The Counselor and Preventive Psychiatry

Abstract

The counselor, in addition to his other important functions, is a prominent member in the front line of defense in the program of preventive medicine directed against the major problem of emotional illness. He may have the opportunity and important responsibility of initially evaluating the individual and problem posed. The counselor is not trained to be an expert diagnostician or to provide intensive psychotherapy. He should, however, be able to assess the degree of psychological impairment present or have a suspicion that a disease of organic etiology may underlie the behavioral disturbance manifested by the client. If indicated, he should initiate referral to appropriate other professional persons and/or agencies to allow prompt diagnosis, therapy, and, hopefully, early rehabilitation.