bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What do patients with epilepsy tell us about language dynamics? A review of fMRI studies
Authors: Baciu Monica , Perrone-Bertolotti Marcela
Published: May 2015

The objective of this review is to resume major neuroimaging findings on language organization and plasticity in patients with focal and refractory epilepsy, to discuss the effect of modulatory variables that should be considered alongside patterns of reorganization, and to propose possible models of language reorganization. The focal and refractory epilepsy provides a real opportunity to investigate various types of language reorganization in different conditions. The ‘chronic’ condition (induced by the epileptogenic zone or EZ) is associated with either recruitment of homologous regions of the opposite hemisphere or recruitment of intrahemispheric, nonlinguistic regions. In the ‘acute’ condition (neurosurgery and EZ resection), the initial interhemispheric shift (induced by the chronic EZ) could follow a reverse direction, back to the initial hemisphere. These different patterns depend on several modulatory factors and are associated with various levels of language performance. As a neuroimaging tool, functional magnetic resonance imaging enables the detailed investigation of both hemispheres simultaneously and allows for comparison with healthy controls, potentially creating a more comprehensive and more realistic picture of brain-language relations. Importantly, functional neuroimaging approaches demonstrate a good degree of concordance on a theoretical level, but also a considerable degree of individual variability, attesting to the clinical importance with these methods to establish, empirically, language localization in individual patients. Overall, the unique features of epilepsy, combined with ongoing advances in technology, promise further improvement in understanding of language substrate.
El menosprecio y la burla como armas de ataque en el debate electoral. Caracterización funcional y configuración discursiva
Authors: Fernández García Francisco
Published: May 2015

El presente trabajo, integrado en un proyecto investigador de mayor envergadura sobre el ataque descortés en el debate electoral, desarrolla el análisis de dos estrategias de descortesía que revelan un funcionamiento particularmente interesante en dichos eventos discursivos: el menosprecio y la burla hacia el adversario.

Tomando como referencia el último debate cara a cara de máximo nivel celebrado en España hasta el momento, el que enfrentó a A. Pérez Rubalcaba y M. Rajoy en la campaña para las elecciones generales de 2011, se analiza el valor funcional de estas estrategias y los rasgos de las diversas variantes que presentan, así como los diferentes patrones lingüístico-discursivos en que toman forma. A ello se une su caracterización desde el punto de vista teórico de la descortesía lingüística.

El trabajo, además, se contextualiza en el marco de la investigación en la que se integra, un análisis global del funcionamiento de la descortesía en el debate citado, en el que se aísla una nómina de estrategias de descortesía, se realiza un inventario de los mecanismos lingüístico-discursivos que se ponen en juego para su ejecución y se lleva a cabo una caracterización de los ataques desde el prisma teórico de la descortesía.
Aqueous Processing of L-Glutathione Capped ZnO Quantum dots for Potential Biomedical Applications
Authors: Feliciano-Crespo Raquel , Rodriguez José A , Reyes-Blas Myrna , Zhong Chuan-Jian , Perales-Perez Oscar
Published: May 2015

Medical research has demonstrated the importance of the utilization of stable, fluorescent nanoprobes. The present work addresses the applicability of biocompatible and fluorescent ZnO nanoparticles as probes for detection of pathogens with the aim of achieving extremely low detection limits. For this purpose, ZnO surface must be functionalized for its subsequent interaction with bacterial cellular membrane (coupling), which will allow the corresponding detection and quantification. Herein we will discuss the aqueous synthesis of stable, water soluble and biologically compatible ZnO nanoparticles (NPss) capped with L-glutathione (GSH). The understanding of the interactions between GSH molecules and surface atoms in ZnO QDs became critical to foster the applicability of this nanomaterial in the biomedical and bioengineering fields. In this regard, the GSH/ZnO molar ratios, reaction temperature (40°C and 60°C), time and pH (6-9) became crucial factors to attain suitable tuning of the QDs properties. ZnO/GSH synthesized QDs were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, FT-IR, UV-Vis and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The QDs shape was spherical with a particle size between 80-100nm. The synthesis of ZnO/GSH under different experimental conditions and the corresponding coupling with E. Coli species, are presented and discussed.
Robot Assisted Synthesis and Characterization of Polyester-based Polyurethanes
Authors: Baudis Stefan , Lendlein Andreas , Behl Marc
Published: May 2015

Dihydroxy telechelics are precursors for the synthesis of multiblock copolymers. In order to synthesize high molecular weight polymers with good elastic properties it is necessary to gain detailed knowledge of the reaction behavior of these precursors. Therefore it was explored whether the polyaddition reaction of polyester-diols can be established in a robotic synthesizer platform to facilitate the elucidation of reaction characteristics. A series of 16 reactions was performed using a telechelic polyester and trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate. The chain extension behavior of the building block was compared with respect to the Carothers equation. It was found, that the chain extension behavior follows the expected trend. The molecular weight of the polymers increased when the optimal ratio of reactive groups was approached.
Using Relationship Enhancement Therapy with an Adolescent with Serious Mental Illness and Substance Dependence
Authors: Accordino Michael P. , Keat II Donald B. , Guerney Bernard G.
Published: May 2015

