Discusses trust as a basic issue for clients entering into the counseling process. Counselors need to recognize and respond to clients' ways of testing trust, such as requesting information, telling secrets, asking favors, and questioning the counselor's motives. (Author/JAC)

Describes transitional, derivative content, illustrated with two examples of the concept's implication for group work. Such content indicates heightened vulnerability and serves as a prelude to the participants' direct and explicit consideration of group issues. Four interventions for dealing with transitions (silence, reflection, interpretation,…

Describes a men's therapy group in which touch seems to facilitate self-disclosure and interpersonal communication. Claims despite cultural taboo for men to engage in physical touching, the act of embracing another man, in context of therapy group, does seem to encourage expression of deeper feelings and lessen the isolation men often feel in the…

Suggests that social workers develop a professional approach that includes the treatment of lesbian and gay clients within the context of the family. Discusses self disclosure, legal issues, family relationships, and friendship networks. (JAC)

The experience of a fifth-grade teacher shows how her identity as a lesbian makes a positive difference in the classroom, making her class a safe place in which students can question culture and take a stand. (SK)

Examines the process of requiring and evaluating personal growth group participation for students in counselor education programs. Discusses the key components in the dilemma of protecting privacy while evaluating competencies, including ethical practices and program alternatives to avoid evaluation. Proposes a model that will enable participation…