The Beginning Counselors Survival Guide Workbook

The Beginning Counselors
Survival
Guide Workbook

by

Stephanie Ann Adams

2011 by Beginnings Counseling & Consulting and Stephanie Ann Adams
All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States of America.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise, ex-
cept as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the United States Copyright Act, without either the
prior written permission of the Author.

Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While the author has used their best efforts in preparing
this book, the author makes no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or com-
pleteness of the contents of this workbook and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty may be created or extended by sales
representatives or written sales materials. The advice and strategies herein may not be suitable for
your situation. You should consult with a professional where appropriate. Neither the publisher nor
the authors shall be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damages, including but not
limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages.

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the sub-
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iii

Preface

This workbook is designed to be a companion to the book The Beginning Counselors Sur-
vival Guide: The New Counselors Plan for Success from Practicum to Licensure. That is to
say, each worksheet or exercise accompanies a specific chapter in the book. However, you
dont have to have the book to get great use out of the workbook! Each workbook page con-
tains all the instructions you will need. My hope is that this workbook will be another
resource that can help ease your journey towards becoming a fully-licensed counselor.
I believe in you!

Acknowledgements

This workbook is dedicated to the members of the BeginningCounselor social networking site and
mailing list. You guys are the reason I do this.

Site Search Worksheets

Contains:
Essential Site Requirements
Site brainstorming sheet
Master List
Phone Call SCript
Site Interview questions

2011 Stephanie Ann Adams

Essential Site Requirements
What does your site need to have in order to grow you into the counselor
youre meant to be? This worksheet will help you to begin defining what that is
and start forming criteria for elimination of unsuitable sites.

Am I looking for a practicum or internship? PRACTICUM INTERNSHIP
Do I need a site that pays me? YES NO
How much time do I have available to work? FULL-TIME PART-TIME
Do I need a supervisor on-site? YES NO
How many hours do I need from this site? (Minimum) _____________
Do I require any specialty equipment? (Such as a play therapy room) YES NO
If yes, what do I need? _____________________________________________
Am I willing to find my own clients? YES NO
What group of people do I eventually want to work with?
_____________________________________________________________
Will this site allow me to work with this group? YES NO
What skills would I like to acquire during this internship?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________


Site Brainstorming Sheet
What sites might be already right at your fingertips?

Do I already know anyone in the counseling business? YES NO
If yes, write down their name and number.
_____________________________________________________________
What people do you know that might help you find a nontraditional site (not private
practice)? Examples: People at schools, churches, parenting centers
Name Potential Site Connection
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
What unique experiences can you bring to an internship to set you apart from other appli-
cants? (For example, being an adoptive parent and applying to work with adoption
counseling services.)
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

The point here is to dig deep. You never know what kind of connections you have! When you find
someone who might be a good resource, be careful to treat them kindly. Ask them first for advice, and
if they are receptive, move on to a direct request to recommend you for a position. A handwritten note
afterwards is a nice way to show your appreciation for their help.


Master List
Who you gonna call?
You will want to make multiple copies of the following sheet, because the
more potential sites you have to call the better your chances of finding the per-
fect one for you!

Name of Site: ____________________________________________________
Type of Site:_____________________________________________________
Phone Number: __________________________________________________
Director/Contact Person Name: _______________________________________
Date Called: ___/____ Result of Call:__________________________________
Notes:
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________

Name of Site: ____________________________________________________
Type of Site:_____________________________________________________
Phone Number: __________________________________________________
Director/Contact Person Name: _______________________________________
Date Called: ___/____ Result of Call:__________________________________
Notes:
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________


Phone call Script
Dont be lost for words on that all-important phone call! Fill in the blanks be-
low and add your own style!

Receptionist/Counselor/Machine: Thank you for calling __________________.
You: Hi, my name is ________________________, and Im a [counseling practicum
student] or [counselor intern] at ________________ University. Im looking for a practi-
cum/internship and I wondered if your office was accepting any new interns/practicum
students at this time?
1. You are? Could I possibly set up a time to speak to the counseling director about the
internship opportunity?
2. Well, Im sorry it wont work out, but thank you so much for your time. Have a great
day.
o Make sure you ask to speak with the clinical director. This person makes the decisions.
o Get the name of the person you have spoken with and an idea of where you stand be-
fore you leave. Firm no/firm yes/call back later/I dont know. If theres any wiggle
room, wait a few days to a week and try again. (Make notes on your master list!)
o Be clear about what youre asking for! You dont want to miss an opportunity because
they think youre looking for an internship and all you need are a few practicum hours.
Notes:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________


Site Interview Questions
Your cheat sheet for the essential questions you must ask your site before you
accept. Feel free to bring it in to the interview with you, but be discreet! You
dont want it to appear like youre grilling your potential site before they have
officially offered you a position. !

How many hours can you offer your students/interns?
Do you supply clients for your students/interns?
Do you have a supervisor on-site?
(If yes) what are the supervisors credentials?
(If yes) How much is the supervision fee?
Will there be any financial compensation for my work?
What kind of counseling is done here?
What kind of clients will I see?
Whats the ratio of counseling to case management?
Can I observe sessions or groups here?
Can I conduct/create groups here?
What would my hours be?
Do any of your students stay on as interns after they graduate?
What length of time (if any) do you take interns/students for?
How many interns do you take at one time?
What will be discussed in supervision?
How much group counseling will I do in relation to individual counseling?
How much group supervision will there be in relation to individual supervision?
How do we stay in contact outside of the office?

