Journal of Rehabilitation Counseling

Original Article Rehabilitation

The Effectiveness of Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) on Improving Autism Symptoms and Challenging Behaviors in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Isfahan

Somayeh Ghorbani Kehrizsangi; Nafiseh Khodadadi

Volume 2, Issue 2 , September 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.146342.1044

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder emerge early in childhood, restricting or impairing daily functioning. Early identification of autism along with the provision of timely, appropriate interventions improves their quality of life. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine ... Read More Background and Purpose: Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder emerge early in childhood, restricting or impairing daily functioning. Early identification of autism along with the provision of timely, appropriate interventions improves their quality of life. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) on reducing autism symptoms and challenging behaviors in autistic children in Isfahan.Method: The present study was quasi-experimental with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. The statistical population comprised children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in Isfahan. Among autism rehabilitation centers, one center was selected through convenience sampling. Thirty children with a diagnosis of autism were randomly selected and assigned to experimental and control groups. Research instruments included the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS, 2006) and the Child Challenging Behavior Scale (Brookman-Frazee, Haine, Baker-Ericzen, & Garland / Brook Taylor et al., 2009). The experimental group received 12 sessions of Early Start Denver intervention, and data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) in SPSS-28.Findings: The findings revealed that the Early Start Denver intervention was effective on autism symptoms, including stereotyped behaviors, communication, and social interaction (p < 0.05), but had no significant effect on the developmental disturbances subscale (p > 0.05). Furthermore, this intervention was effective in reducing challenging behaviors (p < 0.05).Conclusion: By targeting imitation, verbal and nonverbal communication, joint attention, social development, and play, the Early Start Denver intervention reduces autism symptoms and decreases challenging behaviors. Additionally, by strengthening imitative, symbolic, and exploratory play, the Denver intervention enhances child-parent and peer interactions, improves the ability to engage in more complex communication and interaction, and reduces the occurrence of challenging behaviors

View Article

Original Article Psychology

From Reflex to Behavior: A Systematic Review of the Effects of Reflex Therapy on Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Ghazale Nahavandi; Saeed Rezayi

Volume 2, Issue 2 , September 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.146419.1046

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Primitive reflexes play a crucial role in the early development of the child’s brain. However, many of these reflexes must gradually be inhibited during normal childhood development. In individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ... Read More Background and Purpose: Primitive reflexes play a crucial role in the early development of the child’s brain. However, many of these reflexes must gradually be inhibited during normal childhood development. In individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), several of these reflexes persist beyond the typical developmental period, leading to various functional difficulties. The present systematic review aimed to investigate reflex-based interventions that may reduce the symptoms of ASD and ADHD.Method: This systematic review was designed, conducted, and reported in accordance with the PRISMA checklist. A systematic review of studies examining reflex-based interventions for reducing symptoms of ASD and ADHD was conducted. Relevant English and Persian articles were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ResearchGate, MagIran, NoorMags, and the Scientific Information Database (SID). The keywords used included: Reflex, Primitive Reflex, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, attention-deficit, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD, randomized controlled trial, controlled clinical trial, intervention, along with their Persian equivalents. Of 83 studies published over the past 7 years, 6 studies were included and assessed for methodological quality using the JBI checklist.Findings: The identified reflex-based interventions applied to individuals with ASD and ADHD included massage and reflexology, chiropractic care, sensory stimulation, and motor stimulation. These interventions were found to be effective in reducing core symptoms of these disorders. Reflexology and motor exercises were common interventions for both ASD and ADHD, whereas massage and chiropractic care were reported only for ADHD, and sensory stimulation was examined exclusively in ASD populations. Most prior studies were case studies with small sample sizes, limiting their external validity.Conclusion: Reflex-based interventions appear to have beneficial effects on reducing symptoms associated with ASD and ADHD. Further large-scale, controlled studies are warranted to clarify the mechanisms underlying these effects and to establish evidence-based therapeutic protocols.

View Article

Original Article Psychology

Prediction of suicidal thoughts based on feelings of loneliness, self-esteem and life satisfaction in university students

Shahriar Dargahi; Nima Rezvani; Zohre Ghanbari

Volume 2, Issue 2 , September 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.146356.1045

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Suicide is one of the most urgent public health crises in the contemporary world, and university students appear to be more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts than the general population. The present study aimed to investigate the role of loneliness, self-esteem, and life satisfaction ... Read More

View Article

Original Article Psychological rehabilitation

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Existential Therapy on Self-Compassion and Distress Tolerance in Women with Breast Cancer

Samad Azizi; Nasrin Homayounfar; Behzad Taghipuor; Farzad Sadaghiyani; Roqayeh Barzegaran

Volume 2, Issue 2 , September 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.146594.1048

