Exploring How Therapist Trainees’ Mentalization, Attachment Styles, And The Working Alliance Impact Treatment Outcomes In Psychotherapy,
2026
Western Michigan University
Exploring How Therapist Trainees’ Mentalization, Attachment Styles, And The Working Alliance Impact Treatment Outcomes In Psychotherapy, Hanali Gilbert
Dissertations
A burgeoning area of research within the past 30 years has sought to identify which specific therapist factors contribute to differential treatment outcomes (Barkham et al., 2017). The purpose of the current naturalistic study was to explore how two personal characteristics of therapist trainees, mentalization capacity and attachment styles, impact early treatment outcomes at two Midwestern psychology training clinics. This study also examined whether therapist mentalization and the working alliance interacted to influence client outcomes. Therapists completed the Mentalization Scale (MentS; Dimitrijević et al., 2018) and the Experiences in Close Relationships scale (ECR; Brennan et al., 1998), while the Working …
The Fivestar Method: An Interchangeable Intervention For Ptsd Nightmares And Waking Traumatic Events,
2026
Atlantic University
The Fivestar Method: An Interchangeable Intervention For Ptsd Nightmares And Waking Traumatic Events, Gregory Sparrow, Valerie Leija, Mark Thurston
Human Development and School Services Faculty Publications
There is a variety of trauma resolution methods that focus on reducing the emotional impact of nightmares and/or waking traumatic memories. The revision of nightmares through imagery rescripting represents one of the effective evidence-based methods. In contrast, traditional dream analysis represents an unlikely intervention for trauma resolution, given cultural assumptions regarding the presumed fixed or predetermined nature of dreams. The co-creative dream paradigm, in contrast, introduces the notion that the dream ego can intervene to shift the dream’s unfoldment toward resolution, both retroactively by reliving the original dream in a new way, and prospectively by preparing for new responses in …
Racism, Coping, And In-Race Heterosexism Among Asian American Sexually Expansive People: A Moderated Moderation Analysis,
2026
University of Massachusetts Boston
Racism, Coping, And In-Race Heterosexism Among Asian American Sexually Expansive People: A Moderated Moderation Analysis, Miah Theresse A. Sabas
Graduate Masters Theses
Asian American sexually expansive people (AA SEP) are at elevated risk of psychological distress at the intersection of racism and heterosexism (Takeda et al., 2021). Less is known about how AA SEP cope with intersectional oppression, including experiences of in-race heterosexism. With a sample of 105 AA SEP, correlations indicated a positive link between psychological distress (PD; DASS-21, Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995) and racism-related stress (RRS; Brief PEDQ-CV, Brondolo et al., 2005), but not in-race heterosexism (Perceived Racism in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Communities Scale, Sarno et al., 2015). Moderation analyses indicated only active coping buffered the relation between RRS …
Exploring The Simultaneous Processes Of Academic Job Search And Dissertation For Culturally Diverse Doctoral Candidates In Counselor Education Programs,
2026
Florida International University
Exploring The Simultaneous Processes Of Academic Job Search And Dissertation For Culturally Diverse Doctoral Candidates In Counselor Education Programs, Galaxina G. Wright, Jasmine Griffith, Jasmine Garrison, Inga Antrobus
Journal of Graduate Education Research
Doctoral candidates face several challenges as they complete their academic journeys, particularly as it relates to the unique balance of applying for faculty positions while completing their dissertations. Though both processes have been explored separately within some educational fields, minimal research exists within the field of counselor education (CE) examining simultaneous experiences, particularly those from historically marginalized populations. Guided by the Career Self-Management (CSM) framework and an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA), we explored the perspectives of 11 CE candidates from historically marginalized backgrounds engaged in both processes. We identified five main themes and four subthemes that participants experienced. We discuss …
Hope And Resilience For Families Affected By Alcoholism Within The Deaf And Hard Of Hearing (Dhh) Community,
2026
Liberty University
Hope And Resilience For Families Affected By Alcoholism Within The Deaf And Hard Of Hearing (Dhh) Community, Jessica Ellen Kuehne
Faculty Publications and Presentations
This presentation will cover research-based information about family alcoholism, children of alcoholics (COA), and adult children of alcoholics (ACOA) and explore how it impacts the Deaf community. Cultural considerations regarding alcohol use will be included in the presentation. The purpose of the workshop is to engage participants in increasing their knowledge and understanding of working with the unique group. It is important to note that the lack of studies and resources focusing on family alcoholism which impacts a group of COAs and ACOAs in the Deaf community. The presentation will begin with a brief overview of how family alcoholism impacts …
