The full list I gave earlier, in Part 1 is:
- Encourager
- Accountability Person
- Giver of Objective Feedback
- Resource Provider
- Tool Provider/Teacher
- Safe Space
- Diagnostician
Today I continue with some of the roles of a counselor. The other day, I discussed the roles of “encourager, “accountability person”, and “giver of objective feedback”. Today I will talk about a couple more of those roles.
The role of “resource provider” is important because we recognize that people need support from other people in their lives and in their community. I will also always discuss the interplay of physical health and mental health, and I will typically direct clients to make sure that they have had a recent physical exam. I want to rule out issues such as thyroid problems, diabetes, or any other neurological or hormonal basis for mood disorders.
Depending on the needs of the client, I may suggest a group like Celebrate Recovery DivorceCare, or GriefShare- nationally known groups that provide specific Christian support for specific issues. I will of course suggest AA, or Alanon, or Sexual Addiction groups for those in need of addiction recovery. The fellowship of a church is often a crucial support, as well as an accepting place to work out issues of spiritual growth. I will also suggest support groups for specific chronic illnesses, caregivers support groups- well the list goes on. The point is, part of my job is to recognize the needs of clients, research or be aware of community resources, and encourage their attendance as part of a treatment plan.
The last one to discuss today is “tool provider/teacher”. I use instruments such as the StrengthFinder test, temperament tests, handouts like “Fair Fighting Rules” or “Separation Agreements”, my “5 questions” for couples, naming just a few tools that I tend to employ. I often take on the role of teacher to explain to clients what exactly depression, or PTSD, or anxiety is. One of the tools I often give to clients is the “anxiety tool kit” to give some specific behaviors that can help deal with anxiety.
Tomorrow I will finish up the list of roles to better help explain the role of a counselor. That is all for now, blessings to you today!
Reflections of a Counselor 