Relationship Enhancement" (RE) therapy can be a useful intervention for adolescents with serious mental illness and their family members.The authors review the basic concepts and effectiveness of RE therapy and illustrate how it is implemented. Following 18 hours of RE therapy, a family--consisting of a mother, a father, and a son with serious mental illness and substance dependence-- exhibited the ability to communicate and solve problems effectively. A discussion of the implications of this case example for research and mental health counseling are also included.
Understanding Dropouts
Authors: Klein Edward B. , Stone Walter N. , Hicks Mitchell W. , Pritchard Ian L.
Published: May 2015

This study examined differences between clients who did or did not notify mental health providers of intent to discontinue treatment. Clients who did not notify were more likely to be women, attend less than four sessions, and rate their overall functioning lower. Both groups showed significant improvement, and self-reports were found to be a better indicator of progress than counselor estimates. Findings suggested that the adoption of mutual goals and empathetic counselor attitudes toward client treatment expectations might increase staff awareness of satisfied dropouts who have made therapeutic gains. Implications include benefits to staff morale and the larger Community Mental Health Center system in which almost half of all clients discontinue treatment without informing staff.
The Effects of Assessment Feedback on Rapport-Building and Self-Enhancement Processes
Authors: Allen Andrea , Montgomery Marilyn , Tubman Jonathan , Frazier Leslie , Escovar Luis
Published: May 2015

An experiment was conducted to test the effects of assessment feedback on rapport and self-enhancement. After adult participants (N = 83) completed the Millon Index of Personality Styles, the experimental group was given personalized assessment feedback; the control group received only general information about the inventory. After the session, all rapport-related scores (positive evaluations of examiner and session) and most of the self-enhancement-related scores (accurate mirroring, self-esteem, self-competence, and self-understanding) were significantly higher in the group that received assessment feedback. These results suggest that both processes are mechanisms by which the provision of assessment feedback produces positive change. Implications for mental health counselors are drawn.
Issues and Standards in Counseling Lesbians and Gay Men with Substance Abuse Concerns
Authors: Cheng Zhankun
Published: May 2015

In this article, the author analyzes the issues and standards facing mental health counselors (MHCs) when working with lesbians and gay men who have substance abuse problems. In order to provide professional and affirmative services to clients from this population, it is critical for MHCs to understand the social and historical context of the lives of lesbians and gay men. Therefore, some of the major factors that contribute to substance abuse problems in the gay community are explored. Finally, guidelines regarding legal protections for this population are provided.
The Impact of Menopause: Implications for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Baldo Tracy D. , Schneider Mercedes K. , Slyter Marty
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this article is to present a brief, informative view of the impact of menopause along with implications for mental health counselors. Menopause and associated stages are defined; symptoms associated with these stages are discussed; the benefits, risks and consequences of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are considered; and recommendations for mental health counselors are provided.
The Development of an Assessment Protocol for Reactive Attachment Disorder
Authors: Sheperis Carl J. , Doggett R. Anthony , Hoda Nicholas E. , Blanchard Tracy , Renfro-Michel Edina L. , Holdiness Sacky H. , Schlagheck Robyn
Published: May 2015

Attachment is a critical issue among children in foster and adoptive settings. It is essential for mental health counselors who work with these children to develop appropriate appraisal skills for diagnosing Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), a syndrome associated with extreme attachment problems. However, there is no comprehensive procedure to assess a child for RAD.Thus, we propose a battery of semi-structured interviews, global assessment scales, attachment-specific scales, and behavioral observations to help mental health counselors identify the disorder. We provide a case example to illustrate the utility of each assessment process.
Do We Need Multicultural Counseling Competencies?
Authors: Patterson C. H.
Published: May 2015

Weinrach and Thomas (2002) have shown rather conclusively that the Competencies are irreparably flawed. The attempt to develop such a document was misguided in the first place. There is no need for such a document, and thus no purpose in attempting to remedy its flaws. In the present discussion, I consider the more general problems with multicultural counseling. In addition, I propose a general solution to the problems of counseling clients who are members of a wide variety of culturally distinct groups. The Competencies are lacking any philosophical or theoretical foundations and are based on two untenable assumptions.
Multicultural Counseling Competencies in a Pluralistic Society
Authors: Coleman Hardin L. K.
Published: May 2015