Sites Unlimited
Contains:
Site comparisons


Site comparisons
Not sure which site to pick? Use the lists below to evaluate criteria!

Best Sites for earning income

Private Counseling Centers
Community Mental Health Services
Vocational Rehab Counseling
Career Counseling
Residential Treatment
Psych Tech Work

Best Sites for Regular Hours

Individual LPC Offices
Drug & Alcohol Counseling
School Counseling
Vocational Rehab Counseling
Career Counseling
Most Agencies


Best Sites for Crisis Work

Suicide Hotlines
Rape Crisis Centers
Crisis Pregnancy Centers
Residential Treatment Centers
Some Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers

Best Sites for obtaining client Contact Hours

Individual LPC Offices
Drug & Alcohol Counseling
Residential Treatment Centers
University Counseling Centers

Supervisor Savvy

Contains:
Supervisor Comparison
Questions to ask Your supervisor
Tips for Talking with a difficult supervisor


Supervisor Comparison
If your supervisor doesnt come with your site you may need to sort through
other potential options. Even if you only have one option, you can use this
worksheet to make sure you have gotten all your ducks in a row. Copy as
needed.

Supervisor #1 Name: _______________________________________________
Rate:_________________ No. of Interns He/She Is Currently Working With: ______
Background: ____________________________________________________
Vibe During Interview Good? YES NO
Can I Contact Supervisors Previous Interns for References? YES NO
Previous Intern Contact Info: _________________________________________

Decision: DEFINITE YES DEFINITE NO DEFINITE MAYBE !

Supervisor #2 Name: _______________________________________________
Rate:_________________ No. of Interns He/She Is Currently Working With: ______
Background: ____________________________________________________
Vibe During Interview Good? YES NO
Can I Contact Supervisors Previous Interns for References? YES NO
Previous Intern Contact Info: _________________________________________

Decision: DEFINITE YES DEFINITE NO DEFINITE MAYBE !


Questions to Ask Your supervisor
It can be really easy to panic and take the first supervisor you find. But I can-
not discourage you enough from that path. You will be with this person for
anywhere from 1 ! to 5 years. It will be on their say-so that you earn your
counseling license. As hard as it is (and I sympathize!!) its better to pass on a
bad supervisor up front and get started a little later than to pay for it down the
line.

1. Are you licensed/certified as a supervisor in this state?
2. How long have you been providing supervision?
3. How long have you been a counselor?
4. Whats your theoretical orientation?
5. Do you have a theory of supervision?
6. What do you consider to be the most important thing you teach your interns?
7. How can you be reached in an emergency? (And does it cost extra?)
8. What do you expect your interns to do?
9. How do you monitor my counseling skills? (tape recording, one-way mirrors, etc.)
10. How soon do you allow your interns to see clients?
1

11. How often do you meet for supervision?
2

12. How much group supervision is there in relation to individual supervision?
13. How many interns do you take on at a time?

1
As odd as it sounds, some supervisors can be really strange about when they will begin allowing
their interns to see clients, so be careful you have SPECIFICS on how often/soon you can see clients.
2
The following questions cross over from the site questions, because theyre important for both lists!

Tips for talking with a difficult supervisor
I hope you have an incredibly positive relationship with your counselor su-
pervisor. However, Ive heard enough stories to know that doesnt always
happen. In case you and your supervisor come into conflict, here are some tips
to help you get out of it with your career intact. (P.S. These tips will also work if
you have to have a difficult talk with a professor at school!)

1. Know what youre upset about. Is it a personality conflict, a supervision issue, or a difference
in counseling methods?
2. Dont mix up issues. Once youve decided what you need to discuss with your supervisor, fo-
cus on the major issue. If youre drawing from multiple grievances, it will weaken your main
point.
3. Go into any meeting with an open mind. The worst situations can sometimes work themselves
out when two rational people sit down determined to understand one another.
4. Use your counseling skills. Really! Counselor supervisors are people too, and they get their
feelings hurt and have egos. A little active listening, reflection, and empathy can go a looong
way.
5. Play dumb if you bring up wrongdoing on their part. When people get defensive, you get no-
where. Ask, Arent I supposed to be seeing clients by the sixth month of my training? Then
let them try to defend their wrong rather than your explaining what they did wrong. If they
still dont get it, then you can spell it out in terms of the conflict: I really cant keep pay-
ing for supervision if you wont allow me to see clients. Thats the only way I can really
learn how to do counseling.
6. Ask about their perspective. If theyre hesitant to let you do something, or if theyre practicing
questionable behavior, ask them why. Then you can either volunteer to make up the difference
(How can I earn your trust to do _________?) or gently clue them in. (I understand why you
think that _________ is a good idea, but from what Ive read _________ can mean you lose
your license.)
7. If it comes to the point where you have to get out of the situation, try your best to smooth
things over before you leave. Be diplomatic. Unfortunately, this person is in a position of
power, and you have to be careful. Exception: If they have an ethical violation, you must
choose whether or not you will report this to the proper authorities. Keep in mind: as
awkward as it is, we have an obligation to protect clients from potentially dangerous
people.
8. If you leave (before you leave) take proper documentation of your hours in supervision and in
counseling, signed by your supervisor. You may not want to talk to this person now, but think
how much worse it will be later if they hold up your application for licensure by being un-
available or refusing to sign. Your new supervisor will actually recommend you for licensure,
but if you want to keep hours earned with your former supervisor, they have to sign off on
them.