Abstract

Background and Objective: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Existential Therapy on self-compassion and distress tolerance in women with breast cancer.Methoh: This applied research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest–posttest ... Read More

View Article

Original Article Counseling

The Moderating Role of Parenting Styles in Relationship between Marital Conflict and Parent Abuse

Zabihollah Abbaspour; Maryam Jafari; Reza Khojastehmehr

Volume 2, Issue 2 , September 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.146541.1047

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Parent abuse is one of the less recognized forms of family violence that can adversely affect parents’ psychological well-being and family functioning. Given the significant role of family factors in the development of this phenomenon, examining the moderating effects ... Read More Background and Objectives: Parent abuse is one of the less recognized forms of family violence that can adversely affect parents’ psychological well-being and family functioning. Given the significant role of family factors in the development of this phenomenon, examining the moderating effects of parenting styles in the relationship between marital conflict and parent abuse is of considerable importance. The present study aimed to investigate the moderating roles of parenting styles in the relationship between marital conflict and parent abuse.Method: This descriptive correlational study employed a moderation analysis design. The statistical population consisted of all mothers of female students enrolled in junior and senior high schools in Gandoman, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, in 2025. Based on the Krejcie and Morgan sample size table, 240 participants were selected from a population of 638 mothers using cluster random sampling. Data were collected using the Marital Conflict Questionnaire, the Parent Abuse Scale–Girl to Mother (PAS-GM), and Baumrind’s Parenting Styles Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and moderated regression analysis in SPSS version 29.Findings: The findings indicated a significant positive relationship between marital conflict and parent abuse. Authoritative parenting style was negatively associated with parent abuse, whereas permissive and authoritarian parenting styles were positively associated with parent abuse. Moderation analysis revealed that authoritative and permissive parenting styles significantly moderated the relationship between marital conflict and parent abuse; however, authoritarian parenting style did not significantly moderate this relationship.Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicate that marital conflict may represent one of the risk factors associated with increased child-to-parent violence, while parenting styles may play a determining role in how this relationship manifests. Accordingly the interventions that focus on reducing marital conflict and strengthening an authoritative parenting style may contribute to preventing child-to-parent violence and promoting the psychosocial functioning of families.

View Article

Original Article Psychology

Predicting High-Risk Behaviors Based on Internet Addiction, Academic Burnout, and Loneliness Among High School Girls

Saba Abedi; Mohammad Shamsian

Volume 2, Issue 2 , September 2026

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.146697.1049

Abstract

Background and Objective: Risky behaviors during adolescence are important mental health concerns. This study aimed to examine the relationships of internet addiction, academic burnout, and loneliness with risky behaviors and to determine the simultaneous predictive ability of these variables among female ... Read More Background and Objective: Risky behaviors during adolescence are important mental health concerns. This study aimed to examine the relationships of internet addiction, academic burnout, and loneliness with risky behaviors and to determine the simultaneous predictive ability of these variables among female high school students. Methods: This applied, quantitative, descriptive-correlational study was conducted in 1405 in District 2 of Kermanshah. The statistical population consisted of 2,120 female high school students, of whom 286 were selected using cluster sampling. Data were collected using the Young Internet Addiction Test (Young, 1998), the Academic Burnout Scale developed by Bresó, Salanova, and Schaufeli (2007), the UCLA Loneliness Scale Version 3 (Russell, 1996), and the Risky Behavior Questionnaire developed by Shojaei-Baghini (1387). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and simultaneous multiple linear regression.Results: Internet addiction was positively and significantly correlated with risky behaviors (r=0.46, P<0.001). Academic burnout was also positively and significantly correlated with risky behaviors (r=0.41, P<0.001), as was loneliness (r=0.54, P<0.001). In the simultaneous regression analysis, internet addiction (β=0.31, P<0.001), academic burnout (β=0.29, P<0.001), and loneliness (β=0.34, P<0.001) significantly predicted risky behaviors. The model yielded R=0.59, R²=0.34, and F=24.83 (P<0.001), indicating that these three variables jointly explained 34% of the variance in risky behaviors.Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of simultaneously addressing internet addiction, academic burnout, and loneliness in programs aimed at preventing risky behaviors. Screening students and implementing school-based interventions focused on managing internet use, reducing academic pressure and burnout, strengthening peer relationships, and increasing social support may be useful for school counselors and adolescent specialists.

