U10A1 DevelopingProfessionalIdentity.docx COUN5004 Developing Professional Identity COU

U10A1 DevelopingProfessionalIdentity.docx  COUN5004  Developing Professional Identity  COUN5004 – Survey of Research in Human Development for Professional Counselors  Developing Your Professional Identity  The study of counseling has evolved over many years and with the input of researchers spanning many experiences and educational backgrounds.  In this course, perspectives on the roles of counselors in different capacities were explored, revealing differences in professions and the common goals among all counselors who share a professional counseling identity. This paper will outline some of the differences between these roles, my own professional counseling  identity and its development, professional counseling associations which provide resources and support in continuing counselor education, and the impact of technology in the counseling field. I also discussed the changes in my own perception of the counseling field and how my views have changed over the span of this course.  References to research backing claims will be provided, and views from professionals in the field will be presented.  Differences in Two Counseling Specializations  At the conclusion of this program, I will be pursuing a role as a mental health counselor. My experiences as a teacher and educational background in educational leadership have given me great insight into the role of a school counselor. While the two careers share some commonalities, the role of a school counselor covers guidance when choosing classes and applying for colleges