TECHNIQUES OF COUNSELING

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1 INTRODUCTION

Counseling is a specialied service of guidance and basically an enabling process, designed to help an
individual come to terms with his her life and grow to greater maturity through learning to take
responsibility and to make decisions for himself herself.

It is helping process where one person, purposefully gives his her attention and skills to assist a client to
explore the situation, identify and act upon solution.

It is a method that helps the clients to use a problem solving process to recognize and manage stress that
facilitate interpersonal relationship among client family and health care team .

DEFINITION
Counseling is a dynamic and purposeful relationship between two people, who approach a
mutually defined problems with mutual consideration of each other to the end that the troubled one or less
mature is aided to a self 'determined resolutions of his problems.

TECHNIQUES OF COUNSELING - The three major techniques used in counselling process in

schools. The techniques are:

(1) Directive Counselling,

(2) Non-Directive Counselling,

(3) Eclectic Counselling.

1. Directive Counselling:- In this counselling the counsellor plays an active role as it is regarded as a
means of helping people how to learn to solve their own problems. This type of counselling is otherwise
known as co-centred counselling. Because in this counselling the counsellor does everything himself i.e.
analysis, synthesis, diagnosis, prognosis, prescription and follow-up. Features of Directive Counselling: It
has the following features: During the interview attention is focused upon a particular problem and
possibilities for its solution. 2. During the interview the counsellor plays a more active role than the client or
pupil. 3. The pupil or client makes the decision, but the counsellor does all that he can to get the counselee
or client makes a decision in keeping with his diagnosis. 4. The counsellor tries to direct the thinking of the
counsellee or client by informing, explaining, interpreting and advising him. Steps in Directive Counselling:
The following steps are followed in this type of counselling: (i) Analysis: In this step data is collected from a
variety of sources for an adequate understanding of the pupil. (ii) Synthesis: This step implies organizing
and summarising the data to find out the assets, liabilities, adjustments and mal-adjustments of the pupil.
(iii) Diagnosis: Formulating conclusions regarding the nature and causes of the problems expressed by the
pupils is the major concern of this step. (iv) Prognosis: This step implies predicting the future development
 of the problem of client or pupil. (v) Counselling: This step indicates taking steps by the counsellor with the
pupil to bring about adjustment in life. (vi)Follow-up: This step implies helping and determining the
effectiveness of the counselling provided to the pupil or client. Role of the counsellor in Directive
Counseling: situation.
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2. Non-Directive Counselling: In this type of counselling the counselee or client or pupil, not the
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counsellor is the pivot of the counselling process. He plays an active role and this type of counselling is a
growing process. In this counselling the goal is the independence and integration of the client rather than the
solution of the problem. In this counselling process the counsellee comes to the counsellor with a problem.
The counsellor establishes rapport with the counsellee based on mutual trust, acceptance and understanding.
The counsellee provides all information about his problems. The counsellor assists him to analyze and
synthesise, diagnose his difficulties, predict the future development of his problems, take a decision about
the solution of his problems; and analyse the strengths and consequences of his solutions before taking a
final decision. Since the counsellee is given full freedom to talk about his problems and work out a solution,
this technique is also called the “permissive” counselling. Pupil’s perception of the relationship: When a
pupil seeks the counsellor’s help, he soon discovers that the counsellor accepts him as he is and believes in
his ability to solve his problem in his own way.

3. Eclectic Counselling: Eclectic counselling is a combination of directive and non-directive technique

depending upon the situational factors. This approach in counselling is best characterised by its freedom to
the counsellor to use whatever procedures or techniques seem to be the most appropriate to any particular
time for any particular client. The counsellor in this counselling may start with directive technique but
switches over to non-directive counselling if the situation requires. He may also start with the non-directive
technique and switches over to directive techniques if the situation demands. So the counsellor in this
counselling makes use of directive and non-directive counselling and also of any other type which may be
considered useful for the purpose of modifying the ideas and attitudes of the counsellee. Hence it is possible
for the counsellor to alternate between directive and non-directive techniques depending upon the
requirements of the situation. It can be said that directive and non-directive counselling are at the opposite
ends of the pole of guidance. It is eclectic counselling that bridges the gap between the two and makes
adjustment between directive and non-directive techniques. Features/Characteristics of Eclectic Counselling:
This counselling has the following features or characteristics of it: 1. Methods of counselling may change
from counselee to counselee or even with the same client from time to time. 2. Flexibility is the key note of
this counselling. 3. Freedom of choice and expression is open to both, the counsellor and the client. 4. The
client and the philosophical framework are adjusted to serve the purposes of the relationship. 5. Experience
of mutual confidence and faith in the relationship are basic. 6. Feelings of comfort are essential. Competence
of the Counsellor in Eclectic Counselling: . The competent eclectic counsellor is well acquainted with all
other major theories of philosophies in counselling and uses this knowledge in choosing techniques and in
the establishment of a positive working relationship with the client. . The counsellor must be aware of the
fact that problems differ from individual to individual. The counsellee or the pupil must be accepted as he is
and attempts be made to understand him. Each problem must be treated as unique. m

7 Characteristics of an Effective Counselor

 Be organized within your practice. ...
 Practice ethically and professionally. ...
 Educate yourself. ...
 Be confident in your position and responsibility. ...
 Be respectful and non-judgmental. ...
  Understand the importance of communication. ...
 Have a flexible attitude.

