| The purpose of this study was to identify reasons for attrition in Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) Counselor Education and Supervision (CES) doctoral programs. This narrative inquiry research resulted in the identification of five reasons for attrition amongst the research participants: (a) lack of personal support, (b) lack of guidance or mentoring, (c) financial stressors, (d), family obligations, and (e) loss of motivation. This research focused specifically on former CES students who left their programs after significant progression in their program. Specifically, all participants had passed their comprehensive exam requirements.;Recommendations for incoming and current doctoral students included developing a personal support network, establishing relationships that offer guidance and mentoring, understanding the financial requirements throughout the doctoral program, and developing ways to keep motivated throughout the program and particularly during the dissertation phase. Recommendations for universities, programs, and faculty included developing guidance and mentoring programs, strengthening financial support of students, and implementing programs for students in the dissertation phase of their program to facilitate motivation and support. |
