Behavioral Consultation

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Consultation is defined as an indirect problem-solving and decision-making model that involves the cooperative efforts of a consultant (specialist) and consultees (teachers, parents, caregivers) to clarify primary needs and issues and to develop, implement, and evaluate appropriate strategies for intervention. (Richard & Smoot, 2000). Over the last few years or so, behavioral consultation has become increasingly studied, and advances in the definitions, standardization, psychometric criteria, training, and generalizability of consultation research, methodology, and outcomes for this type of consultation are now documented. Behavioral, mental health, and organizational development are the three general models of consultation. Behavioral consultation …show more content…

In a broadened “eco-behavioral” model, however, a consultant may focus on congruence among caregivers and the “match” within and across environments as important contributors to a child’s functioning.” (Richard & Smoot 2000). The consultation procedure includes services that are implemented through structured interactions among consultants and consultees. The role of a consultant is to provide interventions to help guide the consultee, and the consultee role is to implement the interventions provided for the client. It is imperative to include the client in the treatment plan to as it is their responsibility to participate in the …show more content…

In a review of consultation outcome literature, Sheridan, Welch, and Orme (1996) reported that 76% of the studies reviewed demonstrated at least some positive outcomes. Nearly all (95%) of the studies using behaviorally based models reported positive outcomes. (Richard & Smoot). Researchers, Anderson, Kratochwill, & Bergan, 1986; Bergan & Tombari, 1975, 1976 have found that the most important process variables in consultation are accurate problem identification, and the manner in which the consultant communicates. Consultees appear to prefer “common sense” language to psychological jargon (Witt, Moe, Gutkin, & Andrews,

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