Topic: counseling-fundamentals

Question: What happens in a counseling session?
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates?

Answer (from Ashley "Ashton" BernalRenewed Hope Counseling):
I think this question can vary based on the individual therapist, their style and theoretical orientation. Clients are always welcome to ask questions before and during the process to understand their care. When I am first meeting with a client I take a more formalized approach in our first session completing what is called a psychosocial assessment. Typically I explore what brought the client to therapy in the first place and I take a more direct approach asking a variety of questions related to the specific struggles, frequency, history, duration, etc. This is NOT how my normal therapy sessions are and I try to explain that to my clients so they understand that while my first initial sessions is a lot of information gathering, and me typing out their responses, on going therapy is very client focused and catered to the needs of the client.

Answer (from Dr Traci KochendorferTime for you to " Claim IT" with over 15 years in health and wellness, Ph.D Psy.D D.D. F.P.L.C. recognized on TV and Magazines,):
Weeks 1-2: Intros and NormsYour facilitator  or counselor will establish rapport norms and guide you in building a sense of connection through getting to know each other exercises (not boring ice breakers, these are actually fun). You should of probably filled out intake forms and what you are asking of the counselor. We may ask you to share:A personal strength and weakness.Highs and lows of your week.A misconception people have about you.

Answer (from Fred RogersQue Sera Sera Counseling ):
Counselor tries to build rapport and gets the client talking. When the client talks, shares whatever they feel, counselor merely listens. A counselor's job is to bring out coping mechanism from the clients only and emphasise on the coping mechanisms,

Answer (from Janet SullivanCertified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional):
You’re nervous, perhaps scared.  You have never been to a therapy session
before and have no idea what to expect!  Whenever we do something for the first time,
it helps reduce anxiety and nervousness if we know what to expect and can
prepare. Here are some things that
generally take place in a first session and typical questions the therapist
will ask. These help your therapist get
to know you and make an accurate initial assessment of your situation and what
would be most helpful to you.
You will be asked to complete paperwork.  If you are using insurance be sure to bring that
information with you.  Often, you can
complete paperwork online prior to your session which saves time. (Don’t forget
to bring it with you to your session!)
1.  What issue(s) brings
you to therapy?2.  Your personal
background history as it relates to current issues.3.  What physical or other symptoms are you
experiencing? How is the issue affecting other areas of your life?
And here are a few other tips to help you get the most out
of your first session.
1.  Be open and honest about your feelings.
Therapists are trained to listen and learn from what you share. 2.  Ask questions. There’s no such thing as a dumb
question. Asking questions helps you understand more about the process, reduces
your anxiety, and helps you become more comfortable. If you don’t understand
something, please ask!3.  Be prepared. Think about how to describe “what’s
wrong” or why you are seeking therapy. 
It can help to make a list of reasons why you are seeking help.  Practice describing how you feel about
the issue.Most people feel more at ease after their first session and you will continue to build rapport with your therapist over time.  It is a big step to begin therapy and I wish everyone healing and growth on your journey!

Answer (from David KleinHumanistic, LGBT-Affirmative Psychotherapy for Individuals & Couples):
For me, I want a client to feel like I understand what brings them to seek help from me. So I might explore both their present circumstances, as well as their history, and try to start making some connections between the two, but so that the both of us can understand what is taking place. Not every therapist goes into history in the same way, either. The way the therapist practices will often inform the ways in which they collect and look at data.However, above all, my goal, especially in the beginning of therapy, is to work on developing a working rapport with any client. Most research states that the quality of the relationship, rather than modality of therapy, indicates success rates. One of the most essential components of rapport is that someone feels heard, attuned to, and understood.

Answer (from Elissa Grossclinical psychologist ):
Hi.  This is an excellent question !   I think that the answer probably varies depending upon the particular therapist .  In my work with people , once we have met and I have gotten an idea of the person'a concerns and the issues they want help with , I spend the next few sessions gathering as much history and as much information about the client's current concerns in order to formulate some ideas about what may be causing distress .  I would then share my thoughts with the client to see if they feel I am understanding them and on the right track.  We would then discuss the best plan to address the client's concerns .  Usually I will suggest strategies that I think may be helpful and ask the client for feedback about whether or not they think my suggestions feel helpful .   I always encourage clients to be really honest with me about this.  I tell them that I would hate for them to agree to try things that they know they won't try just to avoid "hurting my feelings" or "offending me."  I want to be helpful and while I have the expertise as far as typically helpful  strategies, I really like to work collaboratively and have clients tell me what they do and don't like / agree with or not agree with when I share my thoughts about a treatment plan .  We the   work together to come up with a plan that will be helpful , but also realistic and then revise it and try new things if necessary as we go along.   If things aren't improving , I am very happy and willing to try something new ! I hope this is helpful for you !

Answer (from Victoria HaagFind direction for your life...):
There are probably no two therapists alike because first and foremost we are human beings!And...our personalities may somewhat guide how we go about getting to know you, identifying what you would like to be different in your life and developing a plan to get where you would like to be. The very most important thing that will determine a successful outcome is the healthy therapeutic relationship between you and your therapist.  If you don't feel safe, comfortable and ready to work together, then it is likely not a good fit. And that's OK...speak up and the therapist should assist you in finding someone you can readily work with.