Points out that there is a discrete population of midcareer, largely first-time mothers who seek some form of psychological help when they first return to work after childbirth. Reports that family-oriented conjoint counseling and self-help groups are effective forms of treatment for this population. (LLL)

Reviews the growth of self-help groups and the current status of the movement. Suggests ways in which counselors can draw upon such groups in their professional practicies. Includes suggestions for evaluating groups and resources on self-help groups. (Author/ABB)

Describes a program for families of handicapped children that features educational programs and parent and sibling support groups. Notes that parents and siblings involved in the mutual-help project have uncovered salient issues and have taken an active role in community education and advocacy. (Author/NB)

Argues that use of self-help audiocassette tapes in psychological counseling can accelerate the introduction of therapeutic ideas, promote continuity of counseling between sessions, and reinforce behavioral and attitudinal changes. Discussed rationale and description of a program in which this approach is used in brief counseling of college…

Describes the process by which one counseling center developed a series of self-help brochures. In addition to the intended service benefits to students, the brochures present a positive image of the counseling center to numerous campus constituencies. Discusses costs, benefits, and strategies for marketing the brochures. (Author)

Members of the Christian Association for Psychological Studies were surveyed to assess self-help book utilization. Self-help books were used with clients by 92% of respondents (N=243) some of the time. Differences in selection criteria and practices between master's and doctoral-level respondents are noted. Frequently used books are listed.…

Counselors can teach clients to acquire competence in self- instruction. The skills, knowledge, and attitudes that define such competence constitute a legitimate curriculum for counseling. A model of self-instruction is described and the use of this model by counselors to assist clients to develop as self-instructors is discussed and illustrated.…