The Use of Counselor Profanity in Counseling

In this article the author reviews some of the literature on counselor profanity and provides guidelines for its use in counseling.     

The Use of Dream Discussions in Counseling

Dream discussions in counseling can aid in setting up and maintaining therapeutic contact with clients. The authors review the historical underpinnings of dreams and summarize several dream theories.     

The Use of Preliminary Information in Vocational Counseling

One hundred twenty-one clients seeking vocational counseling were assigned to three experimental groups representing audio, visual, and audiovisual methods of information presentation, or to a control group. After exposure to information relevant to their concerns, they were given an opportunity to return for a regular appointment. The audio and visual methods differed significantly in terms of percent of those who returned (audio = 69 percent, visual = 39 percent). Returnees in the visual group averaged fewer counseling sessions although the differences were not statistically significant. In general, returnees had indicated a somewhat greater number of problem areas and more frequently were sophomores and seniors. Results suggest that tape recordings (audio method) tend to induce clients to return for further counseling more readily than does the same information in mimeographed form (visual method). The likelihood of a client returning is seen as a function of the type and urgency of the problem as well as the preliminary information he receives.     

Assessment of the Use and Feasibility of Video to Supplement the Genetic Counseling Process: A Cancer Genetic Counseling Perspective

Cancer genetic counselors use a variety of teaching modalities for patient education. This survey of cancer genetic counselors assessed their use of educational videos and their recommendations for content of future videos. Thirty percent of respondents use videos for patient education. Cited benefits included reinforcement of information for clients and increased counselor efficiency. Of the 70% who do not use videos, predominant barriers included the perceived lack of an appropriate video, lack of space and/or equipment, and concern that videos are impersonal. Most respondents desired a video that is representative of the genetic counseling session, but emphasized the importance of using broad information. Content considered critical included the pros and cons of genetic testing, associated psychosocial implications, and genetic discrimination. The results of this exploratory study provide data relevant for the development of a cancer genetics video for patient education, and suggestions are made based on aspects of information processing and communication theories.     

Projective Techniques in the Counseling Process

Projective techniques have a lengthy and vital history in personality assessment, but they have evoked a minimal degree of interest on the part of counselors. Psychometric limitations, lack of training opportunities, and the obscure qualities of the instruments have restricted their use among practitioners. The author proposes a method to stimulate the use of projectives as an integral part of the counseling process and provides justification for the expanded use of the technique as a counseling tool.     

Using Hope in the Counseling Process

This article presents a framework for the development of hope in the counseling relationship. Although hope has often been viewed as an impediment to growth, the authors believe that realistic hope is an effective tool in a counseling relationship. The authors also examine the role of the counselor in the formulation of hope.     

中国美学中美的动态化过程：诗画交融的创造性和谐

虽然美只是个单称概念,但我们对美的体验大多时候却是错综复杂的.我们体验到的美就像是寓多于一的协调整体.即使事物本身并不存在一种和谐而统一的关系,为了称之为美,我们也必须将其视为这样的一个和谐统一体.     

The Nearing Death Process and Pastoral Counseling

Philosophic concepts of death are pervasive throughout all societies as shared values, differing in particulars, but similar in general. So, too, is the prospect of a death a consideration for every person, an eventual reality brought most forcefully to mind as it nears. This article explores various mindsets those who provide pastoral counseling will encounter among clients and suggest effective approaches to providing the mental and spiritual solace sought. Further, consideration is given to the psychological and spiritual mein of the pastoral counselor, and how this can affect both client and counselor.     

Characteristics of Therapist Self-Disclosure in the Counseling Process

A survey was sent to practicing therapists to investigate their uses of self-disclosure in counseling and psychotherapy. A total of 46% returned surveys, and most indicated that they used at least some self-disclosure in their work with clients. Overall, respondents reported disclosing about professional qualifications and experience most often and indicated that they disclosed mainly to increase similarity between themselves and clients.     

Creative Process Groups

Many nonverbal and artistic modes of expression have been used to communicate in counseling and education. This article investigates one mode of expression-the slide/tape show-as implemented in a group format in a college setting. The Creative Process Group, using the task of creating a slide/tape show, has group members (1) explore a relevant issue using an alternate means of expression, (2) experience a group creative process, and (3) learn about group dynamics and how individuals, including themselves, function in groups.