Help-seeking in counseling and clinical psychology: Three issues in help-seeking studies

Abstract

This article reviewed three help-seeking issues in counseling and in clinical psychology research: (1) help-seeking processes, (2) facilitation of help-seeking, and (3) help-seeking and adjustment. Based on a review of previous literature about help-seeking processes and the facilitation of help-seeking, the importance of integrating perspectives that combine theoretical models of help-seeking, factors influencing help-seeking, programs facilitating help-seeking, and clinical practice was indicated. With regard to help-seeking and adjustment, help-seeking may not always serve an adaptive function and practices that aim to facilitate help-seeking have several considerations. Finally, the conclusion of this article is that future studies should consider the impact of sociocultural factors on help-seeking.