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Introduction
Retirement is an increasingly important topic for career practitioners, especially with the first wave of 3.2 million baby boomers turning 65 in 2011. This age cohort is already shifting the perceptions and expecta- tions of retirement, furthering the transformation of this life stage that began decades ago. While the baby boomers are often grouped together as a cohort, it is important to recognize that the most outstanding char- acteristic of this group is its diversity. Many of these adults are looking to "what's next" as they anticipate living longer and carving out a life in retirement that holds unique opportunities for meaning and a sense of ex- citement (Schlossberg, 2009). The shape and definition of this life stage continues to evolve and change away from the traditional stereotypes. What was once considered the "end of the road" has become for many a marker along the way. Often these adults are actively engaged in forg- ing new paths, and creating a unique combination of work, learning, and leisure (Nelson & Bolles, 2007). Laslett (1991) described this stage as the Third Age, referring to newfound opportunities for self-development and reaching new heights of fulfillment and/or achievement. This idea of retirement is in contrast to stereotypes of long afternoon naps and leisure- ly time on the front porch. Yet, retirement is unique to each individual, and it is imperative when working with a client to define what retirement means, sorting through influential factors, and determining how all this fits within the client's social/cultural context. As this journal issue high- lights, the topic of retirement has been gaining increased attention from scholars and researchers over the past few decades, and practitioners are in need of tools and strategies to help their clients navigate their paths through retirement.
Working within the transition framework can be a helpful strategy in assessing and determining a counseling plan with clients who are ap- proaching, or already living their lives in retirement. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of Schlossberg's 4-S Model (Anderson, Goodman, & Schlossberg, 2012). We are defining a transition as an event or non-event resulting in change. Within this article we will illustrate, conceptualize, and discuss practical strategies for working with the four major factors...