Joining in Counselling
Introduction
Counselling, in the profession, refers to the creation of relationships that are helpful and positive between a counselor and a client. Counselling is intended to aid in adjustment and growth. Usually a client come to counsellors when they do not how to change so that they can lead a better and satisfying life. There are many skills and concepts that makes a great counsellor but in this essay, I will go back to the most fundamental basic skill which is "joining".
As with all counselling sessions, "joining" with the client is very essential to build the rapport with our client so that we are able to work together to identify and achieve the contracted goals. Having a good rapport with client is one of the active ingredient to steer towards positive outcome. Rapport could be considered a ‘mutual absence of vulnerability' which is to make our client feel safe and trustful.
What is meant by the term "joining"?
"Joining" is an ongoing process which usually begins at the first point of contact between the counsellor and the client. This could be on the phone while fixing up an appointment or face-to-face in the counselling centre setting. The initial meeting with the client is important in "joining" as first impression will be build. The first impression will affect the willingness of client to share their thoughts or problem with us.
The first impression is usually affirmed with a handshake as the counsellor introduce themselves. The charisma and tone of the counsellor will speak volume of his or her confidence level which will be registering in client's first impression of us. Bearing that in mind, the counsellor must still be themself and not come across as intimidating or expert. It is crucial to be warmth and welcoming, putting the client at ease in our presence. "As we strive to make sense of the world around us, to determine what is real and what is illusory, we depend on other people to validate our perceptions and impressions."
Counselling, in the profession, refers to the creation of relationships that are helpful and positive between a counselor and a client. Counselling is intended to aid in adjustment and growth. Usually a client come to counsellors when they do not how to change so that they can lead a better and satisfying life. There are many skills and concepts that makes a great counsellor but in this essay, I will go back to the most fundamental basic skill which is "joining".
As with all counselling sessions, "joining" with the client is very essential to build the rapport with our client so that we are able to work together to identify and achieve the contracted goals. Having a good rapport with client is one of the active ingredient to steer towards positive outcome. Rapport could be considered a ‘mutual absence of vulnerability' which is to make our client feel safe and trustful.
What is meant by the term "joining"?
"Joining" is an ongoing process which usually begins at the first point of contact between the counsellor and the client. This could be on the phone while fixing up an appointment or face-to-face in the counselling centre setting. The initial meeting with the client is important in "joining" as first impression will be build. The first impression will affect the willingness of client to share their thoughts or problem with us.
The first impression is usually affirmed with a handshake as the counsellor introduce themselves. The charisma and tone of the counsellor will speak volume of his or her confidence level which will be registering in client's first impression of us. Bearing that in mind, the counsellor must still be themself and not come across as intimidating or expert. It is crucial to be warmth and welcoming, putting the client at ease in our presence. "As we strive to make sense of the world around us, to determine what is real and what is illusory, we depend on other people to validate our perceptions and impressions."
References: Geldard, K. & Geldard, D. (2005) Practical counselling skills: An integrative approach. London: Palgrave Macmillan Bolton, R (1987). People skills: How to assert yourself, listen to others, and resolve conflicts. Brookvale, NSW: Simon & Schuster Johnson, D (1990). Reaching out:Interpersonal effectiveness and self-actualization and self actualization. New jersey: Prentice hall, Inc. http://www.aipc.net.au/articles/CounsellingMicroSkills/2007-02-06_Tips_and_Strategies_to_Build_Rapport_with_Clients.php