The COUNSELINK Feasibility and Planning Project acquired the information necessary to determine the feasibility and desirability of creating a computer-based telecommunications network for professional counselors through a review of the literature, use of online information systems and local bulletin board systems, and communication with managers of online networks and bulletin boards. The results of this investigation, including recommendations for a pilot project, are included in this report. The report looks at the current status of telecommunications, explains how a telecommunication system works, and considers the need for networking among counseling professionals. Options for COUNSELINK are considered and various ways that such a system could be implemented are presented. Desired features of COUNSELINK are discussed. A section on online networks through mainframe connections looks at existing services available through General Videotex, CompuServe, and The Source. Individual bulletin board systems are also described. Budget considerations addressed include online network costs, hardware expenses, and individual bulletin board system costs. The report concludes with a set of recommendations, the overall recommendation being that, if the American Association for Counseling and Development is willing to commit sufficient energy and money to the project, a fully private network be established through General Videotex's GROUPLINK or The Source's Private Network Services. A glossary of terms used in the computer and telecommunications field is provided. (NB)
