A highly collaborative effort, the third edition of this classic text brings together the latest developments in the evolving area of professional counseling. Presented in this edition are current issues regarding ethics and legal issues, multicultural and diverse populations, individual and group counseling, assessment and appraisal, career development, counseling theory and practice, research, and an orientation to the profession of counseling. This book is a rich compendium of information for students and professionals who are seeking an overview of the profession or an opportunity to review curricular content required for licensure, certification, or comprehensive examinations in counseling. This important resource offers clear and current information on all of the eight core areas required by CACREP, and an integrated review of the profession and the most recent empirical research. It is an ideal book for a first course in a counselor training program and as a review text concerning the profession. As such, the book was chosen for inclusion in the Official Study Course for the NCE (NBCC).