PROBLEM IN COUNSELLING
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3 Mental health counselor challenges are an often-overlooked aspect of the profession, and they can
significantly impact both physical and emotional well-being. Left unaddressed, the most common challenges
can affect how well you’re able to do your job. Knowing how to set boundaries, practice self-care for
therapists, and implement other strategies can help.

Read on to learn how to combat common counseling challenges and be the best therapist possible for your
patients.

Common problems faced by counselors include things like:

 Finding work-life balance

 Client resistance and lack of engagement
 Multicultural competence
 Vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress
 Professional development
 Burnout
 Confidentiality and ethical dilemmas
 Crisis intervention
 Limited resources
 Emotional resilience
 Insurance limitations

1. Finding Work-Life Balance

As a mental health professional, one common challenge most therapists face is finding work-life balance.
Everything from long hours to high caseloads to emotionally draining sessions makes the role of a therapist
incredibly taxing. So, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a critical skill for you to master.

Strategies to help you find work-life balance — you can enhance your therapist work-life balance by:

 Setting boundaries between personal and professional life

 Prioritizing self care practices
 Engaging in hobbies

2. Client Resistance and Lack of Engagement

Lack of client engagement is one of the hardest challenges of being a therapist. There are many reasons for a
client not to engage in their treatment. They may not want to be there — for example, if their therapy is
court-ordered — or they might be in denial or unable to accept what’s happening in their life at the moment
— which might be likely if they or someone they love has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. They
could’ve had a negative therapy experience in the past, as well. Client resistance can look like someone
who’s:

 Unresponsive to your questions

 Unwilling to share personal information
 Resistant to “going deep” with you
 Adverse to following through with your treatment recommendations
 Strategies to help you — some ways to re-engage clients include:

 Building rapport and trust by showing empathy

 Using motivational interviewing techniques
 Exploring the underlying cause of the resistance
Page |  Going back to the basics and providing psychoeducation about the benefits therapy can offer
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Why it’s so essential: When you help your clients engage with their treatment, you’re helping them grow in
their recovery, which is why you chose this profession in the first pla

3. Multicultural Competence

When you’re equipped to work with clients from diverse backgrounds, you’ll be able to overcome common
counselor challenges by understanding and respecting different cultures. Developing cultural sensitivity
helps you recognize your own biases and limitations — some of which you may not even be aware of — so
you can be sensitive to others’ perspectives.

Strategies to help you — you can assume and enhance your multicultural competence by:

 Actively seeking out education on various cultures

 Being open to learning from clients

Why it’s so essential: Culturally adapted interventions can help you improve treatment for superior health
outcomes.

4. Vicarious Trauma and Secondary Traumatic Stress

One of the biggest counseling challenges for many mental health professionals is learning to manage
vicarious trauma or secondary traumatic stress. This can occur when you have clients who’ve experienced
significant or distressing trauma. The reaction can be similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can
manifest in intrusive thoughts or dreams connected to a client’s experiences.

Strategies to help you — you can prevent vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress as a mental
health professional by:

 Making self care a priority

 Creating clear boundaries
 Seeking professional help from a trusted colleague
 Participating in professional development opportunities that focus on managing vicarious trauma
 Maintaining a strong support network

Why it’s so essential: Recognizing the signs of secondary traumatic stress early on, and implementing
coping strategies proactively, will ensure you can continue providing quality care while protecting your
emotional well-being.

5. Professional Development
Looking for ways to become a better therapist? Don’t stop learning. Mental health professionals must
continue building competencies and understanding to deliver the best care and services. By staying current
 and up-to-date with new trends, developments, and research in the field, you can enhance your skills as a
therapist.

Strategies to help you — there are several ways to keep up with your professional development, including:

Page |  Attending relevant education events

5  Joining professional associations that offer continuing education opportunities
 Staying informed of the latest research and studies
 Pursuing new certifications and advanced degrees
 Creating a network of colleagues you can share ideas with

Why it’s so essential: Professional development is crucial in the mental health field — it lets you keep up
with the newest information, trends, and therapies so you can provide effective treatment plans best-tailored
to every client’s needs.

6. Burnout

It’s not uncommon for mental health professionals to suffer from burnout — it’s one of the most prevalent
problems faced by counselors. A recent study by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that
almost half (45%) of mental health practitioners have signs of burnout. This is often due to the intense
emotional requirements of your job, but it can also be attributed to long work hours and heavy patient loads.

Strategies to help you — fortunately, there are several things you can do to help you effectively
manage therapist burnout before it becomes a problem. Try the following:

 Prioritizing hobbies, relaxation, and spending time with friends and people you enjoy
 Creating and enforcing boundaries to ensure you’re taking enough “me time”
 Getting support from others who understand counselor challenges
 Focusing on healthy living habits like eating well, getting enough sleep, and working out to balance
your stress and anxiety

Why it’s so essential: Tackling and avoiding burnout is crucial if you want a long career as a therapist. If
you don’t learn to manage symptoms of burnout, you can’t possibly do as much for your clients as you want
to.

