Counselor as Scholar Practitioner
Jean Berry
Walden University

Counselor as Scholar Practitioner
Sheperis, Young, & Daniels (2010) explain that research is a method of searching for the truth by beginning with questions. The value of research lies in its ability to guide professionals in the treatment of clients. As scholar practitioners in the field of counseling, it is crucial that we remain viligant in our commitment to understanding and participation in research. This commitment allows us as scholar practitioners to stay on focused on counseling as a profession with all of its obligations as well the needs of our clients.
Role of Research in Counseling
Appropriate and relevant research is critical in establishing dependable treatment protocols and program productiviness. It is essential as counselors to employ evidence-based treatments, allowing the counseling profession the ability to develop and grow to help its clients in an appropriate manner (Sheperis, Young & Daniels, 2010). Empirically validated achievements and efficacy are of the utmost value to professionals in the counseling field (Bradley, Sexton, & Smith, 2005). By lacking successful documentation from methods proven through research programs regarding intervention and treatment will fail to meet a positive evaluation and outcome (Astramovich & Coker, 2007).
Role of Scholar Practitioner Model
The Vail model, otherwise known as the scholar practitioner model, focuses on educating the practitioner on the clinical aspects in their chosen field. It allows for the student to embrace the comprehension and conclusions related to academic training. This scholar practioner model instructs and trains a student on the value of gaining a full understanding of a topic through a clinical research setting. Sheperis, Young & Daniels (2010) explain that research is the process by which hypotheses are tested and proved or disapproved through data collection and analysis. This concept and practice allow for proven findings and facts to be shared with the counseling community. Research by the scholar practioner gives the field of counseling data and knowledge to help clients meet their needs clinically. Research provides a solid foundation to support the work the counselor does with clients.
Implications of Use
What value does research have in regard to working with clients? Being aware of the interventions that are most effective is a substantial and noteworthy benefit to professionals in the mental health field (Bradley, Sexton, & Smith, 2005). Reseach gives the counselor the information necessary to make informed discissions regarding client care. Addressing client’s needs are the reason treatment and outcomes are studied. The shared purpose in treatment is generating measureable change. With no means of measuring change there is no significant value in using a therapeutic intervention with a client. We are