Has Consultation Achieved Its Primary Prevention Potential?

Abstract

Since the practice of consultation first began, primary prevention has been posited as an important outcome. In this article the empirical basis for this element of consultation is examined. It is concluded that consultation's preventive benefits should not be oversold, as at this time there is only emerging evidence for this aspect of the process.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Sincere appreciation is extended to William P. Erchul for his insightful comments on an earlier draft of this article, as well as for the general influence he has had on my thinking about consultation. Helpful feedback was also provided by Denise Beers.

This article was originally published in The Journal of Primary Prevention, 15(3), 285?301. Copyright © 1995 Human Sciences Press, Inc. Reprinted with permission.