A peer-based reflexive study on counselor educator social justice advocacy

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of counselor educators who strive to integrate social justice advocacy (SJA) amidst systemic challenges. While SJA is an important function in the field, actualizing this vision often involves tension, resource strain, and professional risk. This study addresses the limited exploration of how counselor educators navigate SJA in real-world settings. Through peer-based reflexive group research, participants examined personal and institutional barriers to advocacy, including stereotype threat, marginalization, and performativity. Constructed themes revealed struggle, support, and strategy, highlighting both the challenges and the promise of integrating SJA into counselor education. Findings affirm the need for action-oriented counselor education training and reinforce the importance of relational and reflexive support structures. This study contributes practical implications for counselor educators seeking to reduce isolation, promote resilience, and meaningfully engage in SJA within institutions that may resist systemic change.