Diversity and Equity in Rehabilitation Counseling Professional Associations: An Evaluation of Current Perspectives and Future Directions

Abstract

Historically, research on professional association consolidation in the rehabilitation counseling profession has not been inclusive of issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). There is a long history of professional associations in rehabilitation counseling struggling to meet the diversity needs of professionals within the field. It is essential for the viability of the profession and its associations that DEI is always present in such conversations. The current study analyzed the data from 613 qualitative responses to a prompt about whether participants would like to see an organization focused on multicultural diversity and equity included in a hypothetical, consolidated professional association in rehabilitation counseling. Implications for professional association leadership, educators, and researchers are discussed.