Weinrach and Thomas (2002) have articulated a number of concerns raised by the proposed standards of multicultural counseling competencies (Arredondo et al., 1996). This response to their critique concludes that they have raised many legitimate ideas that need to be incorporated into the competencies, and that there is a great need for professionals to accept a common set of standards to guide best counseling practices in a pluralistic society.
The AMCD Multicultural Counseling Competencies: A Critically Flawed Initiative
Authors: Weinrach Stephen G. , Thomas Kenneth R.
Published: May 2015

This article responds to four reactions to Weinrach and Thomas’s (2002) critique of the AMCD Multicultural Counseling Competencies. Among the major points made in the present article are the following: Although racial discrimination exists, both within and outside of the counseling context, the Competencies do little to combat it. In fact, the Competencies actually promote viewing persons primarily as members of specific racial and ethnic groups. The Competencies exist at a symbolic and an applied level. Significant problems exist for mental health counselors at both of these levels.The Competencies’ greatest flaw is their preoccupation with perceived deficits in clients, the counseling profession, and American society. It is virtually impossible to separate the content of the Competencies from the political process that has surrounded efforts to promote their universal adoption.
Counseling With Children in Contemporary Society
Authors: Goldman Linda
Published: May 2015

This article examines elements related to children’s developmental understandings of death, ways to talk to children about death, a broad understanding of the nature of children’s grief and bereavement, recognition of the common characteristics of grieving children, and useful interventions.The research related to the child grief process and the intrinsic value of therapeutic and educational supports in working with grieving children are discussed through case studies, the professional literature, and practical interventions that support the process of grief therapy for mental health counselors and the bereaved child.
Connections Between Counseling Theories and Current Theories of Grief and Mourning
Authors: Servaty-Seib Heather L.
Published: May 2015

The primary purpose of the present article is to provide an overview of three theories of mourning—The Dual Process Model of Coping with Bereavement, Meaning Reconstruction and Loss, and Attachment Theory and Loss: Revisited. These are linked both by their emphasis on the phenomenological and by ideas such as balance and flexibility. Connections are drawn between the mourning theories and counseling theories that are commonly employed by mental health counselors.
Adolescent Experiences with Death: Letting Go of Immortality
Authors: Noppe Illene Cupit , Noppe Lloyd D.
Published: May 2015

Adolescents increasingly are exposed to death, and the quality of their grief differs from that of adults or children. This article highlights adolescent experiences with death within the context of normative developmental tasks and a consideration of ethnic and gender variations.
Poor, Rural and Female: Under-Studied, Under-Counseled, More At-Risk
Authors: Myers Jane E. , Gill Carman S.
Published: May 2015

The feminization of poverty has been well documented, and the relationship between the experiences of poverty and negative mental health outcomes has been identified. These consequences remain largely unexamined for women living in rural areas that comprise a population both at risk and underserved by mental health professionals.The dynamics of poverty for these women and the relationship between poverty lifestyles and physical and mental well-being is explored.A model for assessment and mental health interventions is presented. Implications for mental health counseling and for research are considered.
The Human-Animal Bond and Loss: Providing Support for Grieving Clients
Authors: Toray Tamina
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this article is to increase mental health counselors' awareness of the importance of pets in the lives of their clients and to provide a greater understanding of the grief process accompanying the death of a companion animal. A broad framework for assessing clients' attachments to their pets and conceptualizing grief as it relates to pet loss will be presented.
Anxiety Diagnoses and Their Relationship to the Number of Prescribed Psychotropic Medications
Authors: Sansone Randy A. , Gaither George A. , Rytwinski Dorota
Published: May 2015

We designed this study to explore the relationship between an anxiety disorder diagnosis and the number of prescribed psychotropic medications. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 337 psychiatry outpatients, who were being seen in a psychotherapy training clinic, with regard to psychiatric diagnosis and the number of psychotropic medications.We grouped diagnoses into three categories: (a) anxiety disorders, (b) mood disorders, and (c) other Axis I disorders.Approximately 16% of persons were prescribed no psychotropic medications, while 41.5%, 30.0%, 8.6%, 2.7%, and 0.9% were prescribed one, two, three, four, and five psychotropic medications, respectively. The proportion of individuals on more than one medication with anxiety disorders was significantly greater than the base rate in the overall sample (z = 3.21, p < .001) or the proportion diagnosed with mood (z = 2.53, p = .01) or other Axis I disorders (z = 3.90, p < .001). In addition, for persons who were diagnosed with different diagnostic groupings, when one was anxiety disorders, they were more likely to be prescribed multiple psychotropic medications. In an outpatient psychiatry clinic, an anxiety disorder diagnosis appears to heighten the likelihood of being prescribed a greater number of psychotropic medications.We discuss the possible implications of these findings in outpatient mental health settings.
Integrated Health Care: Improving Client Care while Providing Opportunities for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Aitken Jana Bowling , Curtis Russ
Published: May 2015

