DESCRIPTIVE DEFINITION OF THE ATTRIBUTES

Empathy. Is the ability to communicate understanding of another person’s

experience from that person’s perspective (Postings and Kopp, 2017). Additionally,
Foster (1996) and Guy (1987) (as cited by Gladding, 2013) stated that empathy is the
ability to put oneself in another’s place, even if that person is totally different from you.

Active Listening . It is the ability to follow what clients is saying and knowing
how to respond to it (Gladdings, 2015). It is also the ability to find listening stimulating
(Foster and Guy as cited by Gladding, 2013).

Goodwill. It is the desire to work on behalf of clients in a constructive way

(Cornier, Nurius and Osborn cited by Gladding, 2013). The ability to set aside personal
needs to listen and take care of other’s need first (Foster and Guy cited by Gladding,
2013).

Trustworthiness. It means honoring the trust placed in the practitioner (also

referred to as fidelity (Postings and Kopp, 2017). It is the ability to safeguard clients’
communications and encourage clients’ self-disclosure with assurance of confidentiality
(Hackney & Cormier, 2001).

Social Relaxation. Is a lack of anxiety or apprehension in everyday social

interactions; a feeling of comfort, low apprehension and ability to handle another’s
negative reaction or criticism without undue stress (Rubin and Martin, 2016).

Integrity and Sincerity. It a personal commitment to consistency between

what is professed and what is done. It is a commitment to being moral in dealings with
others, personal straightforwardness, honesty and coherence (Postings and Kopp,
2017).

Self-Assurance and Control. Knowledge of self, including attitudes, values,

and feeling and the ability recognize how and what factors affect oneself ( Hansen as
cited by Gladdings, 2013).

Enthusiasm and Humor. The capability of seeing the bittersweet quality of life
events and the humor in them. Foster and Guy (cited by Gladding, 2013). It is the
ability to be active in sessions and sustain that activity even when one sees a number of
clients in a row (Cornier, Nurius and Osborn cited by Gladding, 2013).