Final Flashcards
Define counseling and describe what makes it a distinctive relationship
Counseling is an interactive process involving a unique relationship between client and counselor that results in most cases as a change in behavior, beliefs, and level of emotional stress. The relationship between client and counselor is distinctive because it is strictly on a professional level, time-limited, and oriented toward change.
What is the Purpose of Counseling
The purpose of counseling is to empower clients to cope with life issues, engage in growth producing activities, make effective decisions, and reduce levels of stress.
Describe five of the characteristics necessary to be an effective counselor and why they are important
Having a life is one characteristic an if a counselor doesn’t possess this then they are more then likely to become obsessed with their work.
Having a sense of humor is another characteristic because in this field you come across many difficult issues. If this is an everyday occurence then you have to be able to laugh things off.
Having an identity is important because yes you are a counselor but it is not all you are. Also, in this field you will be put into situations where who you are outside of your job or what you have experienced could help you emphasize and/or better handle a client.
Another characteristic is that the counselor should be aware of their power and are able to handle it. Counselors can become a huge influence and clients could come to rely on them. This could be detrimentle to the clients welfare in the longrun.
Last, the counselor needs to posses a sense of warmth, love, and understanding. This helps the client to open u to you and allow them to feel comfortable in your presence.
What are 2 unhealthy reasons why someone chooses counseling as a profession?
2 unhealthy reason would be the need for power/influence and the need to understand/work through their own issues.
What is 1 healthy reason to choose counseling as a profession?
Genuine care and concern for the welfare of others.
Informed consent?
Clients must be provided with info regarding the counseling process so they can decide if they want to participate.
Dual Relationships?
Having a relationship with a client that is something other than a professional relationship.
Privileged communication?
Confidential communications that DO NOT have to be disclosed in court even if the witness is subpoenaed.
Client waiver/Release of info
A written document that authorizes the counselor to release specific purpose for a finite period of time.
Examples of informed consent
Purpose/Goals of treatment Techniques/Procedures used Limitations of confidentiality Risks/Benefits of Counseling Fees/Billing Approximate length of treatment
Examples of Dual Relationships
Sexual/Romantic Business/Financial Family Member/Relative Friend/Acquaintance Colleague/Mentor/Instructor
Identify Clients Rights
Informed Consent Privacy Protection Against Harm Refuse Treatment Competent Treatment
Describe the 4 components of listening. Why do they listen in that manner, and why are they important in the counseling process?
The 4 components of listening are ears, eyes, undivided attention, and heart. First, listening with your ears is important because its vital to hear what the client says and what they don’t say. The client’s tone and tempo of voice can help you infer a lot about how they feel towards something. Second, listening with your eyes is another component of listening meaning paying special attention to facial expressions, eye contact, posture/gestures, etc. Using your eyes helps to see physical issues as well, this includes effects of drug use and show signs of the mental state. For example, shifty eyes, dilated pupils, shaky hands. Third, this component of undivided attention is very crucial. If the client or counselor is distracted by internal or external noise then they are not completely focused. If the client sees that the counselor isn’t focused then they will feel as if the counselor doesn’t care. The fourth and final component of listening is listening with your heart. This means you need to have a level of empathy with your clients in order to try to understand what their going through and better aid them.
Pros of Group Therapy
Cost Efficiency Spectator Effects Feedback Support Practicing new skills in a safe environment Stimulation value
Cons of Group Therapy
Confidentiality is hard to maintain.
Group pressure can be distressing
Less time for client
Counselors having less experience within a group.
“Dual Relationship” concerns
Not for people who are easily intimidated, manipulative, or insensitive.
