Addressing Student Poverty Using the I-CARE Model in School Counselor Preparation

Abstract

ABSTRACT The I-CARE Model provides a guiding structure to consider poverty related factors and their impact on people living in poverty. I-CARE encourages counselor trainees to internally reflect on one’s own knowledge, experiences and unintended bias; develop strategies to cultivate relationships with clients; acknowledge realities of living in poverty; and explore interventions to remove barriers. We describe how the I-CARE model may be applied to training school counselors to serve students impacted by poverty. Implications of the model’s use in school counselor preparation are explored, including practical suggestions and directions for future research.