Even with a rich history demonstrating how complex behaviors are acquired, traditional psychological domains are
still not well represented in behavior analytic literature (Dougher & Hackbert, 2000). This paper will briefly present
some of the reasons why behavior analysts might be reluctant to foray into traditional “counseling” areas. Next, the
traditional counseling process will be defined, followed by ways in which the characteristics and processes of
traditional counseling can be explained based on the principles of behavior and by using behavior analytic terms.
Finally, this paper will present some traditional counseling programs that adhere to, or are based in, behavioral
psychology and will offer some suggestions for areas of future research