Article Database

Perceptions of the HS-BCP Credential: A Survey of Human Service Professionals

Abstract:

With the Human Services Board Certified Practitioner credential (HS-BCP) being a few years old, this article sought to obtain the current perception it by members of the National Organization of Human Services (NOHS). A survey of NOHS members suggests that respondents overwhelmingly heard of the credential, that 42% had obtained the credential, and that a large number who were not credentialed indicated a desire to obtain it. Perceived awareness of employers was also obtained from NOHS members, as well as differences as a function of demographics and the perceived value of the credential. In addition, respondents expressed their views regarding their preference toward using the NOHS or HSBCP code of ethics. Suggestions for increasing the visibility of the credential were made, and future directions of research related to the credential were suggested.

Human Service Students’ and Professionals’ Knowledge and Experiences of Interprofessionalism: Implications for Education

Abstract:

Interprofessionalism is an approach to delivering optimal client care in which providers from multiple professions work collaboratively on care teams. Human Service Professionals (HSPs) are generalists who frequently work together with professionals in related fields. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which HSPs and helping professionals in related fields have engaged in interprofessional experiences. Researchers also investigated the impact that having previous interprofessional experiences had on participants’ perceptions of interprofessionalism. Results revealed that professionals and students who had previous interprofessional experiences were significantly more likely to have positive perceptions about interprofessional cooperation. However, results also indicated that only a small proportion of HSPs and mental health professionals in related fields reported engaging in interprofessional experiences. Suggestions for how educators can infuse interprofessionalism into the curriculum for human services and related programs are provided.

Assessing Service Providers at LGBTQ-Affirming Community Agencies on Their Perceptions of Training Needs and Barriers to Service

Abstract:

Service providers (N = 109) at lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ)-affirming social service agencies were surveyed on their perceived training needs, experiences, and barriers to service access experienced by their clients. Hierarchical regression analysis identified that training experiences significantly influenced self-perceived competence, controlling for agency-related factors including the extent of perceived barriers to service. Findings are discussed with implications for training, practice, and future research.

Initial Assessment and Screening with LGBTQ Clients: A Critical Perspective

Abstract:

Counseling with people that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ), or who are otherwise nonheterosexual or cisgender identified, should be based on a critical approach to assessment. Although general competencies have been articulated, further guidance is needed to help counselors avoid hetero-normative and cisgender biases in their assessment practice. The authors provide recommendations, based on critical review of the literature, for how counselors can address biases in assessment and screening tools in work with LGBTQ clients.

Physical Activity and Its Correlates in Youth with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract:

Preliminary Validation of the Short Physical Performance Battery in Older Adults with Multiple Sclerosis: Secondary Data Analysis

Abstract:

Background

There are relatively few standard, objective measures for studying physical function among older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS), yet such measures are necessary considering the shift in prevalence and associated consequences of both MS and older age on physical function. We undertook a preliminary examination of the construct validity of Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores in older adults with MS based on an expected differential pattern of associations with measures of lower and upper extremity function.

Methods

The sample included 48 persons with MS aged 50 years and older who were enrolled in a pilot, randomized controlled trial of exercise training. Participants completed the SPPB and other objective and self-report measures of lower and upper extremity function as part of baseline testing.

Results

SPPB scores demonstrated strong associations with measures of lower extremity function (|r _s| = .66–.79), and weak associations with measures of upper extremity function (|r _s| = .03–.33).

Conclusions

We provide preliminary evidence that supports the validity of scores from the SPPB as a measure of lower extremity function for inclusion in clinical research and practice involving older adults with MS.

Randomized Controlled Trial of an e-Learning Designed Behavioral Intervention for Increasing Physical Activity Behavior in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract:

Feasibility study design and methods for Project GEMS: Guidelines for Exercise in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract:

Effects of a DVD-Delivered Exercise Intervention on Physical Function in Older Adults With Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract:

Levels and Rates of Physical Activity in Older Adults with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract:

There is much evidence supporting the safety and benefits of physical activity in adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) and recent evidence of beneficial effects on physical function in older adults with MS. However, there is very little known about physical activity participation in older adults with conditions such as MS. This study compared levels of physical activity (i.e., sedentary behavior, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)) and rates of meeting public health guidelines for MVPA (i.e., ≥30 min/day) among young (i.e., ages 20-39 years), middle-aged (i.e., ages 40-59 years) and older adults (i.e., ages ≥60 years) with MS. The sample included 963 persons with MS who provided demographic and clinical information and wore an accelerometer for a 7-day period. The primary analysis involved a between-subjects ANOVA on accelerometer variables (i.e., accelerometer wear time; number of valid days; sedentary behavior in min/day; LPA in min/day; and MVPA in min/day). Collectively, our data indicated that older adults with MS engaged in less MVPA and more sedentary behavior than middle-aged and young adults with MS. Such results highlight the importance of developing physical activity interventions as an effective means for managing the progression and consequences of MS in older adults.