Counseling and Clinical Theories Why Counseling To be

Counseling and Clinical Theories

Why Counseling?

To be a counselor means dedicating oneself to the resolution of conflicts that are often irreconcilable, solving problems that have no right answers, and mediating disputes among parties who enjoy fighting.

Counseling is: • • • A profession An activity A relationship – Requires care, honesty, acceptance, and openness • Multidimensional • A process

Counseling is: • • Helping people to articulate why they are seeking help Formulating goals and expectations for treatment Teaching clients how to get the most from the counseling experience Developing a high degree of trust and favorable expectations for change Diagnosing those concerns and dysfunctional areas in need of upgrading Exploring the client’s world, including past and present functioning Facilitating the release of pent-up frustrations and conflicts Supporting and accepting the client as a person while selectively reinforcing those behaviors that are most fully functioning

Counseling is: • Confronting inconsistencies in the client’s thoughts, language, and behavior • Challenging assumptions that are inappropriate, self-destructive, or irrational • Uncovering hidden and unconscious motives behind actions • Encouraging people to accept more responsibility for their choices and actions • Helping clients to develop more options for their lives and narrow alternatives to those that are most suitable • Providing constructive feedback • Structuring opportunities for practicing new ways of acting and being • Facilitating greater independence in the client so that counseling ends in the most efficient period of time

Counseling is: • • • Exhilarating at times, crushingly sad at others Fulfilling and disappointing, etc. A learning process: – Our theory of counseling – What is helpful to the client – About our selves

To Be a Counselor • • • Committed Be able to ride the wave of emotions Neutral – Advocate for your client – Must let them make their own decisions • Personal values and beliefs

To Be a Counselor • • • Focus entirely on the client Teach through self discovery See your client as worthy of help