2012

Counselors should understand and appreciate the unique rural context and be prepared to cope with the challenges of rural practice (Hovestadt, Fenell, & Canfield, 2002; Morrissette, 2000). But are counselors prepared for rural practice? Schank (1998) pointed out that “hearing directly from rural counselors is the essential factor in accurately addressing relevant issues” (p. 281). No current researchers have specifically asked professional counselors in rural school and mental health settings for their recommendations for training. We think this is important because of our own experience as rural counselors. In this qualitative study, we explored the perceptions of rural school and mental health counselors and we asked for their recommendations for preparation. We use quotes from those counselors to illustrate their perceptions of rural counseling practice and recommendations for training rural counselors.