Counseling Theory: Guiding Reflective Practice

Organized around the latest CACREP standards, Counseling Theory: Guiding Reflective Practice, by Richard D. Parsons and Naijian Zhang, presents theory as an essential component to both counselor identity formation and professional practice. Drawing on the contributions of current practitioners, the text uses both classical and cutting-edge theoretical models of change as lenses for processing client information and developing case conceptualizations and intervention plans. Each chapter provides a snapshot of a particular theory/approach and the major thinkers associated with each theory as well as case illustrations and guided practice exercises to help readers internalize the content presented and apply it to their own development as counselors.

Richard D. Parsons, Ph.D., is a Professor Emeritus in Counselor Education at West Chester University. He has over 45 years of experience in university teaching and clinical practice. 

Dr. Parsons has authored over 100 books, chapters, and professional articles. His most recent books include AI (Artificial Intelligence): Facilitating the Delivery of Mental Health Services (Cognella); Art Therapy: A Creative and Effective Approach to the Treatment of PTSD (Cognella); Positive Psychology: Science and Application of Psycho-Emotional Health and Well-being (Cognella), Brief Psychotherapy: Time-Limited and Effective Treatment (Cognella), and Facilitating Growth Through Lifespan Development (Cognella). Dr. Parsons also serves as the creator and editor of two book series: Counseling and Professional Identity, a 24-book series targeting counselor educators (Sage Publishing), and The Student Success Series, a ten-book series (Cognella Academic Publishing).

Naijian Zhang, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and tenured full professor in the Department of Counselor Education at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Zhang has over 20 years’ experience of clinical practice and teaching in counseling psychology, higher education/student affairs, and language programs at college and university and was also a university administrator (Acting Department Chair, Graduate Coordinator). He has authored, coauthored, and edited over 40 articles, book chapters, and books. His most recent books include Field Experience: Transitioning from Student to Professional in 2015, Counseling Theory: Guiding Reflective Practice in 2014, Becoming a Skilled Counselor in 2013, Rentz’s Student Affairs Practice in Higher Education and Psychology in 2016, and Multicultural and Diversity Issues in Student Affairs Practice: A Professional Competency-Based Approach in 2019. Dr. Zhang is also the co-editor of the book series Counseling and Professional Identity which consists of 23 counseling books and editor of the book series, American Series in Student Affairs Practice and Professional Identity (11 volumes). Dr. Zhang was Vice President, President, and Past-President of the Association of Chinese Helping Professionals and Psychologists – International. He is a recipient of the Travel Award from the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Outstanding Research Award and Outstanding Service Award from the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). Currently he is teaching in a full load of graduate courses and seeing clients in his private practice. In addition, Dr. Zhang frequently gives presentations and conducts counseling training workshops internationally.