Using Experiential Learning to Explore Help-Seeking Attitudes in Future Helping Professionals

Abstract

Experiential learning is the backbone to many social service collegiate programs. Furthermore, this type of learning offers students opportunities to gain insight and personal growth that cannot be achieved by didactic assignments. This study specifically examined undergraduate social work students who participated in their own personal counseling with graduate counselors-in-training (CITs). T-tests were used to assess the social work students’ attitude changes towards pursuing professional help in the future. Results indicated that there was a significant increase in students’ openness to seeking professional psychological help after engaging in counseling during their undergraduate program. Based on the results of this study, implications for experiential learning and cross-program collaboration are discussed.