Advocating for the counseling profession in Canada

Professional identity development is essential for the advancement and recognition of the profession. This quantitative study examined the professional counselor identity (PCI) of clinicians trained and practicing in the United States and Canada. Using a valid instrument to assess PCI, data were collected from 125 graduates of a counselor education program serving both countries. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and the instrument. Independent samples t-tests and MANOVA were conducted to compare PCI subscale scores by country of practice and licensure type. Results indicated significant similarities in PCI across most subscales between U.S. and Canadian counselors. Additionally, licensure type significantly influenced scores on the Professional Values and Engagement Behaviors subscales. These findings underscore the need for continued advocacy and regulatory clarity in Canada to support a unified and robust counselor identity. Implications for international counselor identity development and professional advocacy are discussed.