7. Confidentiality and Ethical Dilemmas

Almost every therapist realizes that confidentiality and ethical dilemmas are some of the most challenging
aspects of the job. You might need to break confidentiality if one of your clients intends to harm themselves
or others.

While every potential breach of confidentiality must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, staying informed
on ethical guidelines — for example, those set forth by the professional organization American
Psychological Association (APA) — will help guide your decisions.

Strategies to help you — in addition to following the APA guidelines, if you’re struggling with an ethical
or confidentiality dilemma with a patient, you can also try:

 Attending seminars or sessions geared toward knowledge of current standards

 Seeking consultation from a supervisor, colleague, or another trusted member of the profession to
gain valuable insight
 Why it’s so essential: Staying on top of the ethical challenges of counseling will help you feel confident if
you ever need to make difficult decisions in the best interest of your clients. It’ll ensure you can provide
responsible, effective services.

8. Crisis Intervention
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6 If you ever face a client in crisis — for example, someone having suicidal thoughts or expressing self-harm
tendencies — you need to be able to think quickly and have proven intervention strategies ready to go.

Strategies to help you — strategies for addressing patients in crisis can include:

 Educating yourself on intervention techniques through workshops, seminars, or online resources

 Creating a safety plan that’s personalized for high-risk patients that you can instantly deploy if ever
needed
 Outlining coping strategies, support networks, and emergency contacts for high-risk patients (before
they’re needed)
 Collaborating with other professionals you trust to review your response and be a sounding board

Why it’s so essential: Being able to put in place timely interventions might prevent a client from harming
themself — it may even potentially save a life. Be ready to address critical situations by offering immediate
support before it’s needed.

9. Limited Resources

As a professional counselor, the challenge of restricted or limited resources can hinder your ability and
capacity to deliver the most effective care and support to your clients. Lack of funding, lack of access to
materials and items you need, and inadequate staff are just some of the resource issues mental health
counselors face.

Strategies to help you — the following methods can help you combat the limited resources you might be
facing in your practice:

 Partnering with an online platform to offer affordable, convenient online counseling services means
less overhead and no time or money spent on marketing yourself, so you can focus on doing what
you love – helping people.
 Collaborating with other professionals will allow you to find solutions for clients that you may not
have otherwise been able to provide.
 Seeking out the latest therapeutic techniques means you can offer the newest, most effective care
plans for optimal healing.

Why it’s so essential: By staying persistent and focusing on overcoming obstacles that stem from limited
resources, you’ll enhance your personal growth as a therapist and improve your clients’ health outcomes.

10. Emotional Resilience

Working with clients who are navigating extreme trauma recovery can be one of the more intense emotional
challenges of counseling. Maintaining resilience is critical if you’re going to avoid compassion fatigue or
burnout.

Strategies to help you — some of the more effective ways to establish emotional resilience include:

 Engaging in activities that are self-nurturing, like doing hobbies you enjoy or working out
 Journaling
 Practicing mindful meditation
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 Socializing with others
 Take time off

Why it’s so essential: Fostering emotional resilience lets you protect your own mental well-being while
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“Therapists need to take care of their own mental health to be present for their clients. If a therapist is struggling
with burnout or compassion fatigue, then they cannot be as effective with their clients. Therapists should take
breaks, do self care, or go on vacation so that they can be the best version of themselves with their clients.”

Insurance Limitations
Dealing with insurance can be a significant source of anxiety and stress for mental health professionals.
Insurance companies often impose restrictions on the number of sessions, modalities of care, and types of
treatment covered. They may require extensive documentation to justify the services you provide. The
burden can weigh heavily and ultimately prevent you from being able to extend the types of care you strive
to offer.

Strategies to help you — you can learn to deal with insurance companies by:

 Staying informed about changes to insurance coverage

 Educating your clients about coverage options
 Considering offering a sliding scale fee to encourage people to pay out-of-pocket
 Partner with an online therapy platform (such as Talkspace) that will deal with insurance for you

Why it’s so essential: Navigating the ins and outs of insurance can be exhausting, but addressing limitations
head-on and becoming more informed about the processes can reduce the strain on you, your practice, and
your clients.

Overcome Obstacles in Your Career with Talkspace

Talkspace is an online therapy platform that can help you overcome some of the challenges of being a
therapist. When you become a Talkspace therapist, you can work flexible hours that are best for your needs
and lifestyle. This allows you to maintain a work-life balance that can be difficult to achieve when you run a
private practice. The intuitive platform makes interaction with clients simple and straightforward. Talkspace
therapists don’t have to deal with insurance alone, they have flexible hours, and they don’t have the
headaches of billing and other administrative work — they also don’t have to market themselves as much.

When you recognize and can appropriately and effectively address the struggles of being a counselor, you
can focus on being the best therapist possible, offering your clients the best chance they have to heal.

You’ve chosen a rewarding but admittedly challenging profession. The service you do to help others does
not go unnoticed. When times are trying and you feel overwhelmed, remember how much of a difference
you make.