CACREP Standards Discussion

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CACREP Standards Discussion

CACREP is an institution that accredits more than 906 doctoral and master’s degree programs in the field of counseling and specialties that are offered by 434 universities and colleges across the United States. It is both a status and process that indicates the commitment to the excellence of programs. The CACREP standards were drafted with the intention of clarifying and simplifying accreditation requirements and promoting a unified counseling profession. The CACREP accreditation process entails self-assessment of programs alongside an external review to know if program standards are met or not. To the members of the public, an accreditation status shows that a program successfully fulfils its commitment to attaining quality education.

One of the terms mentioned in the CACREP standards that I can identify as a strength for myself is section two that pertains to professional counseling identity. For me, this is my stronghold because I tend to understand apply the standards best in laying a foundation for the counseling as and the curriculum. This is a stronghold because, as a student I am actively involved in the counseling profession as evidenced in my participation in professional counseling organizations, including the American Counseling Association (ACA). Moreover, I participate in workshop and seminars and any other activities which contribute to professional and personal growth. Additionally, when it comes to the practicum bit of the counseling profession, I consider this s stronghold because I see it as an opportunity to put into practice the skills and knowledge gathered in the classroom sector. I also consider myself a professional which requires me to employ practical practice in my work. This includes maintaining professional behavior when dealing with clients and not engaging in romantic relationships with them (Lu, & Pillay, 2021). Also, I am good at maintaining secrecy as I realize that breaking client confidentiality is one of the gravest mistakes one can ever commit in the counseling practice.

The standard I hope to improve on is the standard pertaining to the learning environment. I could use a bit of improving in this regard as I struggle to coordinate with my instructors a times. CACREP standards mandate that all students that are in entry-level programs should be assigned an advisor during the duration of their program to help them with developing a plan for the study program (Akos & Duquette, 2022). As a student, I must collaborate with my advisors and instructors if I want to excel in the field. Without an advisor, I am likely to lose out on important elements of the practice. Having an experienced advisor in the counseling field is helpful as they have gone before me and are best placed to guide me to ensure I am successful because they know the ropes of the counseling profession.

References

Akos, P., & Duquette, K. (2022). Trends and Changes in School Counselor CACREP Standards in the United States. Journal of School-Based Counseling Policy and Evaluation, 4(1), 1-10.

Lu, H. T., & Pillay, Y. (2021). Examining the 2016 CACREP Standards: A National Survey.