Research and Scholarly Activity

Engaging in research and scholarly activity has been a key part of my growth as a counselor-in-training. In the artifact Literature Review: The Use of Telehealth in Counseling, I examined the expanding role of telehealth in delivering counseling services, with a focus on its applications for autism spectrum disorder assessment, multicultural considerations, and ethical concerns. This project allowed me to evaluate evidence-based findings and explore how telehealth is shaping the future of clinical practice. The process directly reflects CACREP Standard 2.F.8.a, which emphasizes the importance of research in advancing the counseling profession, and 2.F.8.b, which requires identification of evidence-based counseling practices.

 

Through this work, I gained a deeper appreciation for how research informs clinical decision-making and enhances client care. Reviewing studies on provider satisfaction and ethical considerations revealed both the benefits and challenges of telehealth. These findings reinforced the ethical responsibility described in the ACA Code of Ethics, Section C.2.e, which stresses the need for counselors to stay informed of current research and use practices that benefit clients while minimizing harm. By critically analyzing the literature, I learned to weigh the strengths and limitations of telehealth and consider how best to integrate it responsibly into practice.

 

Instructor feedback was especially valuable in shaping my approach to this paper. I was encouraged to expand the range of peer-reviewed sources I consulted, which pushed me to engage with a broader body of research and refine my academic writing. This revision process helped me grow in my ability to synthesize diverse findings into clear, clinically relevant insights.

 

Overall, this experience strengthened my ability to engage with scholarly work, apply evidence-based practices, and uphold the professional responsibility of grounding counseling in sound research. These skills will continue to guide my ongoing development as a reflective and competent practitioner.