Introduction: What does the term counseling really mean? According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary it is as follows: “professional guidance of the individual by utilizing psychological methods, especially in collecting case history data, using various techniques of the personal interview, and testing interests and aptitudes” (Merriam-Webster, n.d.). Personal guidance of a helper is one of the most essential characteristics of an effective counselor. Along with, patience, being a good listener, compassionate, being non-judgmental (unconditional positive regard), empathetic, discrete, self-aware and being authentic. Effective counseling occurs when there is a mutual understanding between the helper and the client, which by information sharing
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Person-centered therapy created in the 1940s by Carl Rodgers. Rather than viewing people as naturally flawed, with problem behaviors and thoughts that require treatment, person-centered therapy identifies that each person has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change. In addition, PCT based on unconditional positive regard, providing the client with empathy also, recognize potential within the client. Arnold M. Washton stated in an article he wrote for the National Institute of Drug Abuse Manual that, “the approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational, and insight-oriented techniques according to each client 's individual needs. The therapeutic style is empathic, client centered, and flexible” he also indicated, “strong emphasis is placed on developing a good working alliance with the client to prevent premature dropout and as a vehicle for promoting therapeutic change (Washton, 2014). Therefore, with that said I feel that is the best therapeutic approach with substance abuse and other addictions. I am certain that I will use other theories; it will depend on the client’s …show more content…
However, what I am starting to notice more about my values, and myself would be that they are changing as I become more aware of others and seeing them as needing help not just a problem. My main desire first is to be a helper above all, no matter the circumstances. For that reason, it is with confidence that in time, also with proper training, and time in the field I will learn to get past preconceived views that have developed over time. For me to be a good counselor, it is imperative that I will not allow my own beliefs, attitudes and values to compromise the client-counselor relationship in any way. Finally, the imposition of values or a viewpoint on clients is not congruent with the values of methods of therapy, in my view it is just not ethical to do
Person-centered therapy created in the 1940s by Carl Rodgers. Rather than viewing people as naturally flawed, with problem behaviors and thoughts that require treatment, person-centered therapy identifies that each person has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change. In addition, PCT based on unconditional positive regard, providing the client with empathy also, recognize potential within the client. Arnold M. Washton stated in an article he wrote for the National Institute of Drug Abuse Manual that, “the approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational, and insight-oriented techniques according to each client 's individual needs. The therapeutic style is empathic, client centered, and flexible” he also indicated, “strong emphasis is placed on developing a good working alliance with the client to prevent premature dropout and as a vehicle for promoting therapeutic change (Washton, 2014). Therefore, with that said I feel that is the best therapeutic approach with substance abuse and other addictions. I am certain that I will use other theories; it will depend on the client’s …show more content…
However, what I am starting to notice more about my values, and myself would be that they are changing as I become more aware of others and seeing them as needing help not just a problem. My main desire first is to be a helper above all, no matter the circumstances. For that reason, it is with confidence that in time, also with proper training, and time in the field I will learn to get past preconceived views that have developed over time. For me to be a good counselor, it is imperative that I will not allow my own beliefs, attitudes and values to compromise the client-counselor relationship in any way. Finally, the imposition of values or a viewpoint on clients is not congruent with the values of methods of therapy, in my view it is just not ethical to do