Caring For The Carers: Exploring The Mental Wellbeing Of Informal Palliative Caregivers Of Cancer Patients In Kenya,
2026
University of Nairobi, Kenya
Caring For The Carers: Exploring The Mental Wellbeing Of Informal Palliative Caregivers Of Cancer Patients In Kenya, James Kariuki, Rose Njiraini
Journal of Global Awareness
Cancer cases have been on the increase globally, and this has led to economic burden on the affected households. One way of reducing the cost of care is through home-based care by informal palliative caregivers who include family members, friends, and other people assigned by the family members to take care of the patient. The objectives of this study were to assess the status of the mental wellbeing of palliative caregivers of cancer patients; to examine the relationship between the ability of the patient to cope with cancer diagnosis and the mental wellbeing of the caregiver; and to investigate the …
Intersectionality And Infertility: A Framework For Culturally Responsive Mental Health Counseling,
2026
St. John's University
Intersectionality And Infertility: A Framework For Culturally Responsive Mental Health Counseling, Nouna Jalilzadeh
Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education
Infertility affects approximately 11% of women of reproductive age in the United States, with 41–46% developing symptoms consistent with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a prevalence substantially higher than in the general population. Because existing research and clinical literature predominantly focus on female infertility experiences, this article centers women while acknowledging that infertility profoundly impacts individuals across all gender identities. Despite this, mental health counselors frequently lack training in culturally responsive reproductive mental health care, leaving marginalized clients, including racial and ethnic minorities, low-income individuals, immigrants, LGBTQ+ people, and rural residents without adequate support. This theoretical article applies intersectionality theory to …
Considering Consent: What We Can Learn From Bdsm,
2026
University of Georgia
Considering Consent: What We Can Learn From Bdsm, Jennie Pless, Kate A. Morrissey Stahl, Madison Reeves
Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education
Consent is a pivotal, defining feature of BDSM. As such, much can be learned by examining conceptualizations of consent among those who engage in BDSM. Using a mixed methods approach, this study explores how 92 BDSM practitioners conceptualize and practice consent. Participants defined consent as an ongoing, enthusiastic, and voluntary agreement. We examine how BDSM practitioners ensure consent, educate others about consent, and handle consent violations. Findings include strategies for consent education and sexual assault prevention. This study highlights the importance of greater awareness and understanding of BDSM and consent.
Transitions From Traditional Gender And Sexuality Roles To Non-Conforming Identities Through Performance Art: A Multiple Case Study,
2026
University of the Cumberlands
Transitions From Traditional Gender And Sexuality Roles To Non-Conforming Identities Through Performance Art: A Multiple Case Study, Adrianne Trogden, Dorin Captari-Scirri
Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education
This qualitative multiple case study examined how two individuals from religiously conservative households navigated transitions from traditional gender and sexuality roles to non-conforming and queer identities through performance art. Using case study methodology, five interconnected themes emerged: Performing Gender - pressure to "act masculine," Performing Sexuality – pressure to "act straight," Performing Art - freedom of expression of gender and sexuality on stage, Shame and fear transformed when accepted sexuality, and Finding one's voice and identity - gender and sexuality. Stage performance art served as an underlying foundation, providing a transformative space for safely exploring previously constrained gender and …
Sex And Stigma: The Cisgender Woman’S Experience,
2026
University of South Carolina - Columbia
Sex And Stigma: The Cisgender Woman’S Experience, Regin Dean, Kara Schneider, Lucas M. Perez, Tae Joon Kim, Ryan G. Carlson
Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education
This study examines how sexual stigma and societal expectations affect the self-esteem of college-aged women within the context of casual sex. Using a qualitative, thematic design, participants were recruited through purposive sampling and interviewed using semi-structured protocols. Thematic analysis revealed three overarching domains: Identity & Self-perception (empowerment, femininity and body image, fluidity), Social Factors (familial and cultural expectations, shame and comparison, formative relationships), and Developmental Influences (social media, scrutiny, knowledge gaps). Findings demonstrate how stigma is internalized and reinforced through interpersonal and media influences, underscoring the need for counseling practices that address both individual wellness and systemic advocacy.
