International Counseling Advocacy: Exploring the Attention toward International Counseling in US Journals through Content Analysis

Mental health needs have received increased attention throughout the world, most notably in response to the impact of global events, such as pandemics and other world crises. Professional counselors offer a unique position to contribute to global mental health needs and to advocate for counseling in ways that advance the profession globally. This study reviews counseling themes internationally within the framework of multicultural competency, advocacy, and social justice, which remain areas of focus in the United States of America (US). Researchers utilized a content analysis approach to investigate the level of attention international counseling issues have received among key US professional counseling journals. Core themes identified among the journals included attention toward international students, country-specific counseling history, client cultural identity, career counseling, multicultural competence, international counseling students, and mental health practice. Practical applications for increasing international cultural competence, supporting international students, addressing career support, and advancing professional development throughout the world reflect tangible recommendations.