Certified Rehabilitation Counselors’ Self-Efficacy to Work With Individuals Engaged in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Abstract

Individuals with disabilities are at elevated risk for engaging in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). As the prevalence of NSSI increases, it is likely that in their professional tenure, certified rehabilitation counselors (CRCs) will interact with clients who have engaged in NSSI. The purpose of this study was to examine factors associated with CRCs’ self-efficacy for working with clients engaging in NSSI. CRCs practicing in the United States were recruited to participate in an online survey study (N = 91). Hierarchical regression analysis was used to analyze factors associated with CRCs’ self-efficacy to work with clients with NSSI. Results indicated that training (β = .31) and stigma (helping attitude; β =.39) were significant predictors of CRCs’ self-efficacy for working with clients experiencing NSSI, with the total model explaining 33% of the variance in self-efficacy. CRCs who received NSSI training in the past reported more positive attitudes and perceived themselves as more capable to work with clients who engaged in NSSI. This study is among the few to examine specific factors impacting CRCs’ self-efficacy in working with NSSI. Implications for practice and research will be discussed.