When someone decides they would like a confidential talk with a qualified counsellor, they may not know exactly what to expect.
Counselling involves the developing of a rapport between the counsellor and client. This progresses into a working alliance, in which the counsellor aims to provide the conditions that will help a client explore their particular concerns.
The foundation for the therapeutic relationship is based on principles put forward by psychologists such as Carl Rogers.
These principles include respect, empathy, openness, authenticity and honesty, amongst other high standards of ethical and moral values.
The counsellor endeavours to provide the space in which the client feels listened to without judgement or prejudice. The counsellor seeks to focus entirely on the client’s perspective and lived experience, tracking their account and listening carefully.
This active listening may involve the asking of questions to help the client explore more fully their concerns. The counsellor aims to help the client understand what is behind their issues, for instance by helping identify possible connections and throwing light on triggers and feelings.
Creative techniques may also be used to explore feelings and emotions that clients find difficulty expressing with words.
The relationship is based on equality. As such the counsellor helps clients raise their self-awareness. This empowers clients to find their solutions, understand and even make changes.
At all times, the counsellor is sensitive to each client’s process, at their pace and direction. This is unique to each person, making the counselling process a very special and personally rewarding experience.