|
COUNSELLING PHILOSOPHY
For many years I have recognised the positive power of a good natter with a good friend. On many occasions my good friends and I have put our own and each other's world to rights by talking long into the night - often with a bottle of wine and a large box of utterly decadent chocolates. hence, it is not surprising that I have an unwavering belief in talking therapy.
It seems to me that the kind of adult into which we grow is not only the product of our biological nature, it is also the result of the myriad of interactions we have with those around us during the formative years of our psychological development.
During the years I spent studying for my psychology degree, I gained a lot of theoretical knowledge about human nature. However, I have always been determined to keep an open mind and make use of all available approaches and tools in my practice. I recognise that instinctively I am an integrative practitioner. This means that I mesh different approaches in a fairly seamless way.
For me, being integrative means that flexibility and creativity are essential elements of my work. With one client in one situation, I may blend one set of ingredients, whereas in another situation and with another client the recipe will be very different. The fundamental element is attuning to my clients' needs.
Although I believe in the uniqueness of every person, I also believe it is important to be aware of multicultural issues in the broadest sense - ie. gender, sexual orientation, disability and other large areas of difference, not just race. Most of us make more assumptions about the meanings of particular behaviours then we realise, even when operating within our own cultures. Therefore, I aim to approach cultures different from my own with respect and alertness and, hopefully, some knowledge. I also believe it is important for counsellors to develop their self-awareness, especially in terms of prejudices. After all, prejudice is part and parcel of our human condition.
My ultimate aim in my work with my clients is to help them integrate their mind, body and spirit so that they achieve greater happiness in their lives. I do not give advice but rather I try to help my clients make their own choices, They have control over the direction counselling takes with my role being to help and support them along the way.
In conclusion, I believe that the basic principles of warmth, positive regard, genuineness, empathy and concern are the most effective in helping people to talk about their problems. However, I have no doubt that it is the relationship between the client and the counsellor that is the most important factor in facilitating change within the client.
|