Purity Culture And Sexual Shame,
2026
Independent Scholar
Purity Culture And Sexual Shame, Dr. Amanda Gray, Dr. Kat R. Klement
Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness: Research, Practice, and Education
We investigated the relationship between Christian purity culture (PC) exposure/endorsement and sexual shame in 1,273 participants. Purity culture (PC) is a belief system predicated on sexual abstinence until heterosexual marriage and traditional gender roles. Correlational data showed that PC exposure was associated with higher sexual shame, particularly among women, and only among those who no longer endorsed PC. However, we did not find a causal relationship between PC exposure and sexual shame. Based on these findings, we provide recommendations for countering sex-negative messages during adolescence to improve healthy sexual development and better health and relationship outcomes.
The Narratives Of Where Black Men On The South Side Of Chicago Found Emotional Connection While Growing Up,
2026
Liberty University
The Narratives Of Where Black Men On The South Side Of Chicago Found Emotional Connection While Growing Up, Yakima Diemer
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
The purpose of this narrative inquiry study was to explore and understand the lived experiences of Black men from the South Side of Chicago. This study explored, through storytelling, the life experiences of Black men from the South Side of Chicago regarding their emotional connectedness with their primary caregivers in addition to who they turned to, and what they turned to in order to feel a sense of support and connection if and when there were none. Participants for this study included Black men who were over the age of 25 and reported being raised on the South Side of …
A Phenomenology Study: Exploring The Lived Experiences Of Latino Women In The South Of California With Symptoms Of Depression And The Influence Of Faith And Religion In Their Recovery,
2026
Liberty University
A Phenomenology Study: Exploring The Lived Experiences Of Latino Women In The South Of California With Symptoms Of Depression And The Influence Of Faith And Religion In Their Recovery, Ivette G. Perez-Paquien
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
This is a qualitative study of a phenomenological nature that explores the phenomenon and experiences of Latina women with depressive symptoms residing in Southern California, as well as the influence of faith and religion on their recovery. The investigation of this phenomenon was conducted using the theoretical model of descriptive research proposed by Husserl, along with the data analysis technique for descriptive phenomenological research based on the approach designed by Richard Krueger. The research question posed to guide this study was: What are the experiences described by Latina women suffering from symptoms of depression regarding faith, religion, and their recovery …
Unveiling The Journey: A Phenomenological Study On The Lived Experiences Of Caregivers Raising An Adolescent With Diabetes,
2026
Liberty University
Unveiling The Journey: A Phenomenological Study On The Lived Experiences Of Caregivers Raising An Adolescent With Diabetes, Lakeisha L. Doman
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe caregivers’ experiences raising a middle to late adolescent (ages 14 – 19) with diabetes in Virginia. The study focused on how caregivers perceive stress and develop coping skills while navigating the transition to independence. Guided by Lazarus and Folkman’s Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, this study examined how caregivers appraised stress, evaluated available resources, and sustained engagement in their role. Ten primary caregivers in Virginia were recruited using purposeful sampling. Semi-structured interviews guided data collection. Data was analyzed using Moustakas’ phenomenological approach. Findings indicated that caregiving during adolescence is a …
A Qualitative Case Study Of Equine Assisted Services At Healing Strides Facility,
2026
Liberty University
A Qualitative Case Study Of Equine Assisted Services At Healing Strides Facility, Erica Lynn Gray
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
The purpose of this qualitative case study is to portray how a well-run facility conducting equine assisted services works from an intra-organizational perspective. It is a bounded qualitative case study that focuses on the equine assisted services provided, the program and services designed and the rationale for choosing those programs, how services are operationalized and facilitated by practitioners, how equine welfare is considered, and the experiences and perspectives of those participating in the organization, development, or facilitation of equine assisted services at Healing Strides. This study uses Robert K. Yin’s theory driven methodological approach to qualitative case studies that focuses …
Publishing With Purpose: Exploring Publication Trends Among Counselor Education In Cacrep-Accredited Programs,
2026
Liberty University
Publishing With Purpose: Exploring Publication Trends Among Counselor Education In Cacrep-Accredited Programs, Janita Whitney Daggy
