A Cluster-Analytic Investigation of Subtypes of Adult Career Counseling Clients: Toward a Taxonomy of Career Problems

Abstract

Two hundred and seventy-eight adults who ranged in age from 18 to 69 years and were voluntarily in career counseling completed measures pre- and postcounseling to assess career-related variables (e.g., vocational identity) and psychological issues that may affect career concerns (e.g., level of psychological distress). Participant-clients received 1 to 14 sessions of individual career counseling, according to the need of each participant. The counselors were trained to use a holistic method of career counseling that emphasized the importance of considering career and psychosocial concerns together in working with the client. Using cluster analysis, four distinct types of career counseling clients were identified that provides an initial taxonomy of career problems with adult career clients. Pre- and postcounseling differences among clusters were examined. Implications of the findings for career counseling practice and further research are discussed.