View Article

Evaluating the role of Rehabilitation Counseling in Promoting Mental Health of Older Adults after Disasters: A Scoping Review

Volume 1, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 165-174

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2025.143898.1012

Abstract

Background and Objective: Disasters can have significant psychological consequences for older adults, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Due to their specific physical, psychological, and social conditions, older adults are more vulnerable to these effects compared ... Read More Background and Objective: Disasters can have significant psychological consequences for older adults, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Due to their specific physical, psychological, and social conditions, older adults are more vulnerable to these effects compared to other age groups. The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of counseling and psychosocial interventions, particularly rehabilitation counseling, in reducing psychological symptoms among older adults following disasters.Methods: This study is a scoping review of international research on psychosocial interventions for older adults in post-disaster contexts. A comprehensive search was conducted in electronic databases, including Scopus and Web of Science, as well as targeted searches in Google Scholar, using an initial search strategy covering the years 2000 to 2025. Data were extracted from studies addressing various intervention approaches such as supportive counseling, psychotherapy, social support, and innovative methods like horticultural therapy and culturally adapted traditional interventions.Findings: Findings indicated that most interventions—especially rehabilitation counseling and social support—were effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, several innovative approaches demonstrated positive outcomes in enhancing the quality of life of older adults.Conclusion: Counseling and psychosocial interventions play a crucial role in promoting the mental health of older adults after disasters. However, further clinical trials with long-term follow-ups are needed to assess the sustainability and long-term effectiveness of these interventions. Given the heightened vulnerability of older adults, disaster preparedness and response policies should prioritize this population, and the development of standardized rehabilitation counseling protocols for older adults is essential to mitigate the psychological impacts of disasters.

The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Anxiety and Depressive Disorders in Adolescence: A Narrative Review

Volume 1, Issue 4 , February 2026, , Pages 282-295

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2026.145359.1036

Abstract

Background and Objective: Childhood trauma experience is known to be one of the major risk factors for the development of depressive and anxiety disorders in adolescents. The aim of this narrative review was to investigate the impact of various childhood traumas on depressive and anxiety disorders in ... Read More Background and Objective: Childhood trauma experience is known to be one of the major risk factors for the development of depressive and anxiety disorders in adolescents. The aim of this narrative review was to investigate the impact of various childhood traumas on depressive and anxiety disorders in adolescents and the possible role of mediating variables. Method: In this narrative review, studies related to the effects of childhood trauma on anxiety and depression disorders in adolescents were identified and reviewed through the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Data extracted from 25 studies were analyzed and organized to identify psychological consequences, types of trauma, measurement tools, the role of mediating variables, and sample characteristics to determine the key aspects of the impact of trauma on adolescents' mental disorders. Findings: The results showed that adolescents who experienced childhood trauma are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders. The severity and frequency of trauma were correlated with the severity of depression and anxiety symptoms. Sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and emotional neglect had the most significant effects. The mediating role of resilience, perceived social support, emotion regulation, school engagement, and self-concept in reducing the effects of trauma on depression and anxiety was reported in some studies, indicating that these factors can moderate the negative effects of trauma and reduce the risk of mental disorders. Conclusion: The experience of childhood trauma, particularly emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect, is associated with an increased likelihood of depression and anxiety disorders in adolescents. Strengthening mediating variables and focusing on prevention and early intervention can mitigate the negative effects of these experiences. These findings underscore the importance of designing educational and psychological interventions for adolescents exposed to trauma.

Adolescent Students' Perception of Economic Uncertainty and Tendency to Suicidal Thoughts

Volume 1, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 175-190

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2025.143912.1009

Abstract

Background and Objective: Economic crises and the accompanying uncertainty are recognized as major contributing factors to psychological distress. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the perceptions of adolescent students in Ahvaz regarding economic uncertainty and its association with suicidal ... Read More Background and Objective: Economic crises and the accompanying uncertainty are recognized as major contributing factors to psychological distress. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the perceptions of adolescent students in Ahvaz regarding economic uncertainty and its association with suicidal ideation.Method: This qualitative study was conducted in 2024 using a phenomenological approach. The study population included all adolescents living in Ahvaz. A purposive convenience sample of 14 adolescents aged 13–16 years, who had experienced suicidal ideation or suicide attempts and whose families faced unemployment and financial difficulties, was selected. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method.Findings: Analysis of the interviews revealed eight core themes reflecting adolescents’ multidimensional understanding of economic uncertainty and its psychological consequences: (1) tendency toward self-harming thoughts, (2) suicidal ideation, (3) hopelessness about improving the family’s economic conditions, (4) feelings of loneliness, worthlessness, and decreased self-esteem, (5) perceived economic inadequacy and inability to support the family financially, (6) parental conflicts and tensions arising from financial stress, (7) lack of emotional support from parents during economic hardship, and (8) the influence of school and social culture in reinforcing social rejection and economic marginalization. Overall, the findings indicate that economic uncertainty imposes not only material strain but also significantly contributes to emotional distress and suicidal thoughts among adolescents.Conclusion: The results demonstrate that adolescents’ perceptions of family economic uncertainty are associated with increased self-harming thoughts and suicidal tendencies. These findings underscore the urgent need for preventive interventions at the family, school, and community levels—such as strengthening psychosocial support, enhancing economic literacy, and reducing financial stress within families—to promote mental health and resilience among adolescents.