Applying for Licensure

Contains:
Applying for Licensure checklist
NCE & NCMHCE prep bibliography
Tracking Hours
Professional liability insurance providers
Tips for professional liability insurance


Applying for licensure Checklist
Before you can successfully earn your temporary license, you have to have a
few things in place! Make sure youre on track to start earning those hours.

State of Residence:________________________________________
(Mark through items on the list your state does not require.)
Transcript(s):____________________________________________
(How many? Sealed? With degree stamp? Directly from the school?)
Proof of Passing Scores on Tests:_______________________________
(NCE? NCMHCE?)
Record of supervised practicum experience:________________________
(How many hours allowed towards internship? Signature of supervisor/professor required?)
Signed Supervisor Contract:____________________________________
Additional Test(s):___________________________________________
(Jurisprudence exam?)
Additional Classes:___________________________________________
(Human sexuality? AIDS health & safety?)
Letters of Recommendation:______________________________________
(From whom? Specific forms to fill out?)
Essays/Letters of Intent:_________________________________________
(Topics? Length?)
Miscellaneous Requirements:________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________


NCE & NCMHCE Prep Bibliography
I have included all the major NCE/NCMHCE prep materials I know of, but I havent
sampled all of them. I have marked the ones I can personally recommend with an *, the rest
are simply there for your reference!

Books:
Study Guide for the National Counselor Examination and the CPCE. 6
th
Edition. An-
drew A. Helwig. 2011.
NCE Practice Questions: Practice Tests & Exam Review for the National Counselor
Examination. Mometrix Media LLC: NCE Exam Secrets Prep Team. 2010.
Mastering the National Counselor Examination and the Counselor Preparation
Comprehensive Examination. Prentice Hall: Erford, Hays, Crockett and Miller. 2010.
Encyclopedia of Counseling: Master Review and Tutorial for the National Counselor
Examination and State Exams. 3
rd
Edition. Routledge: Howard Rosenthal, 2007.*
How to Pass the National Counselor Exam...The very first time! Savvy Impressions
Publishers: Julie Maurant-Brown, 2011.*
NCMHCE Secrets Study Guide: NCMHCE Exam Review for the National Clinical
Mental Health Counseling Exam. Mometric Media LLC: NCMHCE Exam Secrets Test Prep
Team, 2011.
Study Guide for the NCMHCE Exam. Dr. Linton Hutchinson, 2011.
Websites:
Free Online NCE Tests. http://www.testprepreview.com/nce_practice.htm
NBCCs Official Study Guides for the NCE & NCMHCE. http://www.nbcc.org/study
NCE Exam Prep: Pass the National Counselor Exam Guaranteed!
http://www.nceexam.com*
Misc:
AATBS NCE National Counselor Exam Color-Coded Flashcards. Association for Advanced
Training in the Behavioral Sciences.
Golden Test Preparation: Exam Preparation for the NCE and CPCE. Workshop and/or Study
Guide CD. http://nancygoldencounselor.com


Tracking Hours
This is one option you may choose to use to keep up with your hours. Copy as
many times as you need!

Date Contact
Hours
Non-
Contact
Hours
Description/Notes

Total This Sheet:

Running Total:


Professional Liability Insurance Providers
3

During or after your practicum you will have to start thinking about which
professional liability provider you will use. I had a lot of trouble finding out
which insurance company would offer the coverage I needed. I hope that having
these places will help you avoid that trouble! I have noted below the insurance
providers only those factors that are unique; aspects each policy have in com-
mon I have left off the list.

Mental Health Counselors
CPH & Associates Professional Liability Insurance. http://www.cphins.com
Newly licensed discount, (50% off in first year, 25% off in second year) risk management
course (10% off) and internet discounts possible. (5% for completing application online) Total dis-
count cannot exceed 50%. Occurrence-based rather than claims-based insurance provider. Endorsed
by the AAMFT, AMHCA, and CSWA (Clinical Social Work Association) among others.

Healthcare Providers Service Organization. http://www.hpso.com
ACA members get 10% off. Risk management course (10% off) and 50% discount for first
year graduates. Recently added sexual misconduct & information privacy coverage. Sponsored by the
ACA Insurance Trust. HPSO is also known as CNA HealthProin some circles.

American Professional Agency, Inc. http://www.americanprofessional.com/
5% discount for risk management courses, 35% discount if part-time. Retroactive coverage is
available. Endorsed by the NASW, IACT (International Association of Counselors and Therapists)
among others.

Addiction Counselors
The Van Wagner Group. http://insure-addictioncounselor.com/
Only open to members of the NAADAC.

