Life Balance for Counselors-in-Training: An Interpretative Phenomenological Investigation

Authors

Corey Olver, Immaculata UniversityFollow

Author Biography

Corey Olver has served as the graduate music therapy program director at Immaculata University since 2018. Corey's practice and teaching is rooted in dual music therapy and mental health counseling. She earned a master’s degree in music therapy from Immaculata University and a PhD from the University of the Cumberlands in Counselor Education and Supervision. She is a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, an approved clinical supervisor, and a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers. With a belief that the best classroom instruction is informed by an active clinical practice, Corey balances her teaching at Immaculata with directing the Adjunctive Therapy department at Northbrook Behavioral Health Hospital in Blackwood, NJ. Corey has presented at conferences and organizations on advanced counseling skills, creative arts therapy leadership, burnout and self-care, and mindfulness.

Document Type

Article

Keywords

life balance, wellness, counselor education, qualitative methods

Subject Area

Counselor Education

Abstract

Life balance is an important yet understudied construct for counselors-in-training (CITs). Pursuing a graduate degree in counseling involves an investment of time and resources that may increase stress and adversely affect CIT wellbeing. This study explores the experience of ten CITs as they navigated life balance during their education. Analysis revealed that life balance was challenging as CITs managed their educational, personal, and work demands. Key findings reveal that satisfaction with life balance is related to alignment between real and ideal activity engagement, that students made important sacrifices to maintain balance, and their educational experience contributed to life balance perception. Findings reveal intersections between life balance and CIT self-exploration and identity development. Implications for CITs and counselor educators are discussed.

Public Significance Statement

This study addresses the critical yet often overlooked issue of life balance among counselors-in-training (CITs). By exploring the experiences of ten CITs, this research highlights the difficulties in managing educational, personal, and work demands. This research underscores the importance of life balance for CITs, providing valuable insights for both CITs and counselor educators to enhance training and support systems.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.70013/4enep04c

Recommended Citation

Olver, C. (2025). Life balance for counselors-in-training: An Interpretative Phenomenological Investigation. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 19(4), 1-21.