Outcomes of a Statewide Advocacy Event.

Professional advocacy is essential in the counseling profession. Using quantitative and qualitative data, this study investigated outcomes of a one-day statewide Chi Sigma Iota chapter meeting focused on professional advocacy. Findings showed that while a single advocacy training was not effective in significantly increasing participants’ advocacy competency, it did contribute to increased levels of competency and enhanced knowledge, attitudes, and motivation related to engaging in professional advocacy according to participants’ reports. Analysis of focus group data resulted in five themes that describe how the training influenced participants: (a) professional advocacy knowledge gained, (b) change in attitude towards professional advocacy, (c) motivation to take action, (d) professional advocacy training needs, and (e) barriers to professional advocacy development. Suggestions for future research and advocacy trainings are discussed.