An Examination of Factors Associated With School Psychologists' Provision of Counseling Services
Year: 2012
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factors that predict provision of counseling services by Ohio-based school psychologists.In order to address the research questions, a survey instrument was created and a sample of school psychologists working in Ohio completed a questionnaire regarding their counseling practices.The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Logistic and multiple regression analyses were completed in order to identify the relative contribution of selected independent variables on the provision of individual and group counseling services.School psychologists who responded to the survey noted that they spend a small percentage of their time in the provision of counseling services and would prefer to spend more time in provision of counseling.Significant factors that were predictive of provision of individual counseling services included perceived support of the school district to provide counseling services and school psychologist desire to provide counseling services.Support from the school district and school psychologist desire to provide counseling were also predictive of provision of group counseling.However, additional factors were uniquely predictive of provision of group counseling as well, including caseload and school psychologist feelings of efficacy in counseling.This study added to the existing literature by describing current counseling practices of school psychologists and exploring factors associated with greater provision of counseling services.Future research could investigate indirect roles that school psychologists play in provision of mental health services in schools.v Thank you to my family, the Cooks, the Kellys, and the DeFagos, for your continued support through graduate school.Near or far, your love and faith in me have been a constant presence through this process and through my life.You have taught me how invaluable the support of a loving family is.Finally, this study could not have been completed without the tremendous support of my husband, Devin DeFago.Thank you for supporting my studies since day one, but also for your gentle reminders to take a break and have fun.For the past thirteen years, you have taught me so much about life, love, and happiness.Some of the most important life lessons I've learned and life experiences I've had have come from you.Thank you for all you do for me and all you have taught and continue to teach me.
Author: Jennifer Kelly DeFago
Institution: Kent State University
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
Funder: Kent State University
OpenAlex ID: W2273512325