Psychological counsellors awareness of cognitive biases

A qualitative study based on vignettes

Bibliographic Data

ID21516625
AuthorsZeyneb Güç (0009-0006-6706-3569, Marmara University, corresponding author), Ali Özdemir (0000-0001-6089-1966, Marmara University)
Year2026
Pages1-15
Publication date2026-02-16
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueBritish Journal of Guidance and Counselling (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0306-9885 • E-ISSN: 1469-3534
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/03069885.2026.2623164
OpenAlexW7129099756
LanguageEN
References cited61

Psychological counsellors, as part of their professional roles, make many decisions every day, and these decisions often directly impact the client's development. Awareness of cognitive biases that may unconsciously shape these decisions is essential for effective and ethical practice. However, limited qualitative research has examined how counsellors recognize, interpret, and evaluate such biases. This study explored counsellors’ perceptions of three structured bias types –confirmation, anchoring, and status quo– through vignette scenarios. Using a phenomenological design, the vignettes were presented to active counsellors, followed by semi-structured interviews. The findings suggest that participants were generally able to recognize various cognitive biases presented in the scenarios and acknowledged their potential impact on decision-making processes. Additionally, some participants shared personal experiences that illustrated the practical relevance of these biases. Results highlight the need to integrate bias-awareness competencies into professional counsellor education alongside ethical principles, enhancing decision-making quality and safeguarding client welfare

Cognition · Cognitive restructuring · Perception · Qualitative analysis · Qualitative research · Anxiety, Depression, Psychometrics, Treatment, Cognitive Processes · Counseling Practices and Supervision · Psychological Treatments and Assessments

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