Academic Recovery and Client Perceptions of Group Counselors

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between group counselor effectiveness (i.e., GPA change) and client perceptions of counselors, using semantic differential ratings. 67 probationary university students participarted in the short-term group counseling program. While this group approach was effective, the counselors were differentially effective. Differences in counselor effectiveness were significantly related to the client-perceived counselor qualities of optimism and responsibility. Results suggested that client perceptions may be useful indicators of a counselor's ability to create conditions necessary for change by clients.