Question From Rhonda

Which do you think the client benefits more from...shaping the process or controlling the process?

Rhonda,

I believe that the counselor needs to be genuine and build a relationship with the client versus being somewhat removed and uninvolved. The counselor needs to be inside the process, and not an outsider applying some form of premeditated conditioning (shaping/controlling). I believe the most effective reinforcements are real concern, real interest, and real understanding. Being a counselor, in my opinion, is more than handing out rewards (like a vending machine), smiling, and affirming. I would sum it up this way; real growth comes from real understanding on the part of both parties.

Thanks for your question