibilities include teaching WY. The position will involve providing courses in mental health counseling, par- WISCONSIN individual and group therapy services in ticipating in program development and a clubhouse setting for the Severely and providing student advisement. Scholarly LUTHER MIDELFORT Persistently Mentally Ill (SPMI), assist- research and university service are also Employee Assistance Professional ing in program design/development, and expected. Candidates shall have obtained providing brief therapy services to SPMI a doctorate in Counseling or Counseling THE ONE FOR YOUR CAREER. and non-SPMI clients in crisis. Sup- Education or a closely related field from a In partnership with Mayo Clinic, port will also be provided in preparing CACREP accredited program or equiva- Luther Midelfort is a progressive multi- lent. Candidates with expertise in coun- specialty healthcare organization. Within for the licensure exam, for provisionally seling with underserved minority popula- our culture of respect are many opportu- licensed therapists. You will work closely tions are encouraged to apply. Please nities to develop your strengths and skills with many community agencies. YBHC send a letter of application describing as you grow along with us. The following is located in historic Cody, Wyoming, opportunity is now available with our Or- your counseling, teaching and research 50 miles east of Yellowstone National ganizational Consulting and Employee interests, curriculum vita, 3 letters of rec- Park and within a short drive of many ommendation, copies of transcripts and Assistance Program: Employee Assistance Professional, Eau ski resorts, scenic mountain hiking, evaluations of teaching, if available to: and world class trout fishing. Benefit John J. Rooney, Ph.D., Chair, Psychology Claire, WI package includes; 4 weeks paid vaca- Search Committee, La Salle University, You’ll provide timely assessment, coun- tion (20 days) per year, sick leave, family Box 828, 1900 W. Olney Ave., Philadel- seling, evaluation , referral, recommenda- phia, PA 19141.Review of applications tions and follow up for a wide range of leave, retirement plan, medical benefits, will commence immediately and will con- problems and concerns for employees and productivity based bonus, and mileage tinue until the position is filled. La Salle their family members in areas of gen- reimbursement for travel. We are looking University is a Roman Catholic university eral mental health/counseling; chemical for a positive person to join our cohe- dependency and recovery issues. Provide in the tradition of the De la Salle Chris- sive, energetic, and dedicated team. We supervisory coaching and consultation, tian Brothers and welcomes applicants are also a National Health Service Corp from all backgrounds who can contribute and education and training to business and industry. Ensure safe environment Loan repayment site.The position is with to our unique educational mission. For a Yellowstone Behavioral Health Center in complete mission statement, please visit of care. Apply principles of continuous Cody, WY, a private, non-profit center. our website at www.lasalle.edu AA/EOE. improvement to all aspects of the job performance. Requirements: Master’s The title is HOPE House Team Leader. degree in Social Work, Guidance and The contact person is Steve Humphries- WASHINGTON Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy Wadsworth. You may contact me at or related field. CISD Mitchell Basic 1-800-949-8839 or [email protected] SNOHOMISH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Training eligible. Certified Employee EVERETT, WA and our fax number is 1-307-527-6218. Assistance Professional eligibility.4 years Salary range is $36,300 (for provision- Mental Health Professional experience in Behavioral Health Coun- ally licensed applicants)--approximately To $5,689 / per month + benefits seling, Licensed as a Marriage & Family Seeking a full-time MHP to join our Therapist, Social Worker, or Professional $45,000 and is based on experience. team providing medical and mental Counselor by the State of Wisconsin health care to incarcerated adults. Work Division of Community Services. Luther is performed in a secure adult detention Midelfort offers a competitive wage, full facility and offers competitive wages, benefits package, and on-site child care 62 | Counseling Today | September 2010 CON-CT0910_CON-CT 0210 7/22/10 10:34 AM Page 1 A counselor’s story… 8:00 a.m. Get to the office early. Start the coffee. Check voice mail. Leave a brief message for my client Brad. Don’t want his wife over-hearing anything confidential. 9:00 a.m. First client, Mark. Dealing with depression. Lost his job of 15 years. Body language anxious. Admits he is contemplating shooting his ex-boss. 10:00 a.m. Christine has a long-running drug and alcohol problem. Making great progress. Offers to clean my house in return for counseling sessions. 11:00 a.m. Mary gave me a big hug, again. She wants me to testify at her son’s child custody hearing. Let’s me know husband is going to subpoena her records. She invites me to dinner. 12:00 Grab lunch at desk. Check email. Sign up for CE class on crisis management. Read an article on lawsuits filed over ‘client confidentiality.’ It is important to know when to protect a client’s privacy and when it’s required by law to report certain behavior. Just as important as having coverage through HPSO! Now with d new expande benefits! Make sure your story has a happy ending. Endorsed by: Counselor’s Professional Liability Insurance 800.982.9491 • www.hpso.com/con9 This program is underwritten by American Casualty Company of Reading, Pennsylvania, a CNA-affiliated underwriting company, and is offered through the Healthcare Providers Service Organization Purchasing Group. Coverages, rates and limits may differ or may not be available in all states. All products and services are subject to change without notice. This material is for illustrative purposes only and is not a contract. It is intended to provide a general overview of the products and services offered. Only the policy can provide the actual terms, coverages, amounts, conditions and exclusions. CNA is a registered trademark of CNA Financial Corporation. Health Providers Service Organization is a registered trademark of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc., in CA (License #0795465), MN and OK, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency, Inc., and in NY, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency. ©2010 Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. 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