This volume provides a clear and readable history of the development of psychological thought in the field of counseling psychology. The author traces the origins of counseling psychology in the Guidance Movement and the influence of humanitarian concerns from the Progressive Era. He describes professionalization of the field as well as the long search for professional identity and the influence of the burgeoning practice of psychotherapy.

The seminal ideas of the four great traditions that have shaped the field are described: the trait and factor tradition, the developmental tradition, the humanistic tradition, and the behavioral tradition. Managed Care, diversity, and gender issues and their impact on the profession today are addressed making this volume an ideal text and overview of the field for students as well as psychologists intending to work as counselors.