The field of counselling psychology is characterised by long roots in vocational psychology, prevention, primary interventions, advocacy, and an emphasis on individual differences. The field's fundamental philosophical approach has historically emphasised human strengths, well being, and prevention. Over the years, this approach has led to emerging emphases on cultural context, dimensions of diversity, the role of work in people's lives, and expanded roles for counselling psychologists in new settings, contexts, and with new populations.

This handbook will both highlight the practices in counselling psychology's traditional areas as well as in new and emerging areas.