Counselling Psychology Quarterly, December 2007; 20(4): 401–416 COUNSELLING IN ACTION Understanding the role of hope in counselling: Exploring the intentional uses of hope DENISE LARSEN 1 , WENDY EDEY 2 , & LENORA LEMAY 2 1 University of Alberta, and 2 Hope Foundation of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Abstract In this paper we look at various conceptual models of hope and research evidence for the integral role that hope plays in counselling. We recognize hope as a dynamic process during which counsellor and client interact in ways that can be mutually influencing and we review research that explores this reciprocal process. A model for the intentional use of hope in counselling that recognizes both implicit and explicit approaches is offered. Metaphors for hope-work that position and re-position both counsellor and client in ways that may foster hope are explored. Finally, we provide suggestions for initiating conversations in which hope can be an explicit therapeutic focus. Keywords: hope, counselling, counselling process, counselling psychology, discourse The counselling relationship offers a partnership that has the potential to inspire hope and to develop courage to deal with life transitions. (Dufrane & Leclair, 1984, p. 34) Counselling provides a space vital to supporting life, growth, and healing. It is a space within which hope is often sought in the face of an uncertain future. Awareness of the importance of hope in general has led to a virtual explosion in hope research over the past 20 years (Eliott, 2005) with increasing evidence of the therapeutic benefits of hope in various health care contexts. The role of hope in counselling practice has also received attention. Specifically, it has been suggested that hope plays an integral role in client healing (Menninger, 1959; Monk, Winslade, Crocket, & Epston, 1997; Yalom, 1998) as well as practitioner experience and intervention (Jevne, 2005; Snyder, 1995). While the importance of hope in counselling practice has received support from practitioners and researchers for many years, research into hope and the counselling process is in its very early stages. Explicit discussion and exploration of the practice of hope has Correspondence: Denise Larsen, Phd, RPsych, Associate Professor, Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G5, Canada. Tel: þ1 780 492 5897. E-mail: denise.larsen@ualberta.ca ISSN 0951-5070 print/ISSN 1469-3674 online ß 2007 Taylor & Francis DOI: 10.1080/09515070701690036