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Counseling Approaches
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There are literally hundreds
of counseling approaches - ranging from basic active listening and a solution
focus - to the seemingly bizarre. In general, it is wise to seek a
well-trained and qualified counselor whose approach is primarily determined not
by what they do but by what you need. Here are
some thoughts on healthy and productive counseling relationships as they relate
to counselor style and approach. |
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A Consistently Worthy Goal in Counseling is to Empower You
- To take ownership of your
counseling and goals,
- To reach your goals as
promptly as is reasonably possible,
- To examine choices you are
making, and
- To see yourself as the
primary catalyst for change in your life, irrespective of what others may or
may not do.
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Consequently, an empowering
therapist will not generally give advice, make decisions for you, tell you
what to do, or foster gratuitous dependency upon themselves. To do so is to send
an underlying message suggesting, "You are not capable of making your own
decisions, so do this." And that is not very empowering! |
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A Counselor Needs to be Non-judgmental Yet Willing to be Forthright |
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Most
clients seek a counselor who is accepting, non-blaming, and non-judgmental.
At the same time, they want someone to "shoot-straight" with them in a
compassionate manner and give them honest, objective, and candid feedback when
requested. |
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An Effective Counselor
Consistently Monitors Expectations |
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"Therapeutic process" is a
fancy way of saying, "Are we (still) on the same page?" An
effective counselor does not take this for granted, but considers throughout the
counseling process questions such as:
- Are you getting what you
need from me?
- What is it that I do that
helps you? Is not helpful?
- Do you feel you are being
heard and understood?
- Are we headed in the right
direction, or, have your goals changed? Have your expectations changed?
It is important for
the counseling relationship to be monitored carefully for issues between
counselor and client which can either hinder or enhance reaching your goals.
Even though your counselor will try their best to "monitor" therapeutic process
issues, please know that they cannot read minds ( we do not use crystal balls!
). Be sure to TELL your counselor of your needs and if your goals have
changed. Ongoing collaboration requires both feedback and sensitivity. |
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Our Approach |
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Our goal at IPPS is to use the
most appropriate counseling approach based upon the presenting concern, the
needs of the client, therapeutic opportunities and limitations, and what
research has shown as most efficacious. Effective counseling is based upon
ongoing clarity of expectations and shared responsibility. | |
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Daniel L. Baney,
Ph.D. Psychologist HSPP |
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If you have specific questions
about treatment approaches for any concern you might have, our counselors
will be glad to consult with you. We can be contacted at
IPPS or, at (260) 469-0090. |
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