My Philosophy of Counseling Essay

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Personal Philosophy of Counseling

One counseling approach that has always resonated with me is the Transtheoretical Model of Change (2016). This suggests that every client moves through six different stages on the way to making a positive change in his or her life, beginning with pre-contemplation and ending with termination, or the desire to maintain the change that has occurred. As a counselor, I see myself as a facilitator of change in every client’s life. Ultimately, it is the client who must make the change and take the steps to alter his or her environment and perspective. But the counselor has a vital role in ensuring that the client knows that a change needs to be made during the pre-contemplation stage, can help the client to understand when and how to start making changes. The counselor can identify negative self-talk that can inhibit change.

My view of human nature is influenced both by humanist and behavioral approaches. I agree with the humanist belief that all human beings wish to realize their maximum potential, even though internal obstacles such as low self-esteem can prevent this. I believe in the need for the therapist to create an atmosphere of unconditional positive regard for the client, so the client feels positive and empowered to make a meaningful change (McLeod 2015).
It is very important for the counselor to understand the psychological perspective of the client, even if the client sees him or herself in an irrational way. From the cognitive behavioral school of counseling, however, I also believe in the need for counselors to help clients set positive goals for themselves to target behaviors that no longer serve the client and to promote improvement (Cherry 2016). An important part of building a client’s self-esteem is to show the client how to overcome his or her fears and negative thought processes.

Given the sensitivity of information that is exchanged within the counseling relationship, counselors must be aware of current legal and ethical standards. Trust in counselor confidentiality is vital, and particularly in today’s age of social media, knowing what is appropriate to disclose to another person, even casually, is essential. It is also important that clients understand ethical standards in regards to minor clients and how much they should or should not disclose to the minor’s parents. Finally, legal guidelines regarding when it may be necessary to break confidentiality is also….....

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https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/philosophy-counseling-2166125