Counseling Commons^™

"My Dog Is In Teletherapy With Me": The Impact Of A Pet Dog On Their Owner's Teletherapy Session, Carlette Anne Layne

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The connection between humans and animals has led to practices such as animal-assisted therapy, equine therapy, service animals, and pet ownership. Strong bonds and attachments can form between pet owners and their pets. It is no wonder that owning a pet is commonplace in the United States. Many pet owners identify their pet as a member of their family. In addition to companionship, research has indicated that pet ownership can have health benefits, reduce stress, increase empathy, and facilitate openness. In a therapeutic setting, the presence of a pet may comfort its owner simply by being near them. The ease …

Forgiveness As A Moderator Of The Relationship Between Religiosity And Intimate Partner Violence, Leroy Sapp

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This quantitative study uses an online survey method to examine forgiveness in a woman with patriarchal religious beliefs (PRB) who has experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) and the predictive role of forgiveness in moderating the relationships between IPV and religiosity and IPV and PRB. The participants received scores on PRB, which were divided into two groups: adherence and nonadherence. The findings concluded no statistically significant difference between the means of the adherence group and nonadherence group’s mean forgiveness levels. The study found that forgiveness moderated the positive relationship between religiosity and IPV violence approval, and forgiveness negatively affected said relationship. …

A Clinical N Of 1 Time Series On The Efficacy Of Internal Family Systems And Christian Inner Healing Prayer With Adult Survivors Of Childhood Trauma, Kharma K. Parker

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a non-pathologizing psychospiritual therapeutic model in which “all parts are welcome.” Christian Inner Healing Prayer (CIHP) is an intervention that invites an authentic experience with the Divine to address inner wounds. Both methods are touted as beneficial to clients with trauma histories. However, IFS is an evidenced based treatment while only preliminary research on CIHP has been done. Several efforts to create a Christian cultural accommodation of IFS have been authored; two implicitly reference CIHP. None have been researched. This study is an N of 1 time series study of the efficacy of IFS with …

Vicarious Trauma: A Phenomenological Qualitative Study Of School Counselors And Self-Care, Chernika E'Unece Leon

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand school counselors’ lived experiences of vicarious trauma and explore self-care strategies. School counselors are often exposed to vicarious trauma while working with children who encounter trauma. The theories used to guide this study were constructivist self-development theory and the theory of self-care. These theories explained the nature of understanding the psychological, interpersonal, and transpersonal influence of trauma work on counselors. There were two research questions that guided this study: (a) How do school counselors describe their experience of vicarious trauma? (b) What coping strategies do school counselors implement to cope with …

The Mental Health Of Inmates: An Approach To Jail Reform, Courtney Isaac Anderson

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The aim in this phenomenological study was to understand the impact the jail environment, policies, and procedures have on incarcerated individuals. Mental health problems are common among individuals in jail. Furthermore, the jail environment, harsh policies, and isolation from the public are believed to have a negative impact on inmate mental health. Elevated percentages of inmates experiencing psychiatric difficulties during their incarceration have been supported by research. It is suggested that the elevated percentages of psychiatric demands promote the lack of mental health assistance inside jails. A methodical analysis of literature was conducted to identify the circumstances of the jail …

Using The Modified Delphi Method To Establish Consensus For Gambling Treatment Core Competencies, Greta Coe

International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking

Abstract:

Core competencies define the knowledge and skills believed to be necessary to practice within specific professional fields effectively and serve as benchmarks to guide professional preparation, supervision, and evaluation. In this presentation, we will share the results of a modified Delphi study when we asked the question, ‘‘What are the core competencies that problem gambling counsellors must master to be considered professionally prepared?’’ and relied on the collective wisdom of experts in the field to find an answer. Our study used 52 problem gambling treatment experts to reach consensus on gambling treatment core competencies. An expert was defined as …

Using Expressive Arts Therapy To Develop Coping Mechanisms To Manage Substance Use, Zayna Mcdonald

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

This paper examines past and current usages of expressive arts therapy in developing coping mechanisms for substance use recovery and explores possibilities for further integration in the adolescent and young adult population around the world. Abundant information is available on the effects of drugs and other substances on mental health, but more research is needed on how the integration of expressive arts therapy can enhance substance abuse programs for these populations. According to the CDC, elevated adverse effects on mental health occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in the US with young adults reporting increased substance use (Czeisler et al., 2020). …

Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Program Evaluation Of One Substance Abuse Treatment Center, Erin Poore

