Counseling Professional Identity
The most compelling contribution to my identity as a counselor has to be my personality and life experiences. I am a firm believer that the counselor is a person first. Although we spend years learning and growing and polishing ourselves, we are still who we are. I think Carl Rogers captured this concept perfectly when he said, “it’s a way of being.” Being a person who lives by the core conditions of counseling sets the stage for a safe and inviting space for clients. This way of being is the foundation of my professional identity. I am always measuring my words and actions against these core conditions, whether I am wearing my professional counselor hat or talking to someone at the grocery store. My expectations of myself as a professional counselor are not perfection, but honest evaluation and a commitment to continued growth.
The next building block of my professional identity as a counselor is the to develop a greater understanding of the normal neurological processes and responses we all have to trauma, neglect, and abuse. As I expand my knowledge and understanding, I hope to de-pathologize many client behaviors that actually make a lot of sense when viewed as a protective response of the brain. I believe that replacing blame and shame over these behaviors, with understanding and empowerment can lighten a client’s load a great deal.
Finally, I see myself as a constant learner. I believe it is important to regularly pursue new ideas, techniques, and trainings that may be of use to my clients. I see every piece of information as a potential tool that could get the job done differently than the last tool. Although I have my favorite theories and ideas about how to approach common mental health issues, I would never want to pass up the opportunity to continue to expand and change what I am offering clients. Continual learning is the best way to decrease stagnation and revitalize the soul.
Legal and ethical issues
I anticipate that I will run into all sorts of interesting dilemma’s with dual relationships since I live in a very small community. I imagine there will clients who I run into at the grocery store, park, or even school plays. I can also foresee clients wanting me to be present for certain milestone activities, such as graduations or weddings. When I come across these situations I will use my training and consult with my supervisor and/or colleagues to determine the best course of action. I feel fairly confident about my ability to maintain boundaries and keep the client’s best interest at the forefront of my actions when navigating these situations, so I am not overly concerned about this issue, but I am certain it will be common.
Another ethical issue that I think will be challenging for me is navigating situations where child abuse or neglect are reported. I don’t think this is an easy one for many counselors as we know that reporting is mandatory and good, but it is a messy, painful situation for all involved. I already came across a situation in internship where it genuinely felt like reporting the abuse was going to bring down more pain and suffering on the victim. In this situation, the minor was no longer in the dangerous situation and a report of this kind could impact their current living situation negatively. I really struggled with this incident and found myself consulting with my supervisor to understand the ethics behind reporting a situation like the one I found myself in.
Professional Competence
I would say that my greatest areas of strength are the core conditions of empathic involvement, integrity and unconditional positive regard toward others. In fact, I find it difficult to respond differently to others. Of course, there are times when I struggle with these core conditions, but more often then not, it is my natural way. I find it very natural to connect with others and experience their feelings and thoughts with them.
On the other hand, I have plenty of room to grow when it comes to the art of counseling. Well-timed silences and open-ended questions can be challenging for me. I also have a long way to go when it comes to knowing how to utilize many of the techniques and theories I have only theoretical knowledge of.
Continuing Development
This is my favorite questions because I want to learn everything I can about counseling, healing trauma, and how the brain works. I am fascinated newer treatments, like Brainspotting. I plan to set aside a percentage of my earnings every month, to invest in trainings, books and seminars. I have a long list of continued development already. Honestly, one of the most exciting things about finishing school is that I can finally read a book that isn’t assigned.
The first things I will pursue will probably be PCIT, Circle of Security Parenting, EMDR and Brainspotting. I have always felt passionately about resourcing parents better. Parenting is the most challenging thing anyone can ever do, in my opinion, and supporting parents is the most efficient way to improve the lives of their children. When you help parents, you improve our future world. EMDR and Brainspotting are not only fascinating, but are efficient and effective treatments for trauma. Trauma seems to be at the forefront of so many adverse and difficult symptoms, it seems silly not to focus on it.