Attributes Of Effective Counselors In Stratford CT

By William Watson


Various states around the globe have recognized that stress and psychological problems are becoming a huge threat to the health and happiness of their citizens. Due to that, states are taking a step to train, educate, license and certify therapists to provide assessment, diagnosis and therapy to mental patients. Having a license and being certified is not enough when looking for a therapist. Below are the characteristics to look for in effective counselors in Stratford CT.

One of the attributes is adept communication skills. A counselor who has honed the skills during the training and course of career might not have great communication skills compared to the person who possessed the skills even before embarking on the career. The best professional knows the need for good communication in this career hence will possess the ability to listen and explain ideas clearly in a layman language.

The next aspect is empathy. Remember most patients are undergoing the hardest times of their lives. Trying to feel and understand what these people are going through is what makes a difference between these professionals. Therapists with compassion will make patients feel understood and this is likely to make positive impact on their recovery. Patients are better heard if the therapist puts him or herself in the shoes of the client.

Get people with a flexible attitude and techniques. At times you might be held up somewhere and fail to show for an appointment or arrive late. You need someone who understand such things happen. Similarly, although the expert might want to use a standard technique for all patients, he or she must be willing to adjust the predetermined treatment based on client response. Avoid people who cannot adopt to the flow of treatment.

Self-awareness is also a crucial trait. Counselors cannot help patients without helping themselves first. If a patient is dealing with insecurities or anxiety, he or she would never visit a therapists dealing with fear and anxiety. The specialist will not be intuitive about your needs and you are less likely to see positive change. Therefore, effective therapists will address their own issues like fear, addiction and other psychological problems first before handling clients.

Patience is an attribute to confirm too. Very few people are born patient hence it is an attribute that one should nurture in the course of the career. It is unlikely for a depression client to experience change overnight. The process is slow hence the need for the therapist to possess the ability to wait and celebrate every positive step made in the journey towards recovery.

Another attribute that these specialists should possess is strong interpersonal skills. Remember that most of the things discussed during counseling sessions are very personal and for one to open up, a strong relationship is required. Patients need a lot of focus and the counselor should not allow him or herself to be distracted by small things during counseling as they might lead to divided attention that will affect the results.

Effective counselors are students. They understand that learning does not stop once you get a job. To keep up with all the advancement in the industry, career development programs like workshops and seminars are must.




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