Advisor
Cardona, Vilma
Committee Member
Helm, Heather
Committee Member
Gonzalez, David
Committee Member
Murza, Kimberly
Department
College of Education and Behavioral Sciences; Applied Statistics and Counselor Education
Institution
University of Northern Colorado
Type of Resources
Text
Place of Publication
Greeley (Colo.)
Publisher
University of Northern Colorado
Date Created
12-2019
Extent
308 pages
Digital Origin
Born digital
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.
Degree type
EdD
Degree Name
Doctoral
Local Identifiers
Mack_unco_0161D_10802.pdf
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by the author.
