Affirmative Client Care: Reconciling Evidence-Based Practices within Humanistic Engagement

Authors

Harvey C. Peters, Syracuse UniversityFollow
Michele Rivas, Marist CollegeFollow

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Humanism, Evidence-Based Practices, Professional Tensions, Professional Counseling, Counselor Education

Subject Area

Counseling, Counselor Education, Mental Health Counseling

Abstract

Contemporary trends in mental health have furthered the counseling profession’s adherence to scientifically-based practices while grounded in core humanistic values. This has created philosophical and clinical tensions, especially for counselors adhering to a humanistic philosophy. Despite the documented pressures, there is a gap in the literature addressing how professional counselors can navigate the integration of evidence-based practices into humanism. This manuscript offers an affirmative stance on the navigation of these tensions through the use of a case discussion and actionable suggestions.

Recommended Citation

Peters, H. C., & Rivas, M. (2018). Affirmative Client Care: Reconciling Evidence-Based Practices within Humanistic Engagement. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 10(1). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/jcps/vol10/iss1/11