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Abstract

This study examined the professional identity of counseling psychologists in Australia. Subjects were 114 members of the Board of Counselling Psychologists within the Australian Psychological Society who responded to a survey questionnaire that tapped demographic and professional activity information. Respondents rated the importance of activities to their present and ideal positions as counseling psychologists. Factor analysis of ratings showed a structure of activities of which consultation and education, goal-directed counseling, depth psychotherapy, and program development and evaluation were most important. Research and assessment activities were seen as least important. Differences in importance ratings were found as a function of respondent employment setting. Results show similarities to earlier studies and suggest that the professional identity of counseling psychologists based on activities extends across national boundaries.

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In Search of a Professional Identity

Abstract

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