Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Abstract

To my husband, Cameron P. Forte, for always being there to motivate me when I needed it the most, for being supportive, and most importantly for being patient with me throughout this entire process. To my parents, David L. Greene and Deborah A. Greene, and my sister, Jennifer N. Greene, for being positive and pushing me toward achieving my goals. v ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I have never had a more enjoyable learning experience as I have had throughout the course of this Master's program thanks to my committee chair, professor, and most importantly invaluable friend, Dr. Marlene Schommer-Aikins. I cannot thank you enough for dedicating countless hours teaching me, guiding me, being patient, and always making time to be my friend and mentor. Thank you for giving me that gentle push and motivating me when I struggled, for being understanding when I became overwhelmed, and for reminding me that I was always capable of more. You turned this potentially stressful process into a pleasant experience and made sure I never felt like I was in this alone. Truly, I cannot thank you enough. I couldn't have done this without you. I would also like to thank my committee members, Dr. Susan Bray and Dr. Kathy Strattman. Dr. Susan Bray, thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you and for imparting to me all of your invaluable knowledge on the school counseling profession. Most importantly, thank you for being so supportive, patient, and understanding throughout this entire process. Dr. Kathy Strattman, thank you for taking the time to be part of my committee. I truly appreciate your keen attention to detail and suggestions you have given me in writing this thesis.