The Systems Approach and Counselor Education: Basic Features and Implications1

Abstract

Radical changes in contemporary society are altering the lives of individuals in pervasive ways. Counselors are typically oblivious to these revolutionary changes due, in part, to inadequate and outdated professional education. Counseling viewed as a complex of social‐psychological processes — as an applied behavioral science — needs the powerful framework provided by a “systems approach.” A system is viewed as a structure which functions as a whole due to the interdependence of its parts. A systems approach in counselor education emphasizes how specific training components can be combined most effectively and efficiently to produce outcomes stated in terms of trainee behaviors (performance). Basic characteristics of a systems approach include: (a) behaviorally stated performance objectives; (b) careful attention to relation of components; (c) information flow and feedback mechanisms; and (d) man‐machine combinations. Models such as flow charts and simulation techniques are also typically involved. A systems approach, it is argued, will encourage the asking of more relevant and answerable questions. Although it may be viewed by some as too scientific, mechanistic, or complicated, a systems perspective holds the promise of more effectively preparing counselors for contemporary clients.