Integrated health care, the co-location of mental health and medical professionals within primary care settings, is an emerging trend. In essence, integrated care eases the access such that underserved primary care clients with mental health needs can receive treatment. Current models of integrated care are described, and strategies for mental health counselors' involvement within primary care settings are discussed.
Master Therapists' Construction of the Therapy Relationship
Authors: Sullivan Michael F. , Skovholt Thomas M. , Jennings Len
Published: May 2015

Qualitative research methods were used to elicit master therapists' statements regarding their use and understanding of the therapy relationship. The master therapists were identified and recruited in a previous study (Jennings & Skovholt, 1999) through a procedure used to create a sample of information-rich cases.The result of the analysis is a Model of Relationship Stances.The Safe Relationship Domain is composed of three categories of therapist actions: Responding, Collaborating, and Joining. The Challenging Relationship Domain also is composed of three categories of therapist actions: Using Self, Engaging, and Objectivity.The domains and categories are conceptualized as relationship stances utilized by the master therapists to meet individual client needs.
Nine Ethical Values of Master Therapists
Authors: Jennings Len , Sovereign Ashley , Bottorff Nancy , Mussell Melissa Pederson , Vye Christopher
Published: May 2015

This study employed the Consensual Qualitative Research method (Hill, Thompson, & Williams, 1997) to reanalyze interview data from a previous qualitative study of the personal characteristics of master therapists (Jennings & Skovholt, 1999). Previous research has demonstrated that therapists utilize a variety of resources when making ethical decisions, including professional codes of conduct and their own values. The current study's analysis of 10 master therapists' interviews resulted in the identification of nine ethical values related to their clinical practice: (a) relational connection, (b) autonomy, (c) beneficence, (d) nonmaleficence, (e) competence, (f) humility, (g) professional growth, (h) openness to complexity and ambiguity, and (i) self-awareness. Conducting oneself ethically is a critical task of the competent therapist (American Psychological Association, 2002). Making the best ethical decisions can be extremely challenging for most therapists due to the multitude of complex ethical situations that arise in practice. The goal of this study is to examine the ethical values of therapists considered to be "the best of the best" by their professional colleagues. It is hoped that such an examination will help to illuminate the ethical values that these master therapists seem to draw upon in their work.
Counseling in Fiji
Authors: Auxier C. R. , Forster Peter M. , Kuruleca Selina C.
Published: May 2015

This article discusses the evolving role of mental health counseling in Fiji in the context of current social and cultural changes. Although counseling traditionally has been reserved for cultural elders and the clergy, the term counselor is being redefined, due to Western influences, to include persons who are formally educated and trained to provide mental health services. Contemporary issues such as changing gender roles, violence, and suicide are discussed as forces that are influencing the need for trained mental health counselors. This article discusses the current status of educating and credentialing counselors in Fiji and emphasizes counselor education that stresses methods suited to the cultural characteristics of persons in the region.
Mental Health and Counseling in Japan: A Path Toward Societal Transformation
Authors: Iwasaki Michiko
Published: May 2015

The collectivist Japanese culture has been influenced by Westernization and internationalization. Today's Japanese mental health problems reflect the confusion among Japanese individuals who live in an unstable period between enduring interdependent cultural values and emerging Western values of independence. This article underscores the importance of mental health counselors working congruently within Japanese society by incorporating the social justice perspective. A conceptual framework for optimal societal adaptation is presented. The proposed model consists of action-oriented outreach and advocacy designed to create societal transformation to foster psychological well-being and reduce existing stigma about psychosocial problems and treatment. Mental health issues in the changing climate of contemporary Japan are illustrated. Emphasis is placed on culturally specific trends and resources in order to prevent conflicts and to maintain harmony among individuals within the changing societal systems.
Counseling for Adolescents and Children At-Risk in Italy
Authors: Soresi Salvatore , Nota Laura , Ferrari Lea
Published: May 2015

The aim of the present article is to describe the difficulties experienced by some Italian children and adolescents.We distinguish, however, between overt forms of maladjustment, such as juvenile delinquency, drug addiction, depression, and suicidal behavior, and less severe forms of maladjustment, which are generally associated with poor decision-making skills, social difficulties, and unproductive coping strategies. This presentation is then followed by a description of the current counseling situation in Italy.Also presented is a specific counseling program for at-risk young adolescents and children, conducted with a small group of individuals as part of a broader prevention project aimed at preventing bullying.
Psychological and Cultural Influences on Koreans' Help-Seeking Attitudes
Authors: Yoo Sung-Kyung , Goh Michael , Yoon Eunju
Published: May 2015

