Self-Disclosure In Counseling

More often the answer to this question is no and probably for good reason, despite the counselor's intent of wanting to help those who want or trying to recover from alcohol and drugs, the outcome may not be what is being looked for for. The alcohol and drug counselor, may struggle with cognitive dissonance (behavioral and attitude issues) that will help them focus on there own recovery instead of the clients. The problem with someone going through therapy and recovery themselves can be a hindrance to those who are trying to get clean. It would be highly recommended for those who want to become a alcohol and drug counselor to wait a few years before pursuing. Also, it would not be a good idea to reveal much about your own recovery (self-disclosure), …show more content…
The purpose of self-disclosure is to maintain a sense of neutrality (transference relationship) and this is where clients will make projections. Generally, alcohol and drug counselors are not there for there own reformation, but to help aid in the recovery of the client (patient). The client's issues come before the counselors and the key here is to be there for the client and not for oneself. When the counselor spends too much time on there issues it can be seen as being inappropriate. If a counselor wants to seek further treatment, then it would probably not be a good idea. Those who are wanting to become a drug and alcohol counselor need to weigh in on the possibility of a possible relapse, which can hinder the recovery process for those who are trying to seek the necessary treatment for there alcohol and drug problem. Not only could this pose a problem between counselor and patient, it could also cause legal issues, such as being sued for malpractice. These issues need to be weighed in for addicts in recovery, who want to be a alcohol and drug counselor. I am not saying that is not possible, but everything needs to be examined before pursuing this as a career choice. The bottom line is this, not only would the counselor have to worry about a relapse, they also need to weigh in on the ethical implications, in which they are boundary issues and is a violation and could possibly do more harm than good to the