A Phenomenological Investigation: Microaggressions and Counselors-in-Training

Counselor educators are charged with the responsibility of assisting counselors–in–training to gain knowledge about injustice and inequity in society. Individuals experience oppression and privilege in different ways depending on their identities of marginalized or majority status. This study examined microaggressions using written and photographic journals from 24 counselors–in–training through the lens of phenomenology. Participants identified four overarching themes in describing their experiences with microaggressions: denial, dismay, awareness, and action. Implications for training and future research are discussed.