Counselor-in-Training Self-Efficacy When Working With Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Clients

Researchers highlighted a significant void in existing literature surrounding the preparation of counselors working with the transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) population. The problem addressed is the limited understanding of self-efficacy counselors-in-training (CIT) possess while working with TGNC clients. The purpose of this quantitative study rooted in self-efficacy theory was to examine the relationship between three independent variables: (a) the cumulative time the participant spent as a CIT, (b) the amount of training the CIT received specific to transcompetent counseling practices, and (c) a CIT’s competency in delivering transcompetent counseling, and the dependent variable: a CIT’s self-efficacy in providing transcompetent counseling. Data collection occurred using survey research and convenience sampling. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, the Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Affirmative Counseling Self-Efficacy Scale – Short Form, and the Gender Identity Counselor Competency Scale – Revised. Statistical models used included analysis of variance, simple linear regression, Pearson product-moment correlation, and multiple regression. Results indicated statistically significant relationships between time spent as a CIT, amount of transcompetent training received, a CIT’s competency in delivering transcompetent counseling, and the CIT’s self-efficacy in providing transcompetent counseling. Implications might lead counselor educators and supervisors to expand and refine educational and training opportunities for CITs to identify additional avenues to developing competence working with TGNC clients, leading to an increase of self-efficacy while serving the TGNC population in clinical settings