MUSC Theses and Dissertations

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has the possibility of enhancing health outcomes for those living with substance abuse disorders. Previous research primarily focused on individuals with a diagnosis of dementia and other cognitive related disorders. Prior research that did look at individuals with substance abuse focused on the use of horses rather than canines and were limited to small sample sizes. We used an electronic medical record system to identify eligible patients to volunteer to participate in two weeks of animal-assisted therapy at one substance abuse treatment center in southeastern United States. Volunteers completed pre and post survey questions measuring overall satisfaction …

Growing In Grief: A Meaning-Making Expressive Arts Therapy Method Developed For Bereaved Youth, Jessica Wilson

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

Approximately 5.3 million youth in the United States have experienced the death of a sibling or parent. They face challenges such as an increased risk of depression, anxiety, substance use, and other detrimental effects on adjustment. A small subset of this population experiences significant emotional and behavioral difficulties, characterized by an inability to function in major life roles, a preoccupation with the loss, and separation distress. Modern grief literature describes meaning-making as an adaptive coping process contributing to a sense of renewed hope and self-efficacy and a reduction in distressing grief symptomology. Expressive arts therapy is an effective way to …

The Benefits Of Art Therapy On Stress And Anxiety Of Oncology Patients During Treatment, Helen Shiepe

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

Within the last ten years research on art therapy and its positive impact on oncology patients’ stress and anxiety during treatment has been minimal. Oncology patients whether they are children or adults when diagnosed experience similar reactions due to their diagnosis, treatment, and in some cases end of life care. The current question is whether or not art therapy does have a positive impact on decreasing the stress and anxiety with oncology patients while undergoing treatment. Deane, Fitch & Carmen (2000), discussed art therapy as a healing art that is “intended to integrate physical, emotional, and spiritual care by facilitating …

Facilitating Attachment Through Therapeutic Rapport And Expressive Arts Therapy With Children Experiencing Complex Trauma: A Literature Review, Johanna Voeller

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

The aim of this capstone is to review the connection between therapeutic alliance and attachment with traumatized children supported by expressive arts in therapy and to the impact on therapeutic outcome. Within the therapeutic encounter is a potent opportunity to develop healthy attachment patterns that bridge into the client’s other relationships in their life. Complex trauma affects children physically and psychologically leaving lifelong consequences of interpersonal challenges. The impetus for study of this topic was curiosity centered on the impact of the therapeutic alliance as it relates to attachment, and therapeutic outcomes. Throughout the course of this literature review, the …

Exploring Core Concepts And Uses Of Makeup In Expressive Arts Therapy And Mental Health: A Critical Review Of The Literature, Rhys Triolo-Rodriguez

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

According to Merriam Webster (2022) the definitions for Makeup are as follows; “Cosmetics (such as lipstick, mascara, and eye shadow) used to color and beautify the face”, “A cosmetic applied to other parts of the body”, and “Materials (such as wigs and cosmetics) used in making up or in special costuming (as for a play).” Many of the articles reviewed also discuss the importance of skin care and the rituals that one goes through when applying or removing facial products. For this research, a combination of all definitions above will be most beneficial. However one may define makeup, within the …

Sandtray Therapy Through The Lens Of The Expressive Therapies Continuum: Helping Children Who Experienced Trauma Tap Into Their Creative Potential, Mollie Lesnever

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

This study explores the use of Sandtray therapy with children in middle childhood who have experienced trauma. Sandtray therapy allows children to create a world of their own with sand and symbolic figures. It supports children’s need for autonomy and provides a way to engage in healing through playful and non-verbal means. Based on the intermodal nature of Sandtray therapy, it was presumed that the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) could be used alongside the intervention as an assessment tool to better understand how development impacts artmaking. Based on the developmental needs of this population, a method including play and art-making …

Dance/Movement Therapy Used As An Intervention To Heal Racial Trauma Within The Black Community: A Literature Review, Jennifer Noboise

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

The history of dance within the black community has served an important role while living through a racist and discriminatory society. Dance has been used to express anger, grief, and joy during hardships and moments of rejoicing from the black experience. African American people have endured years of trauma and abuse from oppressive systems. Research has been conducted to demonstrate that dance/movement therapy has been effective in treating those who have experienced a form of trauma since the trauma is stored in the body. Examining trauma symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and substance use, the research found these symptoms diminished …

A Literature Review Exploring The Effectiveness Of Dance/Movement Therapy As A Treatment Modality For Adults With Dual-Diagnosis In Recovery, Helen Turnbull

Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses

Abstract

The following literature review is an investigation of the current state of the literature regarding the use of dance/movement therapy as a treatment modality for adults with dual diagnosis in recovery. The theories explored in this paper present the primary and conventional modes that are currently being used to treat substance use and comorbid mental health disorders, such as the 12-Step program model of Alcoholics Anonymous, as well as introducing alternative methods of treatment, which include the use of dance/movement therapy, body-oriented psychotherapy, and the somatic work of the Alexander Technique, which offer a more holistic approach to healing …

Therapeutic Treatments For Adolescents With Social Anxiety Disorder: A Group Manual, Lauren Lauermann

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Abstract

Anxiety is something that affects millions of people worldwide. This literature review’s objective is to assess social anxiety disorder among sophomore students. Social anxiety disorder varies from individual to individual, therefore, it is important to place emphasis on a specific age group. Three evidence-based treatment options will be utilized throughout the literature review including school-based skills training programs, strategies to promote positive psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapies. Recognizing how social anxiety affects the body, utilizing positive self-talk strategies, and learning stress reduction skills are all essential to encouraging stronger communication skills and overall academic achievement. These are a few …

The Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences And Risky Health Behaviors: Avenues For Prevention In New Mexico, Arianna Trott

Individual, Family, and Community Education ETDs

This study was designed to assess if adverse childhood experiences (ACES) predict risky health behaviors in New Mexico. The purpose was to determine if any factors support improved outcomes for people who have experienced ACES in New Mexico. Lastly, the study aimed to identify if urban-rural status impacted outcomes of risky health behaviors related to ACES. This study used data from the 2019 New Mexico Community Survey across twelve counties (N = 853). Multiple logistic regression and hierarchical linear modeling were used to analyze the data. The findings concluded ACES could predict risky health behaviors. Overall, there was a gradated …

A Method For Collective Healing: The Utility Of Talking Circles, Samuel Montano, Victoria Williams, Jia Jian Tin

Journal of Multicultural Affairs

This paper highlights the importance of Justice and Healing Talking Circles (JAHTC) in higher education settings, as well as other institutions to provide a safe place for individuals and groups to have collective healing experiences. This paper outlines the current sociopolitical climate that poses a threat to social equity, social justice, and communal healing, while also providing a method and rationale for the implementation of JAHTC.

Self-Compassion For Counselors-In-Training, Sydney Iwanski

Educational Specialist, 2020-current

This paper examines the concept of self-compassion and how counselors-in-training (CITs) can develop and refine their self-compassion practice to improve their experience during the counseling practicum semester of their graduate studies. First, this paper will discuss the definitions of self-compassion, the benefits of self-compassion, and things to be aware of in beginning self-compassion work. Then, the paper will discuss the needs of beginning counselors with special attention to the practicum semester. Finally, this paper will provide suggestions for the specific ways self-compassion can help CITs progress in their practice and studies with special attention to supervision, attending to clients in …

Embracing Hope: A Counseling Group For Women Undergoing Infertility Treatment, Emily Clayton

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This group manual was created for female identifying adults ages 18 years and older who are undergoing infertility treatment. Infertility is oftentimes accompanied by a complexity of psychological difficulties that present chronic and long term stressors for many individuals and couples (Covington & Burns, 2006; Galst, 2018; Karaca et al., 2019; Rooney & Domar, 2018). Research supports that infertility counseling is effective in treating the wide array of mental health concerns that are associated with the infertility experience (Covington & Burns, 2006; Peterson et al., 2012). This manual examines the impact that infertility can have on mental health as well …

Supporting Children Through Traumatic Loss: A Counseling Group For Children, Sara Swan

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Loss happens within an instant, while grief is lifelong. Children who experience the loss of a close relationship in a traumatic way can negatively affect their mental and physical health, and academic and behavioral functioning, and have a higher mortality rate (Burns et al., 2020; Feigelman et al., 2017). Mental health professionals need to continue to advocate for children who have experienced traumatic loss with an increase in mental health services available to them. Literature is reviewed on grief, complicated grief (CG), traumatic grief, childhood traumatic grief and traumatic death are defined, types of loss, how grief is defined in …

Mental Health Literacy Training For Elementary Educators, Anna Joyce

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Young school children struggle with mental illness at a high rate, but often do not receive treatment or referral to mental health resources (Paula et al., 2014). Because of their age, their support systems are the first line of defense toward recognizing and reporting concerning symptoms of mental illness. Educators act as one of these support systems, but research shows mental health education for teachers is lacking in comprehension and adequacy (Dix et al., 2019). This literature review and training focuses on Mental Health Literacy (MHL), which promotes positive mental health education and literacy through encouraging help-seeking, recognition of mental …

Child-Parent Psychotherapy Training For Mental Health Agencies To Address Symptoms Of Ptsd In Trauma-Exposed Children In Early Childhood, Emily Josephine Bochman

