Analyzing Outcome Research in ACA Counseling Journals: A Content Analysis

Authors

• Lisa Rickman, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Marangelie Velez, University of Central FloridaFollow
• Serene HasanFollow
• Elizabeth LugoFollow
• Sejal Barden, University of Central FloridaFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

0009-0001-5109-3791

Author Biography

Lisa Rickman completed her doctoral degree in Counselor Education at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, certified in perinatal mental health, and a former Exceptional Student Education teacher and high school counselor for Volusia County Schools. Her research interests include perinatal mental health issues, Black maternal health, multiculturalism in K-12 schools and school counselors’ roles in advocacy. Lisa is an active member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), the Florida Counseling Association (FCA), the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), and Postpartum Support International (PSI).

Document Type

Empirical Research Article

Keywords

content analysis, outcome research, counseling outcomes, ethics, evidence-based practices

Subject Area

Counseling, Counselor Education, Mental Health Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, School Counseling

Abstract

To assess the current state of evidence-based practices within counseling and counselor education, researchers conducted a comprehensive content analysis of outcome research published in counseling journals. Using quantitative methods to examine publication trends and frequency, the study reviewed 5,266 articles across 21 journals over a ten-year span (2013–2023), identifying 405 outcome studies for inclusion. Findings revealed a substantial gap in outcome research within professional counseling, particularly with respect to methodological diversity and representation of diverse populations. The authors emphasize the need for counselor educators and practitioners to prioritize outcome research to enhance clinical effectiveness and strengthen the profession. Furthermore, the authors emphasize the importance of integrating principles of implementation science to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based interventions are effectively translated into routine clinical settings. To position counseling as a leading contributor to evidence-based mental health practice, the study underscores the necessity of sustained, rigorous outcome research that not only informs best practices but also reinforces the profession’s relevance within the broader behavioral health landscape.

Keywords: content analysis, outcome research, counseling outcomes, ethics, evidence-based practices

Recommended Citation

Rickman, L., Velez, M., Hasan, S., Lugo, E., & Barden, S. (2026). Analyzing outcome research in ACA counseling journals: A content analysis. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 20(2), 1-13.