The third edition of A Brief Orientation to Counseling: Professional Identity, History, and Standards equips readers with the information and skills they need to develop their professional identity and succeed in their journey to becoming a capable and accomplished counselor.The book offers readers a concise and valuable overview of the history of the counseling profession, current trends, the characteristics of an effective counselor, and professional standards and ethics. It features coverage of professional counseling associations, the credentialing process, and the importance of cultural competence and advocacy in modern practice. Readers are encouraged to discover and nurture their professional identity, and are provided with sage advice for applying to graduate school and finding a job. Throughout, renowned author and counselor Edward Neukrug offers guidance and perspective gleaned from his personal experiences and professional career. Additionally, students are provided with meaningful self-reflection opportunities, hands-on experiential activities, and enlightening case studies to enrich their learning experience.The new edition features updated information regarding professional counseling associations, cross-cultural and social justice competence, ethical concerns, cutting-edge issues such as tele-mental health counseling, the 2016 CACREP standards, and more. A full set of ancillaries to assist in teaching is available, including a sample syllabus, exam questions, vignettes, ethical dilemmas, and videos, among other resources.A succinct yet impactful text, A Brief Orientation to Counseling is an essential resource for courses and programs in counseling.