Why Researchers Choose Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology stands as a cornerstone in the field of counseling and psychological services, publishing rigorous empirical research that advances understanding and treatment of psychological disorders. Established in 1937 by the American Psychological Association, this journal has evolved into a premier outlet for studies on clinical interventions, psychopathology, and behavioral health outcomes. Researchers value its commitment to methodological excellence and real-world applicability, making it ideal for disseminating findings that influence practice and policy.
With a focus on experimental, correlational, and longitudinal designs, the journal prioritizes manuscripts that contribute novel insights into therapeutic processes and preventive strategies. Its broad appeal spans clinical psychologists, counselors, and mental health professionals seeking evidence-based advancements. The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures only the highest-quality work is published, enhancing the credibility of authors' contributions.
Key strengths include its emphasis on diverse populations and innovative methodologies, such as randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses. For those in counseling and psychological services, publishing here signals expertise and opens doors to collaborations and funding opportunities. The journal's integration of basic and applied science bridges theory and practice, fostering impactful scholarship.
As the field grapples with rising mental health challenges, the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology remains essential for addressing contemporary issues like trauma-informed care and digital interventions. Its historical depth, combined with forward-looking perspectives, positions it as a vital resource for researchers aiming to shape the future of psychological services.
To explore career paths in this domain, visit psychology jobs or check clinical psychology PhD programs. For academic planning, see the academic calendar.
Overview & History
The Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, often abbreviated as JCCP, was founded in 1937 under the auspices of the American Psychological Association. Initially focused on consulting psychology, it expanded to encompass clinical research as the field grew. Over decades, it has published seminal works on psychotherapy efficacy, diagnostic criteria, and behavioral therapies, influencing standards like those in the DSM.
Today, it maintains a quarterly publication schedule, featuring original articles, brief reports, and special sections on emerging topics. Its evolution reflects shifts in psychological science, from psychoanalytic roots to evidence-based practices. Researchers appreciate its archival role in documenting progress in counseling and psychological services.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal covers a wide array of topics within counseling and psychological services, emphasizing empirical studies on assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health issues. It welcomes research on adult, child, and adolescent populations, including cultural adaptations of interventions.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology | Studies on diagnosis, psychotherapy, and outcomes for disorders like depression and anxiety. |
| Counseling Psychology | Focus on career, multicultural, and positive psychology interventions. |
| Health Psychology | Behavioral medicine, adherence to treatment, and chronic illness management. |
| Psychopathology | Etiology, course, and epidemiology of psychological disorders. |
| Preventive Interventions | Community-based programs and early detection strategies. |
Interdisciplinary approaches integrating neuroscience or public health are encouraged, broadening its scope beyond traditional counseling.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 5.656 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 6.824 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 10.5 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 285 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics underscore the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance in counseling and psychological services.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide visibility. Key inclusions are PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. This coverage facilitates discoverability for researchers worldwide. For more on indexing, explore official journal homepage or Scopus.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, it offers subscription access with open-access options via APA's PsycOpen. Authors can choose gold open access by paying an article processing charge (APC) of $3,000. Traditional publication is free for accepted manuscripts, supported by institutional subscriptions. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies it as green for self-archiving. No page charges apply, making it accessible for counseling and psychological services scholars.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the APA's online portal at APA submission system. Manuscripts must adhere to APA style 7th edition, with a 12,000-word limit excluding references. Initial review takes 2-3 months, emphasizing ethical standards and originality. Prepare by reviewing guidelines on the academic writing tips page.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Terence J. G. Tracey, includes experts from top institutions like Arizona State University and the University of Wisconsin. Associate editors specialize in areas such as child clinical psychology and diversity issues, ensuring balanced oversight. Their collective experience enhances the journal's quality in counseling and psychological services.
Why Publish in Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology?
Publishing here amplifies research impact through high visibility and citation potential. It attracts interdisciplinary audiences, fostering collaborations. For career advancement, see Rate My Professor for faculty insights. The journal's prestige aids tenure and grant applications in psychological services.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Abnormal Psychology | 5.077 | Psychopathology | APA |
| Clinical Psychology Review | 12.8 | Reviews and meta-analyses | Elsevier |
| Psychotherapy Research | 3.2 | Process-outcome studies | Taylor & Francis |
| Journal of Counseling Psychology | 3.8 | Counseling interventions | APA |
JCCP distinguishes itself with a balance of clinical and consulting emphases, offering broader applicability than peers.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
Strengthen submissions with clear hypotheses, diverse samples, and robust statistics. Address reviewer feedback promptly. For preparation, consult psychology PhD programs resources or clinical psychologist jobs. Network via academic conferences to refine ideas.