‘I couldn’t help her, all I could do was sit and listen.’ How often people say this, seemingly unaware that careful listening and concerned responding from the basis of all counselling.
But how do I move on from being merely an effective listener? Do I advise a client, and if so, how? How do I deal with a crisis situation? What if a client’s choice seems unwise? Can’t I just listen and hope that love will win through? What about dealing with ethical problems? How do I offer new perspectives to a client? How can I avoid becoming over-involved in somebody else’s problem?
In ‘First Steps in Counselling’, Ursula O’Farrell tackles all these questions and more. Primarily aimed at those interested in acquiring basic counselling skills, this book will be invaluable to those who already counsel in the course of work or daily life. It offers a comprehensive coverage of all aspects of counselling, from the practical questions of finding a suitable location and meeting the client for the first time, to the need for self-awareness and the common dilemma of being genuinely concerned for a client yet trying to avoid over-involvement and ‘burn out’.