International Counseling Traits: Identifying Counseling Traits Ranked most Important by International Counseling Professionals through Q-Sort Analysis

Abstract

Research has shown an increase in the study and discussion of international counseling throughout the past decade in the mental health domain. The counseling profession continues to take steps to address the lack of access to and the quality of counseling support throughout the world. A Q-sort methodology was utilized in order to capture an understanding of what might be identified as the most important traits for counselors to consider when counseling in international settings. A uniquely constructed Q-sort model developed from a careful review of the literature resulted in 35 items that were evaluated by 43 participants in two phases of analysis. The results from the Q-sort led to fuller consideration of the 12 counseling traits ranked highest. Three core themes that emerged from the data included: valuing people, personal character, and multicultural intentionality. Discussion about the highest ranked traits and core themes provides consideration of research implications and future studies in international counseling as a whole.

International Counseling Values: Recognizing Valued Approaches Identified by International Counseling Professionals Through Qualitative Inquiry

“…The research shows a strong focus on person-centered approaches that create safe spaces for people in the counseling room. This aligns with many comments from the literature about how counselor traits and characteristics are far more important than the skills they present (Bojuwoye, 2001 ; Perron et al, 2016 ; Srichannil & Prior, 2014 ). Counselors have a myriad of opportunities to creatively adapt counseling concepts and practices to the appropriate context in which they are offering services.…”

The Four Cs of Parenting

“…Using these concepts, counseling professionals can support the intentional application of supportive parenting principles in everyday life. Counselors can further enhance their support for parents across cultures by adopting necessary counseling traits that have shown value across cultures (Perron, Tollerud, & Fischer, 2016), thus implementing the four Cs in culturally relevant and meaningful ways.…”