Counseling Theories and Case Conceptualization

One of the aspects of this textbook that I most appreciate is that Dr. Flynn embraces action as a scholar by integrating the most relevant and impactful theoretical practices, tackling developing trends such as telebehavioral health, and challenging us, as readers, to apply complex theoretical constructs from an intersectional, culturally responsive, and social justice paradigm. This is not a reimagining of the traditional counseling theories textbooks from 10 years ago but rather an act of evolution and engagement captured in the immediate assertion of social justice–oriented theories.


Nicole R. Hill


Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs


Professor, Counselor Education


Shippensburg University


Helps future counselors apply key theoretical constructs to real-world scenarios through session transcripts and detailed case conceptualizations


For students enrolled in master’s and advanced doctoral programs, this groundbreaking textbook blends theoretical insight and practical application. Woven throughout is a focus on the multiple levels of diversity, intersectionality, and identity that individuals embody and the skills and interventions necessary to produce positive outcomes. The book is distinguished by the inclusion of Voices from the Field, digital video interviews with 12 expert practitioners of leading theories. These practitioners, representing different contextual backgrounds and intersectional identities, share their perspectives and experiences on how to best use a particular theory to help marginalized communities who have experienced discrimination.


All theory-based chapters provide readers with case conceptualizations, session transcripts, and videos of Voices from the Field. Additionally, all chapters include learning objectives, chapter summaries, and student activities. Within each chapter, students will learn theory-aligned assessment instruments that resonate with clients’ needs and acquire proficiency in an eclectic array of techniques derived from both classic and contemporary counseling theories. The book innovatively applies techniques and skills to pressing issues, such as racism, discrimination, and inequity, through adept application of theory to empower healing and transformation. Instructors will also have access to a full suite of ancillaries, including an Instructor Manual, Test Bank, and chapter PowerPoints. Purchase includes online access via most mobile devices or computers.


Key Features:





Mapped to the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) 2016 and 2024 standards

Examines nuances of 36 counseling theories, new and emerging counseling theories, and describes 24 theoretically congruent assessment instruments

Includes 12 digitally recorded Voices from the Field interviews that showcase first-person accounts from diverse clinicians working with marginalized communities, people of color, LGBTQIA+ clientele, and other underrepresented populations

Contains detailed information about the profession’s unique theoretical history, leaders, legacies, waves of philosophical and political change, and practice-based skills

Incorporates information needed to fully understand how counseling theories make meaning of mental health issues, human development, and client and counselor therapeutic roles

Chapters include an examination of the findings of contemporary theory-based research

Demonstrates the use of theoretical and atheoretical case conceptualization and skills using the same reoccurring case

Provides session transcripts for each theoretical chapter demonstrating in-depth examples of theory-based skills