A risk and prevention counselor training program model: theory and practice.

The need for training mental health counselors in risk and prevention is presented, and justification of the development of an innovative and integrative prevention training program is offered. Theoretical underpinnings that connect the counseling discipline to the field of prevention are described. A risk and prevention training model from Harvard Graduate School of Education is presented as a case example that illustrates the integration of prevention practices into a counselor training curriculum. Prevention research initiatives are described as vehicles for interactive learning and training. Challenges and future opportunities for programmatic implementation are reviewed with attention towards systematic planning and program design.