When someone has never been to counseling, it’s often assumed that my role is to tell you what to do and how to do it, to determine right and wrong, and to tell you what your values and morals should be. None of that is my role. I do not judge you, your choices or your life experiences. Also remember that all counselors are different in the way they interact with their clients. There are various approaches and many ways to work with clients, so try to remember that if you change counselors.You have to find the right connection with your counselor. If you don’t click with your counselor, it doesn’t make them bad or good, it’s just not the right fit. It’s imperative that you find the right fit for you.
My role as your counselor is to:
- Be your helper
- Give you a safe space to verbally process your thoughts, feelings and experiences
- Give you empathy and understanding although that is not an indication of right and wrong; you have to determine that for yourself
- Give you insight as to what is healthy vs. unhealthy behaviors and choices
- Assist you in managing your mental health symptoms
- Offer you psychoeducation
- Teach you coping skills and techniques
- Offer suggestions, make recommendations and make referrals
- Offer support, validation and coaching
I’m sure there are other aspects to my role that I have not thought of and I will add to the list as I recall. If you have questions about my role, your role, or the experience of therapy, please don’t ever hesitate to ask.
