A study was conducted of counseling services in Adult Basic Education (ABE) programs in Maryland (1) to gather information on the current status of counseling services provided to ABE students in the state; (2) to assess the need for future counseling services for these students; and (3) to design a model for a three-year counseling implementation and staff development plan for use in ABE programs in the state. Data were gathered through literature reviews; perusal of reports from the Adult and Community Education Branch of the Maryland State Department of Education; and interviews with and survey questionnaires filled out by local ABE program coordinators, teachers, counselors, and students. It was found that some of the ABE programs in Maryland are providing some counseling services in varying degrees; however, no program is providing all needed services and some programs provide few or none. Based on the findings, it was recommended that local ABE programs begin to build a program of counseling services that would address the needs of students as they enter, participate in, and leave the program. The recommendations include minimal standards for delivery of these services. Services should include (1) entry services introduction to the program, registration and orientation, initial assessment of skills, academic program planning, self-appraisal, goal setting, and establishment of group support systems; (2) participation and retention services monitoring student progress, academic planning, career development and planning, assistance with personal concerns, and maintenance of group support systems; and (3) exit services reaching dropouts, follow up of completers, referral to appropriate community agencies, and staff development. A model comprising a three-year plan of goals for counseling services in Maryland ABE programs was proposed. (KC)