Issues in Assessment and Treatment of Diverse Populations: Social Networks for Counseling Intervention The following presents a discussion of the use of social networks as a counseling intervention. The underlying premise of social networks and the effectiveness of their use for counseling diverse populations is presented.
Ashinger (1985) made the important point that counselors require all help possible to ensure optimal intervention. Social networks of clients improve outcomes of counseling. The social network of an individual refers to the group of people that are interrelated with the culture of the client. The total network includes resources that help with daily living as well as the working through of problems. Social support assists with relieving stress and resolving problems.
Ashinger (1985) pointed out that more and more counselors are using a situational diagnosis that includes an analysis of the environment and support groups. The underlying
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