This study examined the influence of gender, cultural variables (i.e., horizontal and vertical individualism), and personal psychological variables (i.e., psychological distress, social-network orientation, and self-concealment) on attitudes toward seeking counseling in Korea. For the 142 college student participants, gender, social network orientation, and self-concealment significantly influenced attitudes toward seeking professional help. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis suggested that higher scores on negative social network orientation and self-concealment were associated with lower attitudes toward seeking professional help. Men showed more negative help-seeking attitudes than women. Implications of the findings for developing and delivering counseling services in Korea are discussed.
Truth or Consequences: A Neopragmatic Critique of Contemporary Mental Health Culture
Authors: Hansen James T.
Published: May 2015

The mental health counseling profession has increasingly identified with the values of contemporary mental health culture by adopting a descriptive, medicalized perspective. Using a postmodern, neopragmatic analysis, I argue that the consequences of adopting this perspective must be considered. Two such consequences are discussed: (a) the abandonment of an effective, relational orientation toward helping, and (b) the forfeiting of the unique contribution that a traditional counseling perspective can provide to contemporary mental health culture.
Mental Health Counselor Qualities for a Diverse Clientele: Linking Empathy, Universal-Diverse Orientation, and Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Miville Marie L. , Carlozzi Alfred F. , Gushue George V. , Schara Sara L. , Ueda Masafumi
Published: May 2015

We examined how culturally relevant variables, including universal-diverse orientation (UDO), an attitude characterized by awareness and acceptance of similarities and differences between self and others, and emotional intelligence, the ability to accurately monitor emotions, might be related to empathy.Two-hundred-and-eleven counseling graduate students completed measures of these variables, as well as a demographic sheet. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that UDO and emotional intelligence, along with gender, significantly explained variance in empathy. Implications for effective mental health counseling across diverse settings are discussed.
Transitions, Wellness, and Life Satisfaction: Implications for Counseling Midlife Women
Authors: Degges-White Suzanne , Myers Jane E.
Published: May 2015

A diverse sample of 224 women, aged 35 to 65, participated in a study to examine the relations among transitions, life satisfaction, and wellness. The Women’s Midlife Transitions Survey, developed for this study, provided information on the timeliness, expectedness, and impact of common midlife transitions. Implications for mental health counselors include the need to help midlife women understand and cope with a variety of common life changes that individually and collectively help to define their midlife experience.
Relationship of Spirituality to Work and Family Roles and Life Satisfaction Among Gifted Adults
Authors: Perrone Kristin M. , Webb L. Kay , Wright Stephen L. , Jackson Z. Vance , Ksiazak Tracy M.
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship of spirituality to work and family roles and life satisfaction among gifted adults. Satisfaction with work and family roles was examined in combination with spiritual well-being in order to study the contribution each makes to variance in life satisfaction. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed in order to gain a greater depth of understanding of these complex issues. Results from multiple regression analyses indicated that existential well-being and marital satisfaction contributed significantly to life satisfaction. In response to open-ended questions, participants articulated many ways in which their spirituality impacted their work, marriage, parenting, and life satisfaction. Results are discussed in relation to the literature. Implications for mental health counseling and future research are provided.
Discovery and Creation within the Counseling Process: Reflections on the Timeless Nature of the Helping Encounter
Authors: Hansen James T.
Published: May 2015

Discovery and creation are significant elements of experience within the counseling process. These terms can also serve as metaphors for modern and postmodern epistemologies. These dual meanings for discovery and creation are exploited to examine the intersection of counseling and philosophy, particularly in terms of the timeless nature of the helping encounter.
Potential Stressors Contributing to Eating Disorder Symptoms in African American Women: Implications for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Talleyrand Regine M.
Published: May 2015

Eating disorders initially were considered to occur among young, White middle class women. However, during the last two decades, high rates of obesity-related symptoms (e.g., binge-eating) and obesity have been documented among African American women. Despite emerging findings about the presence of eating and health concerns among African American women, few counseling models of eating disorder symptomatology have included the socialization experiences of African American women.This paper examines, from a contextual perspective, the unique stressors that may contribute to eating disorder symptoms in African American women. Implications for race and culture-specific counseling are discussed and recommendations for mental health counselors are presented.
A Narrative Approach to Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Authors: Costa Daiana da , Nelson Treasa M. , Rudes James , Guterman Jeffrey T.
Published: May 2015

Narrative therapy is proposed as an effective treatment for body dysmorphic disorder. A case example illustrates the clinical application. Implications for the theory and practice of body dysmorphic disorder are considered.
Use of Mental Health Services by Adults Who Were Adopted as Infants
Authors: Pearson Frances , Curtis Reagan , Chapman Amanda Milligan
Published: May 2015

