Counseling Psychology Information

Counseling psychology is a field of study that specializes in research and applied work in several broad categories such as: counseling process and outcome, supervision and training, career development and counseling, among others. Unifying factors in counseling psychologists include focus on strengths and assets, interactions among persons and environments, development in education and career, and others.
There are certain differences that may distinguish counseling from counseling psychology. In the United States, the principal agency in charge with accrediting counseling psychology programs is the American Psychological Association (APA). On the other hand, programs related to the field of counseling are accredited by the Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
In all 50 American states, licensing of counselors can be done at the Master’s Degree level once they are able to satisfy the criteria set forth by the United States. On the other hand, to obtain a license as a counseling psychologist, one should satisfy the qualification for licensure as a psychologist. On the doctoral level, both counseling psychologists and counselors can engage in applied work such as research and teaching.
Like other fields in modern psychology, counseling psychology started out during the Second World War. During that time, there was a strong need for US military personnel to undergo vocational placement and training. Counseling psychology was created by the Veterans Administration during the 1940s and 1950s. Likewise, Division 17, now called Society for Counseling Psychology, of the American Psychological Association was established. It promoted the need for counselor training as well as the establishment of the first Ph.D programs for counseling psychology.
At that time, the first schools that offered Ph. D programs for counseling psychology are the University of Minnesota, Ohio State University, University of Maryland, College Park, Teachers College, University of Missouri-Columbia, and University of Texas-Austin.
Counseling psychologists can work in a wide range of settings as determined by the services they offer and the clients they cater to. Some of them work in educational institutions such as colleges and universities working as teachers, service providers, researchers, and supervisors. Others work independently offering counseling, psychotherapy, consultation services and assessment to individuals, families, groups, and organizations.
Finally, counseling psychologists also work in community mental health centers, medical facilities accredited by the Veterans Administration and other facilities, family services, HMOs, rehabilitation centers, to name just a few. For more information about counseling psychology and psychology online, you can check out Psychology Fitness.

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