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Unit 25: Counselor: Role and Qualities

clients or other professionals. They usually work in office and classroom environments. The work Notes
can be emotionally demanding and stressful, particularly when case loads are high.
Self Assessment

1. State whether the following statement are ‘true’ or ‘false’ :
(i) Psychotherapy is a process focussed on helping you heal and learn more constructive ways
to deal with the problems within your life.
(ii) Behavior therapy is focussed an individual behaviour changes.
(iii) Self monitoring is the final stage of psychotherapy.
(iv) Psychotherapy is time limited and focuses on specific goals.

25.3 Qualities of a Counselor

A capable counselor must possess a number of personal qualities and develop the proper attitudes
to make a client feel at ease and to build rapport so that a client can self-disclose.
Empathy
Empathic understanding is the ability to see things from the client’s perspective. Without this quality
a counselor will be unable to comprehend the problems, experiences, thoughts and feelings of another
person, and will not be able to offer clients the level of supportive understanding that they will
require.
The counselor’s full attention and empathy encourages a client to relax and trust and encourages
self-disclosure.

Congruence and warmth
A counselor should be agreeable and act appropriately to provide the client with a comfortable
foundation for the counseling relationship. Only by creating a friendly atmosphere can the counselor
encourage interaction and disclosure.
• Maintain warmth and genuine understanding.
• Use appropriate body language such as a non-threatening posture, while maintaining eye
contact and respecting the client’s personal space.

• Maintain a reassuring and comforting way of speech - the tone of voice, speed of speech and
style of delivery.
Respect

Counselors must at all times show respect for clients and their welfare. They must also remain
impartial and non-judgmental.
A client must feel comfortable, safe and confident that confidentiality will be maintained at all times
and also that the counselor is committed to helping, encouraging and supporting.
Whilst maintaining a professional focus a counselor must be able to show a genuine openness.
Positive regard
It is of vital importance in the counseling relationship that the counselor demonstrates a positive
acceptance of the client and that the client is valued and respected.
A positive, unconditional regard for the wellbeing of a client is the basis from which clients can
explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences, and develop an understanding and acceptance of
their emotions.

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