Change, growth and individual development are crucial to life. For growth to occur, need for change must move beyond simple desire. The very act of seeking assistance to boost yourself implies both an eagerness to change and the power to do so.
Most individuals seek counselling at this time of need. Invariably when you search the counselling section of any directory you find a long list of names. Many regularly ask the best way to choose a therapist that best suits their situation.
To aid in this search we have provided guidelines so that you feel more assured about selecting a counselor. When you eventually make the call, you need to know what to go looking for and the sorts of points to ask.
Qualifications: It would appear obvious but they have to know what they are doing. You would like them to be qualified for the problems you want to work on. Few people ask the qualifications of their counsellor or may know whether the qualifications they have are relevant. Your counsellor must have completed an applicable university undergraduate degree. Many courses need up to four years training such as the Social Work Degree and Psychology Degree or a Masters in Counselling.
Experience: The number of years of and relevant expertise counts in counselling just as it does in several other professions. This length of training and experience reflects an age group of counsellors which will have life experience of their own to draw on. Ask the age of your counsellor.
Gender: Unless you have a particularly strong viewpoint on this, the gender does not necessarily matter. The most important issue is the rapport that develops between the counsellor and you. This should happen over the first couple of sessions making the gender of the counsellor a non-issue.
Organisation or Independent: Are they an sole practitioner, or are they supported within an organisation? The independent consultant is just that, determining their own measure of liability. A benefit of an organisation is the formal process of professional supervision and accountability for the specialist.
Services: Look at the counsellor or organisation's Website and read through the information on offer. The Website will give you an impression of the service ideals and beliefs. Look at their Vision and Core Value statements. Is it something you feel comfortable with? The service you contact should be able to offer appointments in the daytime, in the evening and perhaps on Weekends to give you some flexibility.
Where: Find a location that suits, but don't be put off by travel. Distance can too quickly be used to stop making an appointment. Remember it is not a daily event.
Cost: Here your financials may put a natural limitation on cost. Weighing out your investment in counselling against other costs can make it appear inexpensive.
Taking care to make the right choice is important, knowing you can trust your future to a caring and competent professional is vital.
About the Author:
Chris Dawson is a very qualified marriage counselling expert, helping couples resolve relationship issues. His extensive experience, of over 25 years knowledge, is highly sort after internationally in his position as Clinical Director for Humaneed, a leading Marriage and Relationship Counselling Service based in Australia.
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