Measuring Changes in Counselor Self-Efficacy: Further Validation and Implications for Training and Supervision

Abstract

This study examines the changes in counselor self-efficacy beliefs during training. For this purpose, the Counseling Self-Estimate Inventory (COSE), based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory (1986), was employed (Larson et al.,1992). Both global counselor self-efficacy measures as well as specific measures related to five areas of counseling (i.e., micro skills, process, handling difficult client behaviors, cultural competence, and awareness of values) were analyzed. A total of 20 first-year MA students in counseling psychology completed the COSE at two time intervals 8 weeks apart. Results show a significant increase in the overall measure of self-efficacy skills. We also found a significant increase in one of the factors, micro skills. Implications for training and supervision are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• COSE
• counselor education and supervision
• counselor self-efficacy
• efficacy beliefs
• impact of training

Notes

The terms therapist, counselor, practitioner, and clinician will be used interchangeably.