Date of Conferral

12-19-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Counselor Education and Supervision

Advisor

Brian Hutchison

Abstract

Transitioning from childhood to adulthood is a challenging life experience, further intensified for individuals with psychiatric disorders. While strong social support serves as a key resilience factor, emerging adults with psychiatric disorders face unique challenges in addition to those encountered by their peers. This population is at heightened risk for adverse outcomes, including difficulty securing employment, a critical milestone for adult independence. Counselors play a pivotal role in supporting these individuals but often report feelings of inadequacy and reluctance to engage with this complex developmental stage. This qualitative hermeneutic phenomenology study explores the lived experiences of counselors who assist emerging adults with psychiatric disorders in achieving competitive employment. Using Gadamer’s philosophical framework, the study analyzed interviews with 10 counselors to uncover their perceptions and strategies. Data analysis revealed four central themes: Counselor Preparedness, Counselor Successes and Challenges, Impact of Counselors, and Adapted Counseling Skills and Techniques. The findings underscore the necessity of specialized training, robust support systems, and adaptive approaches in counseling practice. The study’s insights aim to foster positive social change by enhancing awareness of counselors' challenges and equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to better serve this vulnerable population. These improvements promise to benefit not only emerging adults but also the counselors dedicated to guiding them toward successful transitions.

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