I
really like the way the Thomas and Sossin text used the metaphor of the “forest
and the trees” in referring to the counseling session. We have been looking so much at theories, and
skills (the trees) and now we are getting a chance to see the big picture (the
forest). Making the initial connection
with client, covering confidentiality and the exceptions, hearing their story,
assessing the need, and beginning to make deposits into the relationship gives
way to conceptualizing and planning treatments.
Understanding the client’s expectations, helping them to understand and
feel safe in this relationship before beginning the treatment. Then working together to establish the three
types of goals; Immediate, Intermediate and the Ultimate goals. Making sure our goals are SMART; Specific,
Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and fit the Timetable we are working
under. Helping our clients turn their
problems into goals using the keys we have been given; Grounding the client in
the rational of GOALs, helping to set goals that point to the desired very
specific Outcomes, Assessing the client’s Ambition and helping them understand
the things that might interfere with them achieving their goals, and Linking
the goals to the therapeutic process.
Then, working together with the client to set the agenda.
I
also really like the idea of the AIM Model.
It will take time to understand it and begin to practice it, but it
promises to help us use the theories and skills we are learning to create a
biblical and psychologically sound manner of counseling. I am working on putting all of the acronyms
on colored sheets to put on my walls so I have a reminder of the “big picture”
as I continue to practice all the skills I am trying to learn. I am learning to trust the process and believe
eventually it will all come together and we will become the counselors God
wants us to become.
Reference
After reading and meditating on your blog, I have a few comments and questions for you. First, I liked and agree with your idea about putting material on the walls of one's room, to view and be reminded of the material and put the material to long-term memory. Second, What is more important to you and more important to the client about the counseling/helping relationship, the bigger picture, or the relationship? I asked for your edification! Third, I liked the tree and forest illustration too. We can sometimes get "tunnel vision," especially if we are focusing on the tree alone. Finally, I enjoyed viewing your picture and think it is beautiful. I look forward to reading and replying to your future blogs, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI think the counseling relationship is very important. If the client doesn't feel safe, it really won't matter what skills you have or what theory you use. But it is nice to start to see the whole picture, especially as we are getting to the en of the course.
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