Social Workers
NASW Assurance Services. http://www.naswassurance.org/
Must be a member of the NASW.

School Counselors
American School Counselor Association. http://www.schoolcounselor.org (Member Benefits & Info)
Must be a member of the ASCA, but members are automatically covered for $1 million. Addi-
tional options available.

Marriage & Family Therapists
See Mental Health Counselors.

3
This list includes all companies I could find with websites explicitly stating that they provide cover-
age for mental health counselors. You may also be able to find coverage under other organizations as
well by calling the company directly.


Tips for success with professional liability insurance

1. Check your state counselor (or social worker or marriage & family therapist) association,
as they often have policies available to counselors who practice in your state.
2. Coverage as a life coach or general consultant is not good enough. Make sure your pol-
icy is for a counselor. [Or social worker, or marriage and family therapist]
3. Do NOT practice outside your scope of licensure. Your insurance provider will not cover
you for this.
4. Professional Liability Insurance is also known as Errors & Omissions Insurance, but
usually only for professionals like lawyers & brokers.
5. You still need your own insurance even if your employer is insured.

Marketing Yourself as a beginning Coun-
selor

Contains:
My target population
My unique skills
My platform
Client attraction methods
Marketing ethics checklist
Recommended reading: marketing Books


My Target population
In chapter five of The Beginning Counselors Survival Guide, I talk to you a
little about developing your target market with some key questions: Who,
What, When, Where, Why and How. Now, were going to start answering some
of those questions!

Who: ___________________________________________________________
Answer the questions: What ages do I want to see? What gender, ethnicity, family struc-
ture, profession, what types of problems do they have?
What:___________________________________________________________
Answer the question: LPCC, LMFT, LADC.?
When:___________________________________________________________
Answer the question: What time of day or week will my target market be available?
Where: __________________________________________________________
Answer the questions: What kind of setting do I work in? (And later) What kind of place
do I want to work in?
Why:____________________________________________________________
Answer the question: Why do I care about working with this people group?
How: ___________________________________________________________
Answer the question: What kind of counseling will I be doing?


My Unique Skills
Look backwards to plan for your future!

What prior jobs and careers have you had? _________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

What kind of training did you receive at these jobs? ____________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Include any relevant awards or certifications:________________________________

How can you use these skills to advance your counseling? ________________________
_______________________________________________________________

How can you use these skills to advance your business? _________________________
_______________________________________________________________

What personal qualities do you have that will make you a great counselor? ____________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________


My Platform
Not just about world peace anymore
"Platform" is what you bring to the profession. Now share yours!

Lets recap:
Whos your target population?
Ex: New counselors
_______________________________________________________________
Now, in a nutshell, what does this group of people want?
Ex: Practical answers to get started in their careers.
_______________________________________________________________
What do they want from you or your service specifically?
Ex: Encouragement, hope, support.
_______________________________________________________________
How are you going to give it to them?
Ex: A fabulous website, how-to book, practical workbook & killer social networking!
_______________________________________________________________
Now, you need a hook:
What words sum up best what you have to offer? Feel free to brainstorm here, it may take a
little work to develop just the right name or slogan for yourself.
4

Ex: Beginning Counselor
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

4
Even if you havent started marketing in earnest, you need to know what you have to offer. Coming
up with a catchphrase is an essential aspect of this!


Client Attraction Methods
How are you going to use your platform to reach your target population?

Lets Review:
Your population:___________________ Their desires: _____________________
What you have to offer them:__________________________________________
Your essential message:__________________________________________
How can you use the following to reach them?
Print (Published articles, paid print ads, etc.): _____________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Social Networking (Twitter, Facebook): _________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Public Speaking (Community events, groups): _____________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Writing (Blogging, Books, Workbooks, etc.): ______________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Online Marketing (Online ads, webinars, groups etc.): _______________________
_____________________________________________________________
Networking (Other healthcare professionals, joint ventures): ___________________
_____________________________________________________________

Now, go back and rank each of these methods in order of importance. Which ideas stand
out as the most promising? Which fit best into your budget right now? Which ideas best
capture your message?


Marketing ethics checklist
Make sure your advertising efforts meet ethical standards!

From the ACA Code of Ethics
! Accurate?
! Exclude any testimonials from current clients or those who might be especially vul-
nerable?
! Include only true statements about you as a counselor or the profession of counsel-
ing?
! Refrain from recruiting clients for private practice through another place of em-
ployment?
! Disclose adequate information for the consumer to make an informed decision?
! Refrain from unduly pressuring a supervisee or client to purchase your product?
! Differentiate between an earned and an honorary degree?
! Clarify highest counseling-related degree earned only, even if you possess a higher
degree in another field?
! Disclose accreditation status of schools attended at time of attendance, if this in-
formation is included?
! Distinguish between current and past professional memberships?

From the AAMFT Code of Ethics

! Conveys information that is necessary for the public to select professional services,
such as office location, languages spoken, description of practice, etc? (See point
8.2 for full description.)
! Does not contain a claim you are a partner or associate of a firm if you are not?
! Does not claim to be a provider of specialized services without having the proper
education, training and supervision?


Recommended reading
My favorite marketing and business books!

