Publisher's Synopsis
This work discusses ways to help councillors and mental health practitioners maximize their effectiveness when working with elderly, disabled, female or gay clients. It aims to sensitize councillors to the life experiences of these groups and reflect on their self-awareness and sensitivities.;The first three chapters describe the history and current state of society's treatment of people in the four groups. The rest of the text consists of readings that cover contemporary isues and current data on counselling diverse populations. The final chapter suggets new directions in counselling.