Itinerant Versus Full-Time School Psychology Assignments and Implications for the Incorporation of Comprehensive Services

• In Event: Poster Session 2
  In Poster Session: Applications of Counseling Psychology in Practice

Abstract

School psychologists provide a variety of therapeutic, diagnostic and preventative services. However, prioritizing these services can prove to be problematic. As school districts wrestle with meeting the needs of a growing student population with intense social-emotional and behavioral disabilities, the itinerant assignment of school psychologists has remained largely stagnate. This study was designed to explore the relationship between full-time-equivalent (FTE) school psychologist assignments and the potential for increases in counseling services and conflict resolution training. Prior research suggested a positive relationship between full-time assignments and therapeutic supports, without directly ascertaining a positive correlation existed. The results of this study suggested evidence of a positive relationship between a FTE assignment and an increase in therapeutic and behavioral support services.

Author

• Sonja Hamilton, Notre Dame of Maryland University