Introduction

This accessible and engaging text introduces the reader to the history and development of counselling psychology before outlining its values, ways of working (therapeutically and when engaging with research), and other key areas.

It promotes the diverse ways that counselling psychologists engage with individuals and the wider communities in which they work and serve, and in doing so, emphasises the core philosophical thinking that commonly underpins the work of counselling psychologists in therapy, research, education, or other leadership roles.

Theoretical Foundations and Ethical Principles

Through practical examples and reflexive questions, this book highlights the roots of the discipline in value-based ethics and humanistic thinking, then explores the important psychological theories informing counselling psychology practice.

These include the core therapeutic theories underpinning psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, and humanistic therapies, and also contributions from intersectionality, social justice, and ecological systems approaches.

Research and Society

Following a section on research methodology, this book goes on to look at the impact of counselling psychology across society and the avenues for further development.

Target Audience

It is core reading for students in counselling psychology as well as those training in therapeutic disciplines such as counselling or psychotherapy.