Reflections on the counselor-client relationship

Having worked hard to be recognized as professionals, counselors are to be scientists and use scientific methods when working with clients (Corey, 2009). This means counselors are to hypothesize objectively as to what may be troubling the client. Having created the hypothesis, the counselor is to work with the client to test the original hypothesis.

Realistically, motivated clients are going to research their problem and do what is necessary for change.  This is a fact of nature that humans are continually exploring their world (Bohart & Tallman, 1999). A wise counselor will use this motivation to help guide the client in researching the hypothesis. This requires a relationship between the two that is collaborative in nature (Corey, 2009).

Scientific research has shown that counselors must be flexible in their approaches with clients and value the clients’ experiences. The use of research is a method that can be used to encourage the clients to share their experiences and take ownership of their recovery. The outcome for therapy is based on clients’ ability to work within the parameters offered by the counselor. If the client is able to work within those parameters then there is a higher chance for success (Henkelman & Paulson, 2006).

Using research is guiding the clients towards self-discovery. The counselors are the experts in the area of methodology and use techniques to test hypothesizes. Using scientific methods and research, the counselor helps the client to discover and explore possibilities. In this way, the clients resolve their issues (Bohart & Tallman, 1999).

Reference

Bohart, A., & Tallman, K. (1999). Self-healing with a therapist. How clients make therapy work: The process of active self-healing (pp. 87-104). Washington, DC US: American Psychological Association. Retrieved September 15, 2009, doi:10.1037/10323-004

Bohart, A., & Tallman, K. (1999). How the active client fits in with other approaches. How clients make therapy work: The process of active self-healing (pp. 139-164). Washington, DC US: American Psychological Association. Retrieved September 15, 2009, doi:10.1037/10323-006

Corey, Gerald. (2009). Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy (eighth ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson Brooks/Cole. (Original work published 2005)

Henkelman, J., & Paulson, B. (2006, June). The client as expert: Researching hindering experiences in counselling. Counselling Psychology Quarterly, 19(2), 139-150. Retrieved September 15, 2009, doi:10.1080/09515070600788303