Atkin, Douglas. The Culting of Brands.
Get this book if you want to turn your brand into a movement!

Diana, David P. Marketing For the Mental Health Professional.
Get this book if you want to find innovative marketing ideas for the mental health profes-
sional.

Eager, William. The Complete Idiots Guide to Online Marketing.
Get this book if you want a clear basic overview of your options in online advertising.

Godin, Seth. Free Prize Inside!
Get this book if you want to learn how to make your business exciting and relevant.

Grodzky, Lynn. Building Your Ideal Private Practice: How to Love What You Do And Be Highly
Profitable Too!
Get this book if you want to makeover your existing private practice or start off on the right
foot!

Meerman, Scott David. The New Rules of Marketing and PR.
Get this book to learn how to make good use of social media, press releases, podcasts, and
much more!

Walker, June. Self-Employed Tax Solutions.
Get this book if youre going to have a sole proprietorship or work as an independent contrac-
tor and want to make sure your taxes are audit-proof!

Choices in counseling

Contains:
Types & Limits of Licensure


Types and Limits of licensure
Considering which licensing option youd like to pursue? Look no further!

Licensed Professional Counselor
5
(LPC) Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, (LPCC)
Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health, (LPCMH) Licensed Mental Health Coun-
selor, (LMHC) Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, (LCPC) Certified Professional
Counselor
6
, (CPC) Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, (LCMHC) and Licensed Pro-
fessional Counselor-Mental Health. (LPC-MH): Conducts individual & group therapy, must
have a masters degree and state licensure to practice. Helps people express themselves,
identify non-helpful behaviors, clarify client goals, teaches coping skills, maintains confiden-
tiality, intervenes in crisis situations, provides homework when appropriate, and otherwise
practices therapeutic skills within their theoretical orientation.

School Counselor/Guidance Counselor: Works within elementary and secondary education
to create a school counseling program that enhances student's academic, social and personal
development, as well as counseling individual students. Responsible for preventative and re-
sponsive implementation of health and wellness treatment. Can also work as district
supervisors. Must create and/or ensure compliance with goals for the school and for student
development. Will consult with parents and teachers to provide unified treatment goals.
Must have a masters degree and state licensure.

Career Counselor: Requires a minimum of a bachelors degree to practice. Helps others find
the right career path for them, including administering certain vocational aptitude tests. Of-
ten works with graduating students to help them locate a good job for them. May liaise with
businesspeople in the community to help their clients find jobs or training. May also work
through negative work experiences with the client to better prepare them for future work life.

5
There are currently 120,429 LPC providers in the United States according to "2011 Statistics on
Mental Health Professionals," a report by the American Counseling Association.
6
This term is mostly extinct.


Types and Limits of licensure Continued

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
7
(LMFT) Licensed Clinical Marriage & Family Thera-
pist, (LCMFT) Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner, (LIMHP): MFTs receive
additional training in family systems as well as traditional psychotherapy methods. What
that means is though they may treat the individual, they treat him or her in the context of the
family system.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
8
(LCSW) Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker,
(LICSW) Licensed Independent Social Worker, (LISW) Private Independent Practitioner,
(PIP) Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, (LCSW-C) and Licensed Master Social
Worker (LMSW): While a clinical social worker who specializes in counseling will have most
or all of the same skills as a professional counselor, LCSW counselors are generally oriented
towards promoting social and group welfare. In contrast to LPCs, they may focus less on in-
dividual self-exploration. As compared to LMFTs, they are likely to place less emphasis on
the family system and more on the family's function in society. However, among all of these
professional divisions, the social work counselor is the most difficult to describe. The defini-
tion is so elastic, the best way to say it may be that it is up to the person holding the license to
create their role.

Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), Certified Alcohol and other Drugs of
Addiction Counselor, (CADC) Certified Addiction Professional, (CAP) Addiction Treatment
Counselor, (ATC) Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, (LCDC): Counsels individuals,
families and groups. Responsible for mediation among patients, families and agencies, and
encouraging treatment compliance. Expected to perform routine screenings and assessments
as well as case management. Needs a minimum of a bachelors degree to practice, along with
experience and state certification. Different levels of certification available.

7
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists in the U.S. in 2011 numbered 54,785 according to ACA re-
port.
8
Clinical Social Workers in the U.S. in 2011 numbered 202,924 according to ACA report.


A day in the life of a beginning counselor

Contains:
Office supply list
Public Privacy notice
Example of Counseling Notes

Office supply list
Ready to set up your first office? Heres all you need to get started!

Seating for at least three people (you & a couple, you and a parent/child) with room
for extra seats if needed.
Desk and desk chair if possible.
2-3 end tables
At least 2 clocks, one in your line of sight and one in the clients.
A lamp with several light levels.
1-2 Kleenex boxes.
2 trash cans, one by your desk and one by the client.
Coasters, if youre worried about your end tables.
Crayons/markers and a drawing pad, for kids.
Notepads and pens.
A stand for your business cards.
Public Privacy Notice (Print your own on the next page!)
Your temporary license.
Your diploma. (Optional)
The DSM-IV.
Bookshelf. (Optional)
Demographic or specialty-specific tools. Example: If you regularly see kids, youll
probably want to invest in board games, modeling clay and a play therapy kit.


