School-Based Family Counseling Practices: A National Survey Of School Counselors, School Psychologists, And School Social Workers

Upon entering the doctoral program in counselor education, my worldview was expanded.As a result of being introduced to family systems and ecological theories and training, my paradigm shifted from that of a more traditional linear, cause and effect perspective to a more global systems perspective.The epiphany that resulted is best summed up by a quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes: "Man's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions."I wish to acknowledge the following people who in their own special ways brought me through this enlightening and rewarding, but sometimes painful growth experience.First, I thank Dr. Victoria Foster, director of the counselor education program, my advisor, and committee chairperson, for providing immersion into the necessary learning experiences to make possible my worldview transformation.In addition, her knowledge of family systems counseling, ability to lead, and steadfastness helped ensure my educational goals were met from beginning to end.I would also like to thank Dr. Thomas Ward, who from the very first research and statistics class, made this subject interesting, understandable, and relevant.He gave me assurance in his own subtle way that I could undertake this research project and maneuver through its many challenges.I am thankful, too, for Dr. Lynn Pelco's scholastic and painstaking review of my writings from beginning to end.She provided the oversight guidance (which was referred to as "the helicopter approach") through this sometimes "feeling lost in the forest" process.