The answer to this may depend upon where you want to do the research, i.e., which country. If you are in the UK and some other countries, you could enrol on a PhD in an area of counselling that interests you and learn about research as you go along. The other academic route which you can take anywhere including the UK is to do a masters level course in research methods. Alternately, you could look for a job in social work with a research component and learn on the job. It also depends upon what you want to do with your research skills. If you want to be a research professional then you will probably need the PhD or MA/MS but if you just want to do some research in your job then on site training may be enough. I hope that helps.

Focus on content, choose methods and tools in relation with your thematic options. Have a look at Grounded Theory Methodology, and try to apply it to your counselors/social workers subject. Compare with the work done in the field of nursing. Aim at peer-reviewed publications when you are ready to share results. To my mind they are not goal as such. Best & good luck, Charles

Did the answers you received help you Lacey or do you have further questions?

Sorry for the late reply. Yes you all gave me much insight. Thanks for the advice! And I will let you know if I have anymore questions.

You are welcome!

I would recommend a good research methods course as a start. It would also benefit you to become familiar with the literature in your areas of interest. What's been published? What methods have researchers used? What could you contribute to the body of literature as a researcher? This may help you focus on what you want to do and where you should focus your efforts. Good luck to you!

Great answer Marybeth.