Theoretical Paper - Considering a social justice agenda for counselling psychology in the UK

Abstract

Content & FocusThis paper considers what a ‘social justice agenda’ might mean for counselling psychology in the UK. It initially discusses what ‘social justice’ is, concluding that although a complete definition is not present within the field, conceptions of social justice generally focus on equity or equality for individuals in society in terms of access to a number of different resources and opportunities, the right to self-determination or autonomy and participation in decision-making, freedom from oppression, and a balancing of power across society. It then goes on to introduce the literature in the area of social justice within counselling psychology which has come from the US. Finally, it considers more explicitly what a consistent adoption of a social justice perspective would look like for UK counselling psychology by reviewing three areas of potential consideration: training issues; involvement in private practice; and involvement in the NHS.ConclusionsWhilst statements recognising the importance of social justice to counselling psychology would be welcome, changes to practice might also be necessary to uphold this consistently.