Counseling People with Disabilities

Stuntzner published her book “Living with a Disability: Finding Peace Amidst the Storm” in September 2012. The book is being used primarily to train rehabilitation counselors in India, where the profession is expanding. It is available to anyone as an e-book or through the publisher, Counseling Association of India, as an electronic file.

Stuntzner wanted to create an accessible resource for counselors, as well as people with disabilities and their families. The book includes research combined with personal experience to help make the information meaningful to readers.

Stuntzner says she first became interested in the coping and adaptation process when she was studying for her master’s degree. She thought it was ironic that society expects people to cope well following a disability, but doesn’t give them the tools or access to resources to do so.

Much of Stuntzner’s research focuses on the importance of forgiveness, resiliency and adaptation strategies when coping with disabilities. Studies have shown that forgiveness helps reduce anger, depression and anxiety and is therefore an important component of coping with traumatic events such as the sudden acquisition of a disability.

“Forgiveness is something that people with disabilities may find beneficial to practice because they experience a lot of social injustices, biases, stigma and negative societal attitudes,” Stuntzner says.

Her next book is titled “Reflections from the Past: Life Lessons for Better Living.” It will focus on coping strategies for people with disabilities, but will be more connected with resiliency and techniques Stuntzner has found applicable during her own resiliency-building process.