The consultant's role should never be to take control away from you or anyone else in your business. For the very same reasons you should not attempt self-diagnosis when you need a doctor. Yes, you know your body better than anyone else, but you also know that you are going to be completely subjective and will be in a state of denial. The same holds true for your business. You know and understand it better than anyone, but you are going to remain subjective and in a state of denial when it comes to facing your realities.
Strategic planning is all about discovery.
It is all about uncovering the truths, the harsh realities and the heart of the matter. It is all about discerning your realities, achieving full disclosure and discovering genuine solutions. You cannot do that as the owner and you cannot trust your people to be as honest and forthright as you will need them to be. Anyone working for you is not going to ask the tough questions. They are not going to be willing to challenge, provoke and question things with their job on the line.