To protect their privacy, I do not ac-
knowledge clients I see in public. If you
choose to speak with me, Id be glad to
talk to you!


Example of Notes
The next two pages contain reproducible notes you can print on your com-
puter and copy as many times as you like to hand-write your notes in the
provided spaces. Or, you can type a similar structure into your word processor
and use it as a template! Be aware that your site may require you include more
information than is listed on my example notes.


Client Name: _____________________________
Date: _____________________
Counselor Name: __________________________

Subjective: ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Objective: ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Assessment: _____________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Plan: __________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________


Client Name: _____________________________
Date: _____________________
Counselor Name: __________________________

______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________

The First Session

Contains:
Example Professional disclosure statement


Stephanie A. Adams, M.A., LPC-Intern
Family Counseling Center Counselor-In-Training
<Email Address>
<Phone Number>

Professional Disclosure Statement <Example>

Counseling Relationship: Please feel free to call me Stephanie. Your child is welcome to call
me Stephanie, Miss Stephanie, or Mrs. Adams. I do not believe in one-up counseling; I view myself
as on the same level as each and every one of my clients. I simply am here to offer the benefit of my
training to help your life however I can. My job is to be objective; therefore I cannot accept invitations
to social events, gifts or services or write references for you. I care about all of my clients, but in order
to provide you with the best service possible, ours must be a professional relationship only.

Effects of Counseling: At any time, feel free to talk to me about possible positive or negative
effects of continue or discontinuing counseling. Of course, I expect you to benefit from counseling,
but I cannot guarantee any specific results. My commitment to you is to work with you towards the
best possible outcome for your goals. Some clients achieve their goals in only a few counseling ses-
sions, whereas others may require months or even years of counseling. As the client, you are in
complete control and may end our counseling relationship at any time. However, I would request that
if you do decide to end counseling that you participate in a terminations session in order that our rela-
tionship receives closure.
You have the right to ask questions about the basis for suggestions I might make concerning
your problem, and also the right to refuse to follow these suggestions. If this situation becomes com-
mon, I may begin a discussion with you about referring to another counselor who might be better
suited to you personally.
Since counseling deals with difficult issues, at times it may bring up painful feelings, including
guilt, discomfort, anxiety, anger or frustration. Since you are changing, your relationships with other
people are likely to change as result of your growth. Such occurrences are normal and will usually
pass, however, please let me know if these feelings become significantly more troubling, and I will be
happy to work with you to minimize the impact whenever possible.

Payment: A fee will be agreed upon at the first session and due at the beginning of each ses-
sion. We require 24 hours notice in order to cancel an appointment in order to give me a chance to fill
your spot with someone else. If we have less than 24 hours notice for a cancellation or no-show, you
will be responsible for the full session fee. Certain unavoidable circumstances will provide an excep-
tion to this rule, however, the fee should be considered due unless I have stated otherwise.

Confidentiality: Discussions between you and I, and even the fact that you are in counseling
with me, are confidential. For this reason, if I see you in public, I will protect your confidentiality by
greeting you only if you greet me first. Though I enjoy interacting with my clients, if I come across
you in public and introduce myself to other people that you or I may be with as your counselor, that
will violate your privacy. If you dont have a problem with people around us knowing our relation-
ship, please feel free to greet me!
I may only break your confidentiality without your consent if you reveal abuse of an elder,
child or disabled person, or in order to protect you in the case of suicidality. If you are suicidal, I am
bound by law to report the situation in order that your life be protected. If I feel this is necessary, I
will inform you of my intent to do so as the situation is occurring. I cannot contact anyone but the po-


lice under these circumstances. If you would wish me to also contact a family member or friend,
please provide their name and number at the end of the form.
Couples in counseling together have confidentiality in individual sessions unless otherwise
agreed in writing.
Please do not request or subpoena me to testify in court on your behalf. In a court room, confi-
dentiality is effectually non-existent and I will be subject to answering any question I am asked by
either side with no opportunity to put it in context or defend you in any way. This destroys the rela-
tionship of trust necessary for counseling to succeed. If you are looking for someone to testify on
your behalf, I request that you look elsewhere for that purpose. In the occasion that testifying becomes
unavoidable, my hourly rate applies for each hour spent in court.

Client Rights: I render counseling services in a professional manner consistent with accepted
ethical standards. If at any time for any reason you are dissatisfied with my services, please let me
know. I would like to have a chance to see if the complaint can be resolved to your satisfaction. If I
am not able to resolve your concerns, you may report your complaints to my supervisor, Dr. Carol
Doss.

Emergency Contact Information*
Name Telephone Number

I consent for Stephanie A. Adams, M.A., LPC-Intern, to contact this person if she believes me to be in
imminent danger to myself or others.

_______________________________________________________ Date: _____________________

* If this space is left blank no one will be contacted in case of emergency outside of legal authorities.

I have read and agree to the terms set out in the professional disclosure statement of the preceding two
pages, and understand the conditions outlined for me.

Client Signature Date

__________________________________________________________________________________

Boundaries in the Therapeutic Relationship

Contains:
Defining your Boundaries
Is my client ready to terminate?