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Scholarly publication is a cornerstone of faculty evaluation, professional identity, and knowledge development in counselor education. Despite calls for empirical investigation into publication trends, limited research has examined the scope, distribution, and impact of counselor educator scholarship across Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This quantitative, cross-sectional bibliometric study examined publication trends, thematic alignment, and citation patterns among 222 counselor educators across 25 CACREP-accredited doctoral programs from 2000 to 2026. Using GS profiles as the primary data source, bibliographic records from 4,876 peer-reviewed publications across 2,132 journals were extracted and analyzed using the Bibliometrix package, igraph, …
A Quantitative Study On Loneliness: Exploring The Interaction Effects Of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Maladaptive Beliefs, Adult Attachment, And God Attachment,
2026
Liberty University
A Quantitative Study On Loneliness: Exploring The Interaction Effects Of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Maladaptive Beliefs, Adult Attachment, And God Attachment, Breanna Mcneal
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
The purpose of this quantitative study is to explore a moderated mediation analysis of the relationship between child adversity and loneliness when maladaptive beliefs are included as a mediator, along with adult attachment and God attachment as separate moderators with two subcategories (anxiety and avoidance). The results are based on 428 adult survey responses in which the key findings indicate that there is an initial direct effect between child adversity and loneliness, and that maladaptive beliefs mediate the relationship between child adversity and loneliness. Each of the moderated mediation models are supported only from the maladaptive beliefs to loneliness path …
The Silent War Within: A Phenomenological Exploration Of Male Veterans' Lived Experiences Following Military Sexual Trauma In Southwestern Louisiana,
2026
Liberty University
The Silent War Within: A Phenomenological Exploration Of Male Veterans' Lived Experiences Following Military Sexual Trauma In Southwestern Louisiana, Belinda K. Richard
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Military sexual trauma (MST) is an important and often overlooked issue affecting male veterans. Research indicates that men encounter MST at notable rates and confront distinct challenges in accessing care. Although the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides specialized MST services, there remains a significant gap in the literature regarding men's underutilization of these resources, particularly given their disproportionate presence in the VA's traditionally male-dominated healthcare system. The purpose of this phenomenological study is to understand the lived experience of men currently living in Southwestern Louisiana who have experienced military sexual trauma while on active duty. The theories guiding this …
The Impact Of Trauma On Emotional Well-Being And Professional Functioning In Registered Play Therapists,
2026
Liberty University
The Impact Of Trauma On Emotional Well-Being And Professional Functioning In Registered Play Therapists, Jami Stobaugh
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Play therapists often work with children who have experienced trauma, which can cause emotional strain, while offering opportunities for professional growth. Understanding how therapists’ personal trauma histories affect their well-being is crucial for supporting clinician resilience. This study examined the relationships among trauma exposure, trauma responses, post-traumatic growth (PTG), and professional quality of life among registered play therapists (RPTs) and RPT Supervisors (RPT-S). It also explored whether vicarious trauma (VT), supervisory working alliance, and counselor self-efficacy influenced these relationships. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from a national sample of play therapists via an online questionnaire that measured …
From Rituals To Resilience: Individuals’ Lived Experience Of Self-Reflective Relationship Therapy (Srrt),
2026
Liberty University
From Rituals To Resilience: Individuals’ Lived Experience Of Self-Reflective Relationship Therapy (Srrt), Ehsan Adib Shabahang
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
This qualitative Husserlian descriptive phenomenological study addressed a gap in first-person accounts of brief self-guided preventive relationship interventions. One such intervention, Self-Reflective Relationship Therapy (SRRT), is a 6-week self-guided workbook combining structured reflection with brief connection practices. The purpose of the study was to describe individuals' first-person lived experiences 6 to 18 months after completing SRRT. Six participants completed asynchronous written reflections, and the data were analyzed using Husserlian descriptive phenomenology with Colaizzi's seven-step method. Participants described SRRT as a workable path toward reconnection after periods of emotional distance or strain. Carryover centered less on continued adherence to the workbook …