Adults adopted as infants (N = 156) were surveyed to determine the degree to which they had sought help or guidance with psychological issues during adolescence and adulthood. Less than 12% reported seeking help and women sought help more frequently than men. When they sought professional help, they mostly utilized counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists, but frequently sought help from other sources such as friends, family, and support groups. The results of the study are discussed in light of literature that suggests this population is more frequently referred for help and recommendations are made for practice and research.
Recovered Memory Debate Revisited: Practice Implications for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Colangelo James J.
Published: May 2015

With the high incidence of childhood sexual abuse and the attendant serious negative consequences resulting from it clearly documented, there is a high probability that many mental health counselors will at some point in their career provide treatment to members of this population. Since memory retrieval is an integral part of the treatment protocol when working with such clients, it is imperative that clinicians have a good understanding of the controversy over recovered memories of childhood sexual abuse. This article revisits the controversy, provides a detailed discussion of the issues involved, and offers practice implications for mental health counselors.
Paradigms of Counseling and Psychotherapy, Revisited: Is Social Constructivism a Paradigm?
Authors: Cottone R. Rocco
Published: May 2015

This article revisits the criteria outlined for definition of “paradigms” of counseling and psychotherapy. It defines the emergence of social constructivism as a philosophy with implications for counseling and psychotherapy. It delimits social constructivism by proposing several social constructivist tenets. Social constructivism is assessed against paradigm criteria, and an opinion is offered as to whether social constructivism represents a paradigm of counseling and psychotherapy. Implications of the paradigm analysis for the practice of mental health counseling are outlined.
Russian Speaking Immigrants from the Commonwealth of Independent States in the United States: Implications for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Hundley Gulnora , Lambie Glenn W.
Published: May 2015

In this article, we present common mental health issues facing Russian speaking immigrants from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), highlighting the necessity for counselors to have an understanding and appreciation of these issues in order to provide effective treatment services. An introduction to CIS mental health services and a historical description of the influence of the communist government on health care in the CIS are provided. Additionally, we review the cultural beliefs and values of CIS immigrants regarding mental health services and their underutilization. Finally, a series of practical suggestions for mental health counselors providing services to Russian speaking immigrants are offered.
Participation in Counseling: Does Family Matter? An Analysis of a Community Population
Authors: Stupak Dawn , Hook Misty K. , Hall Diane M.
Published: May 2015

Premature termination from counseling is a significant problem for the field of counseling. In contrast to previous research on counseling dropout, in this study, the authors examined the impact of family participation and constellation as possible mediators.Archival data were collected from 113 client files at a non-profit community mental health agency in North Texas and chi square analyses were conducted. Results indicated that family participation was an important factor in counseling continuation. Implications for clinical practice, research, training, and public policy are discussed.
Working with Suicidal Clients Using the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS)
Authors: Jobes David A. , Moore Melinda M. , O’Connor Stephen S.
Published: May 2015

The Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) was developed to modify clinician behaviors in how they initially identify, engage, assess, conceptualize, treatment plan, and manage suicidal outpatients. This approach integrates a range of theoretical orientations into a structured clinical format emphasizing the importance of the counselor and client working together to elucidate and understand the “functional” role of suicidal thoughts and behaviors from the client’s perspective. Based on clinical research in various outpatient settings, CAMS provides mental health counselors with a novel clinical approach that is tailored to a suicidal client’s idiosyncratic needs thereby insuring the effective clinical assessment, treatment, and tracking of high risk suicidal clients.
Looking Back at Adolescent Depression: A Qualitative Study
Authors: McCarthy John , Downes Edward J. , Sherman Christine A.
Published: May 2015

Adolescent depression is a serious disorder marked by a prevalence rate of approximately 5% along with significant rates of relapse and mortality (Brent & Birmaher, 2002). This qualitative study involved semistructured interviews of nine young adults who were diagnosed with and treated for major depressive disorder between the ages of 15 and 18. Five themes emerged from the interviews: (a) talking to a counselor about their depression was helpful; (b) participants obtained relief in their counseling and expressed respect for their professional helpers; (c) parental (and adult) partnerships are important; (d) friends of the adolescent clients were usually helpful to them; and (e) the adolescents possessed a realistic optimism concerning a possible subsequent depressive episode. Implications for mental health counselors are also discussed.
Mental Health Professionals’ Evaluations of the Integral Intake, A Metatheory-Based, Idiographic Intake Instrument
Authors: Marquis Andre , Holden Janice Miner
Published: May 2015

