This book addresses the need for counselor training materials which deal with the counseling needs of women of varying ethnic and racial backgrounds. It is designed for training in community agencies, women's centers, college and university counseling centers, and other programs addressing the needs of re-entry women, single women, and displaced homemakers. The role of critical events in individual development is discussed, and the benefits of the case study method as a learning tool are described. Strategies for using case studies in a group setting are outlined and a discussion guide is provided. Ten composite case studies are presented which were developed from two interview studies of perceived critical events in the lives of 150 Black, White, and Hispanic women. The cases contain quotations and other details taken from the interview material, and illustrate the range of issues and events reported by participants. The cases are written from a client's point of view and represent a variety of counseling situations dealing with marital and family problems, career issues, health concerns, and adjusting to change. (JAC)