Counseling process
Counseling process
The counseling process is a continuous, cyclical model in which the counselor and client collaboratively set goals, formulate actions plans, and assess progress toward the goal(s). Throughout the process new information is integrated, the counselor-client relationship is developed, and progress toward counseling goals is reassessed. It is the utilization of special skills to assist and motivate individuals, couples, and families in achieving short and long term emotional and behavioral objectives. The number of sessions or length of time in therapy is determined by the client’s progress or in some cases, lack of progress, which generally translates to client “dropping out” of counseling.
The counselor must develop an overall awareness of the entire counseling process across a number of interviews. In consultation with the supervisor, students will be asked to approach the model presented here by concentrating on particular points in the model during each semester, and relating these to the overall process.
The counselor may also employ a variety of techniques to help you understand your feelings. For instance, the counselor may ask questions designed to reflect back to you your thought processes and to help you make sense of your feelings. The way we think has a great deal to do with how we feel and how we experience things. You might explore and implement changes in the way you do things, and that then can go on to enhance your life or your relationship.
Expectations of the Counseling Process
You can expect to meet with someone who is interested in listening to your concerns and in helping you develop a better understanding of them so that you may deal with them more easily and effectively. If you have any questions about your therapy, by all means ask. Counselors have no magical skills or knowledge, and will be unable to solve your problems directly for you. If you have any questions about the limits of confidentiality, please bring them up with your counselor.