The Mediating role of Psychological Resilience in the Relationship between Childhood Trauma and Non-Suicidal Self-Harm Behaviors in High School Students

Volume 1, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 200-212

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2025.144949.1029

Abstract

Background and Objective: Child maltreatment is a widespread public health problem with adverse short-term and long-term physical and mental health consequences for children. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mediating role of psychological resilience between childhood trauma and non-suicidal ... Read More

Examining the Challenges of Counselors in the Academic Guidance of Students with Physical and Motor Disabilities

Volume 1, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 225-241

https://doi.org/10.22034/jrc.2025.144728.1024

Abstract

Background and Objective: Despite its critical importance, the academic guidance of students with physical and motor disabilities has consistently been accompanied by numerous challenges for counselors. This study seeks to examine these challenges in depth. The primary objective of the study was to identify ... Read More Background and Objective: Despite its critical importance, the academic guidance of students with physical and motor disabilities has consistently been accompanied by numerous challenges for counselors. This study seeks to examine these challenges in depth. The primary objective of the study was to identify and clarify the challenges faced by counselors in providing academic guidance to students with physical and motor disabilities.Method: This study is fundamental in purpose and qualitative in nature, employing a content analysis approach. The temporal scope of the research covered the years 1402–1403, and the spatial scope included the cities of Tehran, Karaj, Hashtgerd, Qazvin, Urmia, and Golestan. The study population consisted of counselors with professional experience in the educational guidance of students with physical and motor disabilities. Participants were selected through non-random purposive sampling. Data were collected using in-depth, semi-structured exploratory interviews and analyzed through qualitative content analysis.Findings: Analysis of the interview data resulted in the extraction of 32 sub-themes, which were organized into 9 main themes. The principal themes included: ineffectiveness of aptitude and ability assessments; limitations in choosing academic majors and career paths; unrealistic parental attitudes; attitudinal and emotional inconsistency among students; insufficient knowledge and skills of counselors; lack of physical facilities and adaptive equipment; inadequate capacity and supportive infrastructure in the major selection process; insufficient institutional cooperation and coordination; and the presence of structural inequality and educational discrimination.Conclusion: The findings indicate that addressing the challenges faced by counselors in the academic guidance of students with physical and motor disabilities requires comprehensive corrective actions at systemic, environmental, and educational levels.

Journal Information
Journal Type:	Scientific-Research
Language:	Persian with brief English abstracts
Publication Frequency:	Quarterly (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter)
Country/City of Publication:	Iran, Sanandaj
Publication Format:	Electronic (Online)
Owner/Publisher:	University of Kurdistan
First Issue:	Spring 2025
Review Type:	Double-Blind Peer Review (at least two reviewers)
Article Processing and Publication Charges:	Free of charge
Indexed:	Yes
Open Access:	Yes (full free access)
Initial Review Time:	Maximum one week
Peer Review Time:	Maximum two months
License Number from Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance:	96439
Journal Email:	r.counseling@uok.ac.ir

Journal of Rehabilitation Counseling

Articles in Press

Current Issue

Volume 2 (2026)

Volume 1 (2025)

The Effectiveness of Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) on Improving Autism Symptoms and Challenging Behaviors in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Isfahan

Abstract

From Reflex to Behavior: A Systematic Review of the Effects of Reflex Therapy on Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Prediction of suicidal thoughts based on feelings of loneliness, self-esteem and life satisfaction in university students

Abstract

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Existential Therapy on Self-Compassion and Distress Tolerance in Women with Breast Cancer

Abstract

The Moderating Role of Parenting Styles in Relationship between Marital Conflict and Parent Abuse

Abstract

Predicting High-Risk Behaviors Based on Internet Addiction, Academic Burnout, and Loneliness Among High School Girls

Abstract

Evaluating the role of Rehabilitation Counseling in Promoting Mental Health of Older Adults after Disasters: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Anxiety and Depressive Disorders in Adolescence: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Adolescent Students' Perception of Economic Uncertainty and Tendency to Suicidal Thoughts

Abstract

The Mediating role of Psychological Resilience in the Relationship between Childhood Trauma and Non-Suicidal Self-Harm Behaviors in High School Students

Abstract

Examining the Challenges of Counselors in the Academic Guidance of Students with Physical and Motor Disabilities

Abstract

Indexing and Abstracting

Keywords Cloud