This study assessed mental health experts’ comparative evaluations of the two existing published idiographic intake instruments, the Adlerian-based Life-Style Introductory Interview (LI) and the Multimodal Life History Inventory (MI), along with Marquis’ (2002; in press) newly developed Integral Intake (II), grounded in Ken Wilber’s (1999d) integral theory. Fifty-eight counseling/psychotherapy educators and experienced mental health practitioners perused the three instruments and then used the author-developed Evaluation Form to respond to open-ended questions, as well as to rate and rank them on 11 dimensions: the instrument’s overall helpfulness, comprehensiveness, and efficiency, and 8 fundamental dimensions of clients (thoughts, emotions, behaviors, physical aspects, culture, environmental systems, spirituality, and what is most meaningful to them). Respondents evaluated the LI consistently worst, and the II better than the MI on all three instrument dimensions and four of the eight client dimensions. We discuss the II’s potential to become a standard in the field of mental health counseling.
Writing for Publication in the JMHC: Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Authors: Prieto Loreto , Kress Victoria E.
Published: May 2015

In this editorial, we address common writing errors observed in submissions for publication in the JMHC. We provide suggestions to those seeking publication of their work in JMHC on how to avoid these common pitfalls and improve the chances of their work being more favorably reviewed.
Self-injury, Sexual Self-concept, and a Conservative Christian Upbringing: An Exploratory Study of Three Young Women’s Perspectives
Authors: Wagner Joyce , Rehfuss Mark
Published: May 2015

In this exploratory study we used qualitative methods to examine possible relations between young women’s self-injurious behaviors, sexual self-concept, and a conservative Christian upbringing. Structured interviews were conducted with three young women fitting these characteristics from a private Christian university in the Northeastern United States. Phenomological data analysis revealed themes for these women that support a relation between their SIB and the development and expression of both their spirituality and sexuality. Implications for counseling practice include the need for a thorough assessment of past and present spirituality and the inclusion of sexual self-concept into counseling discussions.
An Examination of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury Among College Students
Authors: Heath Nancy L. , Toste Jessica R. , Nedecheva Tatiana , Charlebois Alison
Published: May 2015

This study examines characteristics (i.e., prevalence, method, age of onset, frequency) of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and associated risk factors in a college student sample. Results revealed 11.68% admitted to engaging in NSSI at least once and no significant gender difference in occurrence of NSSI. Even in this college sample, those who self-injure differed substantially from non-self-injurers with regard to emotion regulation, but were not found to differ significantly on either early attachment or childhood trauma and abuse. Importance of understanding NSSI as an emerging behavior among college students is discussed.
Asian American Students’ Cultural Values, Stigma, and Relational Self-construal: Correlates of Attitudes Toward Professional Help Seeking
Authors: Shea Munyi , Yeh Christine J.
Published: May 2015

In this study, we investigated how adherence to Asian values, stigma of receiving psychological help, relational-interdependent self-construal, age and gender, for Asian American college and graduate students, singly and in concert predicted attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help. We also examined how stigma mediates the effect of adherence to Asian values on help-seeking attitudes. Correlational and multiple regression analyses determined that lower adherence to Asian values, lower levels of stigma, a higher relational-interdependent self-construal were associated with more positive help-seeking attitudes. Also, female and older students possessed more positive help-seeking attitudes. The mediational model was not significant. We discuss potential barriers to seeking professional help across sociocultural levels. We address implications for research and practice in mental health counseling.
Superficial Self-Harm: Perceptions of Young Women Who Hurt Themselves
Authors: Ryan Katherine , Heath Melissa Allen , Fischer Lane , Young Ellie L.
Published: May 2015

Although only 1% to 4% of the U.S. population engages in superficial self-harm (SSH), this behavior is much more prevalent in adolescents, with estimates ranging from 14% to 39%. While current studies primarily focus on clinical interventions, few have investigated SSH from an individual’s perspective, and there is little guidance for family, friends, and others who desire to provide assistance. In particular, those in close contact with youth, particularly in schools, need basic information on SSH and suggestions for responding to students at risk. One-on-one, day-to-day, practical and effective intervention is needed. This study investigated the perspectives of 96 young women with a history of SSH. Based on their responses to an Internet survey, friends and mental health professionals were perceived as most helpful in acknowledging the individual’s emotional pain and distress. Participants also wanted others to be nonjudgmental, to permit emotional expression, and to acknowledge their availability to offer help. Translated into practice, young women who engage in SSH consider an accepting supportive relationship to be a critical element in their recovery.
Counseling Clients Involved with Violent Intimate Partners: The Mental Health Counselor’s Role in Promoting Client Safety
Authors: Kress Victoria E. , Protivnak Jake J. , Sadlak Lauren
Published: May 2015

Mental health counselors regularly counsel clients who are in intimate relationships with partners who are violent. There is a dearth of literature addressing safety-related considerations when counseling clients in relationships that involve intimate partner violence (IPV). The authors draw on the literature to address safety-related counseling considerations that can be applied when counseling these clients. This article provides information about how to accurately assess IPV, explores safety-related ethical issues that arise when counseling clients in IPV relationships, and explains the use of safety plans as a tool for promoting the safety of clients in IPV relationships.
Perceptions of Multicultural Counseling Competency: Integration of the Curricular and the Practical
Authors: Vereen Linwood G. , Hill Nicole R. , McNeal Donell T.
Published: May 2015

