He
is Able
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| Caption: Humpback Mountains in Waynesboro, Virginia Photographer: Myself |
As a counselor, we will meet
individuals with all types of brokenness. Thomas & Sosin (2011) advocate, “no
matter how maladjusted, wounded lost or evil your counselees seem, they are
redeemable” (p. 27). Thomas & Sosin (2011) clarified further: “nothing is
beyond the penetrating power of God’s redemptive grace; He specializes in the
impossible” (p. 27). Our Lord is truly incredible! Each client who seeks
counseling may come with varying motives. As a counselor, it is critical to
meet the clients where they are at. This means techniques will vary from client
to client, and it is critical to be flexible to make changes when needed. Thomas
& Sosin (2011) suggest utilizing techniques that are fitting and comfortable
to work with.
When counseling, it is crucial to
assess each situation carefully for any potentially hazardous results. Thomas
& Sosin (2011) presented several forms of hazards that counselors must work
hard to eliminate from occurring within counseling sessions. While intentions
of may be pure, if we are not self-aware we may end up hurting clients instead
of helping them. Chapter 3 challenged me to examine my responses to not only
clients, but in all daily interactions with others.
Reference
Thomas, J.C., & Sosin, L. (2011). Therapeutic expedition: Equipping the christian counselor for the
Thomas, J.C., & Sosin, L. (2011). Therapeutic expedition: Equipping the christian counselor for the
journey. Nashville, Tenn: B & H Publishing Group
Hey Candance. Thank you for your post. The aspect of counseling I find most daunting is the responsibility involved with producing results. Although counseling may draw up past hurt and negative emotions during individual sessions, counseling is typically referred to as a overall positive experience. Clients find relief and hope in expressing their feelings to an unbiased counselor. I often put too much pressure on myself to meet their needs rather than simply being present. You made a great point that ultimately God is the only being able to display "redemptive grace and specializes in the impossible." This is great truth that reminds me of who is in control.
ReplyDeleteJordan,
ReplyDeleteI, too, am guilty of putting pressure on myself to meet the needs of clients. To a certain extent, that is a good characteristic. It is good that we are concerned about the well-being of our clients. However, I believe we must create boundaries for ourselves as Christian Counselors. Ultimately, we need to be ready and willing to be used by the Lord. More importantly, we need to rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit and on God's healing ability. Any healing or progress that occurs with our clients is truly only by the grace of God.
Blessings!
Candice,
ReplyDeleteI have a few questions and comments pertaining to your blog. First, I liked the picture you took; I have been in proximity to that location of the pic--it is beautiful there. Second, I agree with you that we as counselors must examine our motives to ensure better counseling, client focused care, and avoiding transference. What do you think about allowing the Holy Spirit to guide more than yourself? Is there a balance, or do you feel pressured to help the client on your own? Finally, I agree that clients, and everyday people, feel more comfortable expressing their feelings to an unbiased counselor; however, I do not believe there is a total unbiased person--we all bring presuppositions to conversations, advice, and even the type of care we provide. What do you think?