Defining your boundaries
Whats allowed in your office? There is no one right answer to any of these
questions. There is only what you are comfortable with and what allows you to
be the healthiest therapist.

What will you do if a client arrives late to their session? ____________________________________
(Keep the session, just start it later; Keep only the remaining session time; Reschedule, etc.)

_________________________________________________________________________________

Under what circumstances will you waive/lower fees? _____________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Will you allow guests of the client into your session? ______________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Can your clients talk on the cell phone during your session? ________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Are non-client children allowed in your office during parents sessions? ______________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Which of your phone numbers will your clients have access to? _____________________________

How long is too long to talk to a client on the phone (outside of a phone session?)_______________

________________________________________________________________________________

Which hours will you keep unavailable to clients (outside of emergencies?)____________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Whats your policy about contact with clients over Facebook? ______________________________

Over personal email addresses? ______________________________________________________

Over Twitter? ____________________________________________________________________

Under what circumstances would you visit a client in their homes? __________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

IS My client ready to terminate?
It can be difficult when youre starting out to determine whether or not you
and your client are finished with your work together. And of course, different
theories promote different ideas of wellness. My interpretation of readiness to
terminate is based primarily on cognitive-behavioral therapy. Adapt my ques-
tions below to meet your needs.

Have my client and I accomplished the goals the client came into counseling with?
If yes If no
" "

#

If yes If no
$ % #

& If therapeutic

& If conversational

"

Has my client cancelled or no-showed more often recently?

If yes If no
$ %

If yes If no
" "

Remember termination is an emotional and stressful time for a client. Be patient and be
available while youre moving them out of a counseling relationship. Affirm the great strides
theyve made to get to this point!
Are there any further
goals the client has
stated?
Re-focus on goals.
Continue work
on new goals.
Is the content of
your sessions
currently more
therapeutic or
conversational?
Say, Weve been meeting
for a while now. Is there
something else you want
to accomplish in therapy?
Call your client
and ask (in a
non-threatening
manner) if there
is any reason for
this pattern.
Not a sign of time
for termination.
Work on that.
Discuss termination
with your client.

Population Primer

Contains:
Overcoming Population Challenges

Overcoming Population challenges
Ideally, we would be equally comfortable and competent with all populations.
In reality, though, no one is perfectly at ease with every group of people. Thats
why its important to identify any vulnerabilities you may have in this area so
that you can begin to work to improve them.

Of the following populations mentioned in the text, which do you think will be the most chal-
lenging for you to work with? (Circle 1-3 of the following groups.)
Play Therapy Game Therapy Adolescent College Student
Middle-Aged Elderly Different Ethnic/Cultural Spiritual
GLBTQI Suicidal

Of the groups you have circled, would you define anything more specifically about what
exactly is difficult for you more clearly? (Example: Perhaps you are comfortable with mid-
dle-school boys but dont know what to do with middle-school girls.) If so, write below.
Group #1: _______________________________________________________
Group #2: _______________________________________________________
Group #3: _______________________________________________________

What about these particular groups are challenging for you? _____________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
(Is it just because they are different? Do you feel untrained? Do you have bad memories associated with any
certain group of people?)

Are the challenges you have with this something you believe you should overcome?
9

YES NO

If no, why not? ____________________________________________________________________

Are these challenges something you can overcome? YES NO

9
For example, in the scenario we discussed with middle-school girls, there is nothing unethical or
overly problematic with focusing your treatment on boys instead of girls.

Overcoming Population challenges Page 2

If no, why not? ____________________________________________________________________

Are you in a position where it is unethical
10
for you to not treat a member of one of these groups of
people? YES NO

Which of the following broad options might you take to improve your comfort and competency levels
with a group or groups you are challenged by? (Circle one.)

READ/RESEARCH VOLUNTEER SPEND TIME WITH PEOPLE IN GROUP

SEEK THE ADVICE OF ANOTHER COUNSELOR SEEK COUNSELING

OTHER:______________________________

What specific action steps based on the broader options above might you take to improve your capa-
bility with populations that are problematic for you?

Group #1 Name: __________________________________________
Action Step #1: _________________________________________
Action Step #2: _________________________________________
Group #2 Name: __________________________________________
Action Step #1: _________________________________________
Action Step #2: _________________________________________
Group #3 Name: __________________________________________
Action Step #1: _________________________________________
Action Step #2: _________________________________________

10
If youre not sure, check with your supervisor and/or professor. And if it is unethical for you to re-
fuse to treat them, take appropriate actions to overcome your challenges with them or remove yourself
from the situation immediately.

Counselor, Heal Thyself!

Contains:
Countertransference
Do I give too much?

Countertransference
Sometimes it is difficult to identify countertransference in ourselves. We may
have a vague feeling of uneasiness around a certain person or situation, but not
a clear idea of why. If you have a situation that has been challenging for you,
walk through the questions below to see if you might be dealing with counter-
transference.

Have you already identified any triggers you have that related to past problems in your life?

YES NO

If yes, what are those triggers? _________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

If no, have you noticed yourself feeling any of the following emotional responses during a counseling
session?

