A Meta-Study of Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy: An Analysis of Publication Characteristics in Articles From 2000 to 2019

Authors

  • Karishma Katrak Vanderbilt University
  • Emily S. Olsen Vanderbilt University
  • Bradley T. Erford Vanderbilt University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5891-5770
  • Catherine Y. Chang Georgia State University
  • Jordana Saks University of British Columbia
  • Lexa Villete University of British Columbia

Abstract

Publication patterns in articles appearing in Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy (CJCP) from 2000 to 2019 were reviewed. Trends in author characteristics (e.g., sex, work setting) and article content (e.g., topic, methodology, participants, design, statistics) were analyzed in 5-year periods (i.e., 2000–2004, 2005–2009, 2010–2014, 2015–2019). Women, authors affiliated with universities, and authors residing in Canada were the major contributors during this period. Overall, there was an increase in research-focused articles, specifically qualitative designs, now accounting for most research articles published in CJCP. Data analysis sophistication decreased significantly, while reports of study effect sizes, reliability/dependability, and validity/trustworthiness increased significantly. This meta-study helps readers better understand the history, trajectory, and scope of author and article characteristics to address quality practices and socio-cultural issues within the profession. It also substantiates the conclusion that CJCP is publishing articles consistent with its mission and stated purpose.

Author Biographies

  • Karishma Katrak, Vanderbilt University

    Karishma K. Katrak, M.Ed., is a graduate of the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University.

  • Emily S. Olsen, Vanderbilt University

    Emily S. Olson, M.Ed., is a graduate of the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University.

  • Bradley T. Erford, Vanderbilt University

    Bradley T. Erford, Ph.D., is a professor in the human development counselling program in the Department of Human and Organizational Development in the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University.

  • Catherine Y. Chang, Georgia State University

    Catherine Y. Chang is a professor and director of international programs in the College of Education and Human Development at Georgia State University.

  • Jordana Saks, University of British Columbia

    Jordana Saks, M.Ed., is a graduate of the counselling psychology program in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education in the School of Education at the University of British Columbia.

  • Lexa Villete, University of British Columbia

    Lexa Villette, M.Ed., is a graduate of the counselling psychology program in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education in the School of Education at the University of British Columbia.

Downloads

Published

2026-05-11

Issue

Vol. 60 No. 1 (2026): Regular issue

Section

Articles/ Articles

License

Copyright is retained by the Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy.