Introduction to the Helping Professions

Danica G. Hays, Ph.D. is Professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with expertise in counselor education, multicultural research, and workforce development. The American Counseling Association has recognized her nationally as an ACA Fellow, as well as presented her awards for her research and advocacy as a counselor educator. She also received the ACES Legacy Award. Heather Dahl-Jacinto, Ph.D. is Associate Professor, Associate Chair, and Counseling Program Coordinator at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She holds a Ph.D. in counseling, specializing in qualitative research and supervision, from Old Dominion University. Her expertise is in mental health and includes crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and mental health education.

"Introduction to the Helping Professions: Core Concepts in Human and Social Service Fields by Danica Hays and Heather Dahl-Jacinto offers a comprehensive and accessible foundation for students entering the human services field. Grounded in core competencies and real-world application, the text equips emerging professionals with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework essential for effective practice. Ideal for introductory courses, it serves as both a practical guide and a conceptual roadmap for those beginning their careers in the helping professions." Mark Rehfuss, Old Dominion University "Hays and Dahl-Jacinto have written the authoritative textbook for Human Services training programs, providing a comprehensive and detailed exploration of Human Services, Social Work, and Counseling professions and practices. Students are grounded in essential concepts for addressing individual and systemic behavioral health and related concerns, while supporting the development of their professional identity, self-care, and overall wellness. It will certainly be a resource for students well into their careers." Michael Brubaker, University of Cincinnati "This book is a comprehensive introduction to the world of human services. It covers various aspects of helping others and self-understanding and guides students who aspire to pursue a career in service. I would consider it a core text for my introductory human services courses." Tam Villar, University of Nevada, Las Vegas "Drs. Hays and Dahl-Jacinto have written a strong foundational text for undergraduate students in human services and social work. While the work is detailed and aligns with accreditation requirements in both disciplines, the text is also approachable and engaging. From the moment the authors invite students to create their own Career Vision Board the reader is drawn in. The integration of Case Studies, Career Toolkits, and in-depth reflection questions make the text an impressive tool for student learning. The emphasis on advocacy amidst increasingly challenging funding environments is useful, too. This is a text that I will be using in my own introductory courses." James Ruby, California State University, Fullerton "Hays & Dahl-Jacinto have provided a comprehensive, yet manageable insight into the complicated connections and differences between the helping professions. Using historical analysis, cultural sensitivity, organized breakdowns, and meaningful exercises as a part of the exploration of psychology, counseling, social work, and human services, the text is bound to be a core method of engaging with any students with an interest in helping others in their future careers." Christopher Hall, University of North Georgia