FEAR INTENSE DISLIKE INTENSE LIKE RAGE LOSS

ANXIETY HOPELESSNESS REPULSION DESIRE TO ESCAPE

Or, has something a client said or done triggered a flashback-like response? YES NO
Any response is likely countertransference. No response is likely not countertransference.

What was the trigger for the flashback or emotional response? _______________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Do you know why you had that response? YES NO
If yes, continue, if no, seek counseling and supervision to discover why you had that reaction.

Why did you have the response you did? _________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Is this response likely to repeat itself? YES NO
If yes, consult your supervisor: you may need to refer your client to another counselor.

Only you can decide what to do about a potential countertransference situation. But keep in mind it is
your ethical and moral responsibility not to allow it to impact the client. Whether that's getting coun-
seling for yourself, referring the client out, seeking supervision, or all of the above, don't hesitate to do
it. You owe it to your client, and to yourself, to be a healthy counselor.

Do I give Too Much?
A quick questionnaire.

1. When you give additional services to your clients (being available after-hours, last-minute
appointments) is this decision thought out before hand or made on the spur of the moment?
a. Before b. Spur-of-the-moment
2. When a client complains about an aspect of your counseling (lack of immediate results, cost of
sessions, etc.) do you shrug it off or feel guilty about their disappointment?
a. Shrug it off b. Feel guilty
3. Do you find yourself often thinking about work when you are off the clock?
a. Not often b. All the time
4. Do you think that your actions directly control the outcome for the client?
a. I play a part. b. If I screw up, I could ruin their lives forever
5. How often do you set boundaries with clients and/or with your agency?
a. When I need to b. I can't say no, they need me
6. Do you have a resource that feeds you spiritually, emotionally, interpersonally and/or physically?
a. I have great friends, meditate and run every morning b. No

Mostly a: You feel fairly in control of your boundaries and rarely feel overwhelmed by client needs.

Mostly b: You frequently feel overwhelmed by client needs and are on a path to burnout.

Note from Stephanie: It may feel selfish to balance how much you give to others, especially your cli-
ents. But when you give too much, you dramatically shorten the time you can counsel before
experiencing burnout. Healthy give-and-take with your client helps extend your career so you can
help more people longer.

Refining Your Counseling Style

Contains:
My myers-briggs counselor profile

My Myers-Briggs counselor Profile
What does your personality say about your skills as a counselor? Under-
line the term in bold that corresponds to your results, and then circle the
characteristics following that you identify with. When you're done write the cir-
cled characteristics in the space provided at the bottom of the page, and you will
have your Myers-Briggs Counselor Profile.

Introverted: Best one-on-one Needs time to "recharge" after excessive interpersonal contact
Observes first, then talks Process things internally
Extroverted: Gains energy the more people they interact with Jumps into a conversation easily
Can talk more than the client Process things externally (with other people)
Intuitive: Strength in insight Enjoys theories "Big-picture" More abstract
Enjoys inspiring others Future-oriented Innovative
Sensing: Strength in concrete examples Reality-based Experiential Black-and-
white thinkers Detail-oriented Present-oriented Step-by-step
Thinking: Logical Can be perceived as harsh Clear and easy-to-understand Good
boundaries Likes guidelines
Feeling: Emotional Can have trouble with emotional boundaries Empathetic Perceptive
Perceiving: Spontaneous Interactions Favors less structure "In-the-moment" May
dislike note-taking & record-keeping Easy-going Last-minute
Judging: Reliable Favors more structure Organized Dislikes feeling out of control
Your Profile: (The combination of characteristics circled) ___________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

What does this tell you about your strengths & weaknesses as a counselor? ____________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Preventing Burnout

Contains:
Why I became a counselor

Why I Became A Counselor
What is it that made you choose to become a counselor? What motivation do
you have to continue growing in the field? This may seem a silly question right
now, as youre just starting out, but before long knowing the answer to this
question may be the very thing that helps you prevent burnout in your career.

Storytime! In a book, the inciting incident is the occurrence that gets the story going.
Think when John Hammond showed up at the dig to invite Dr. Alan Grant to review his
new project in Jurassic Park. If that hadnt happened, neither would anything else that
had followed. Describe for me your own inciting incident.
_____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
After that, was there any other option for you but to become a counselor?
_______________________________________________________________________________
If there was, why didnt you take it?
_______________________________________________________________________________
What idea keeps you going when you dont feel like studying anymore?
______________________________________________________________
Whats your mission in being a counselor?
______________________________________________________________

Your Future as a Professional Counselor

Contains:
My Dreams for the Future

My dreams for the future
What do you want to do with your counseling career? How do you want to see
it grow and change as you gain more experience? What new developments
would you like to get on board with?

What is it you want to accomplish in the counseling field?
______________________________________________________________
Which areas of counseling have you not yet explored that you would someday like to?
Coaching Consulting Giving Workshops Supervision Webinars
Books E-books Teaching Audio Courses Training Programs
Group Counseling Animal-assisted Therapy Art Therapy
Play Therapy Family Therapy Career Guidance College Counseling
School Counseling Telemental Health Research Legislation
Other:
______________________________________________________________
How is it you would like to impact your clients lives?
_______________________________________________________________________________
When someday you retire, what would you like for people to say about the time you spent
as a counselor?
_______________________________________________________________________________

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