This Digest states that the integration of research into counseling through an evidence-based approach actually brings the best elements of practice, clinical experience, and reliable treatment protocols together to serve the task of helping clients with the complex problems they bring to counseling. It gives several broad implications for the preparation of counselors and the practice of counseling. Research now points to a number of very stable trends that support the efficacy of some practices of counseling over others. These trends inform counseling practice and preparation, and form the basis of an evidence-based model of counseling. The trends can be categorized in two domains, those concerning the practice of counseling and those about the counselor. In determining the factors needed for effective counseling, research points to a collaborative counseling relationship, the value of learning, and action through behavior change. The second domain of counseling research focusing on the counselor finds that a level of skillfulness, cognitive complexity, and ability to relate and relationally match with clients are important counselor contributions. It is essential for counselors to also have the knowledge and ability to assess the presenting problems of the client so that they can identify evidence-based protocols to apply these protocols in order to increase the likelihood that a successful intervention can occur. (Includes seven references.) (JDM)