A national survey of counselor trainees was conducted to investigate variables that influence the development of perceived multicultural competencies. The development of multicultural counseling competencies from an integrative educational perspective was overviewed as a framework for empirically exploring these factors. The group differences on counselor trainees’ scores of perceived multicultural competence was explored based on clinical supervision, number of multicultural classes, and number of non-White clients. Results indicate that receiving clinical supervision related to multicultural issues and conducting counseling with more non-White clients interacted significantly with higher scores of multicultural competence. Such findings highlight current curricular and practical issues within mental health counselor education and frame the need for ongoing research that evaluates our emphasis and commitment to multicultural counseling in the 21st century.
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Motivational Interviewing: Enhancing Readiness for Change
Authors: Kress Victoria E. , Hoffman Rachel M.
Published: May 2015

The authors advance motivational interviewing and the transtheoretical model of change as a conceptual framework for counseling clients who engage in nonsuicidal self-injurious behaviors. The major principles of motivational interviewing are applied in a case study of a client who self-injures. Recommendations are made for mental health counseling practice.
The Role of Help and Hope in Prevention and Early Intervention with Suicidal Adolescents: Implications for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Roswarski Todd Eric , Dunn J. Patrick
Published: May 2015

The role of help and hope as protective factors in prevention and early intervention with suicidal adolescents is examined. Hope is a forward-looking attitude serving as a buffer against suicide. Help reflects the belief and reality that there is a place to turn for support or assistance; it serves as a dynamic force against suicide. Help and hope can be powerful and mutually reinforcing components of any attempt to reach adolescents contemplating suicide. Implications for mental health counselors are presented, with an emphasis on the interrelatedness of help and hope.
Understanding Suicidal Behavior in the Military: An Evaluation of Joiner’s Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicidal Behavior in Two Case Studies of Active Duty Post-Deployers
Authors: Anestis Michael D. , Bryan Craig J. , Cornette Michelle M. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: May 2015

Suicide in the military is a growing concern. We reviewed empirical studies and used two case studies to illustrate the potential explanatory role of Joiner's (2005) interpersonal-psychological theory of suicidal behavior. The theory posits that three variables—perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability for suicide—determine the risk of an individual engaging in a lethal suicide attempt. In our case studies, we illustrate how these variables might be affected in an active duty population post-deployment. Although methodological limitations preclude conclusive determinations, the case studies provide a framework within which to understand the phenomenon of suicide in the military. Future work that examines these findings empirically will be invaluable to both researchers and mental health counselors.
Combat Stress Reactions During Military Deployments: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Combat Stress Control Treatment
Authors: Potter Aron R. , Baker Monty T. , Sanders Carmen S. , Peterson Alan L.
Published: May 2015

Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of mental health treatments for the combat stress reactions of military service members treated in deployed locations. The present pilot investigation is the first report on the effectiveness of a Combat Stress Control (CSC) unit treatment for deployed service members. Thirty-eight United States military personnel (33 men and 5 women) completed a 2-day CSC unit program at Balad Air Base, Iraq. The program included individual and group treatments to reduce the symptoms of combat operational stress reactions and to improve coping strategies, stress management skills, and interpersonal relationships. Measures used included the Outcome Questionnaire-45 (OQ-45) and the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Military version (PCL-M). The study found significant decreases on the OQ-45 and the PCL-M. These results provide preliminary data to support the use of CSC units to treat combat operational stress reactions in the field.
Chronic Pain: Biological Understanding and Treatment Suggestions for Mental Health Counselors
Authors: Farrugia David , Fetter Holly
Published: May 2015

Biopsychosocial factors related to chronic pain are discussed as a necessary foundation for understanding and helping clients who are in pain. Familiar evidence-based counseling approaches that have proven useful for working with clients who are in pain are reviewed to identify how practitioners can use their counseling skills to help these clients. Approaches reviewed are assessment considerations, use of psychotropic medications, cognitive-behavioral strategies, hypnosis and imagery techniques, family considerations, and positive psychology.
Strength-Based Mental Health Counseling for Children with ADHD: An Integrative Model of Adventure-Based Counseling and Adlerian Play Therapy
Authors: Portrie-Bethke Torey L. , Hill Nicole R. , Bethke Jerid G.
Published: May 2015

The hyperactivity and impulsivity experienced by children who are diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can pose challenges for families, teachers, and mental health counselors (Barkley, 2000). The authors present an integrative model of Adlerian play therapy and adventure-based counseling (ABC) that extends beyond traditional talk therapy, fosters a strength-based perspective, and is action-oriented and dynamic. Specific ABC treatment activities for working with children and families affected by ADHD are presented in the context of the four phases of treatment in Adlerian play therapy.