Written specifically for trainee and practising counsellors who intend to carry out research and for counsellors who want to use research findings in order to improve their practice, this book is the first practical, all-encompassing introduction to the strategies employed in counselling and psychotherapy research. Taking an interdisciplinary approach to counselling, the book guides the reader through the principles and the practice of undertaking a successful research project, describing how to locate, understand and critique relevant literature and how to gain access to useful research tools. John McLeod illustrates how to design and implement an effective study plan and gives a detailed account of the most useful research strategies, incorporating careful consideration of ethical issues at all stages of the research process. He goes on to discuss the dissemination of research findings and reporting of results. In addition, approaches to designing and carrying out research into the outcomes and processes of counselling are examined in detail. John McLeod stresses that research has a major role to play in developing services that are effective in helping clients. He places a special emphasis on qualitative and case-study approaches and encourages a critical appreciation of other methodological issues. Designed to make research more relevant and accessible, Doing Counselling Research will be an invaluable guide for all counselling and psychotherapy students and practitioners.