First Advisor

Cardona, Vilma

Document Type

Dissertation

Date Created

12-2019

Department

College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Applied Psychology and Counselor Education, APCE Student Work

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of counselors providing counseling to adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Eleven professional counselors participated in the study from various regions of the United States. Four themes and 10 subthemes were found. The resulting themes discuss the counselor reactions, previous experiences with ASD, approaches used in counseling, and counselor self-care. The findings exhibit new evidence in the literature such as counselors’ emotional reactions to working with adults with ASD, challenges in balancing adult clients with ASD and their family members, and professional emotional boundaries used as a self-care tool. Implications are provided specific to counselor educators, counselor supervisors, and practicing counselors in the field. Recommendations include incorporating more education and exposure to individuals with ASD into counseling programs and increasing trainings and research on counseling adults with ASD.

Extent

308 pages

Local Identifiers

Mack_unco_0161D_10802.pdf

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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