ABSTRACT
This chapter is concerned with the contemporary identity of professional counselors: The Who of who we are. Psychologists have a graduate degree in psychology, and licensed psychologists typically have a degree in clinical, counseling, or school psychology. Professional counselors and others who work with mental disorders consult with psychiatrists who will diagnose, prescribe medications, and periodically evaluate treatment of their patients. Marriage and family counselors and therapists and clinical social workers are likely to take a systems approach to counseling. Counselors have the ability and training to look past outer imperfections. Effective counselors understand that an individual’s humanity is more important than whatever external factors, such as looks or social standing or behavior, make up that individual. Counselors value, appreciate, and accept differences among and between people with regard to culture, ethnicity, age, ability, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation. Counselors realize that fixed and preconceived ideas can affect clients and counseling outcomes.