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Approaches for working with trauma-exposed populations have been critical in addressing the widespread prevalence and impact of trauma across the lifespan (Young et al., 2011). With early intervention being critical for reducing the impact of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms persisting throughout the lifespan (Buss et al., 2015), approaches for early childhood populations are essential. One such approach, Child Parent Psychotherapy, has been shown to be one of the most effective approaches for working with trauma-exposed populations under five years old (Lieberman et al., 2015). This literature review and training manual explores the current research and implementation of Child Parent Psychotherapy …

School Counselors Treating Anxiety In Public School Settings: A Group Manual, Sarah Dyann Voss

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

As anxiety becomes more prevalent in children and adolescents, the demand for mental health resources has also increased. School counselors are highly trained mental health professionals who could be one of the answers to help close the gap of the demand for mental health resources. This review aims to analyze the benefits and effectiveness of school counselors treating anxiety in public school settings by utilizing small group interventions. Most public school settings have school counselors available for students, which is an opportunity for school counselors to provide mental health services. Several research studies have been conducted on this topic, showing …

Ambiguous Loss And Grief Group Intervention For Youth In Foster Care, Courtenay Anne Miedema

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Over the past ten years in the United States, there has been an average of 414,000 youth in the foster care system each year (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2020). Youth in foster care are an at-risk population for behavioral, emotional, and relational issues that are often perceived or diagnosed as dysfunctional symptoms. Common presenting symptoms reported by this population relate to ambiguous loss experiences and can be conceptualized by ambiguous loss theory. Ambiguous loss theory has been developed through research with well-defined concepts, assessments, and treatment goals. However, there is a gap in the research on ambiguous …

Nature-Based Group Therapy For Women Living With Depression Through A Narrative Lens, Cora Anderson

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

The field of nature-based therapy treatment is rapidly expanding. With an emphasis on healing the disconnectedness of the modern world through experiencing interconnectedness with the natural world, this modality is particularly useful in treating symptoms of social isolation and hopelessness within populations living with major depressive disorder. The literature highlights emotional and biological benefits of mental health counseling in a natural setting with key therapeutic factors. Researchers highlighted these factors as the natural environment itself, the element of challenge, nature as a third-party influence on therapeutic relationship, and expansiveness and interconnectedness of the natural world (Naor & Mayseless, 2021). Within …

Trauma-Informed Training For Educators, Kristin White

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

The occurrence of childhood trauma in the school setting is an ongoing and pervasive issue. Students impacted by trauma frequently display challenging and problematic behavior, and educators lack the trauma-informed care needed to help them heal. These students often go untreated, and their trauma continues to impact them and those around them. This project aims to review the current literature on childhood trauma and how educators can better support students affected by trauma. The trauma-informed training associated with this project will offer tools, curricula, and resources that educators can implement on their campuses.

Analysis Of Self, Parker Hall

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Self-Analysis is the process of reviewing elements of an individual's own social, professional, and overall self to understand their actions. The point of this analysis is to reflect on where I have come from to gain insight in my path going forward as a counselor. Analytic tools were used to measure important aspects of my character including personality, career aptitude, and general strengths. The specific tools include the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, The STRONG Inventory, and the CliftonStrengths assessment. These formal assessments were then coupled with one-on-one interviews with individuals that played key roles in my life. The paper concludes with …

Affirmative And Integrative Counseling For Lgbtqia+ Individuals, Allison De Blois

Educational Specialist, 2020-current

Counselors are ethically obligated to serve LGBTQIA+ clientele and therefore should strive to integrate an affirmative approach to counseling. A counselor may say that they are providing affirming care, however it is important to reflect on what affirming counseling is in application. To better serve LGBTQIA+ clientele, counselors may grow their affirmative counseling approach by being knowledgeable of historical considerations, evidenced-based approaches to implement, clinical recommendations for a counselor to implement, and considerations on advocacy practices and resources.

Cultural Considerations For Working With Young Adults Who Have Experienced Childhood Trauma, Yasmine Rodriguez

Educational Specialist, 2020-current

Childhood trauma can create effects that show up throughout the lifespan. Young adulthood is the first stage of life after adolescence and involves working through more advanced developmental challenges. This offers an important reason to examine the possible outcomes early life has on young adulthood, especially for those who have experienced trauma. This knowledge can be pivotal in different professional sectors such as the mental health and educational fields. The work presented explores common childhood trauma experiences, signs of childhood trauma within both children and young adults, and cultural considerations. Recommendations such as possible interventions and training for professionals …