Characteristics Of Effective Counselors In Stratford CT

By William Watson


The world is becoming a tougher place to live in due to the various stressors like family wrangles, work stress, addiction and relationship problems. Psychological problems have become rampant due to stress, increasing the demand for licensed mental health practitioners. The problem is that although these specialists are licensed, they are all different. Here are the top attributes that effective counselors in Stratford CT should possess.

One of the attributes is adept communication skills. A counselor who has honed the skills during the training and course of career might not have great communication skills compared to the person who possessed the skills even before embarking on the career. The best professional knows the need for good communication in this career hence will possess the ability to listen and explain ideas clearly in a layman language.

Look for a therapist who is empathic. Empathy and compassion are important components of a successful treatment. Life is full of ups and downs. When someone is stressed or depressed, this is probably the lowest point of their life and that is when they need to be heard and understood. Therapists that will understand you are those willing or with the ability to feel what you are going through so look for that.

The other attribute is adaptability. There is need for therapists to be accommodating by have the ability to change their attitude. Making patients feel understood and safe begins accommodating those who come late or counsel sessions. The ability to adapt is required in the treatment approaches too. Using the same procedure for all you patients will not work because there is need to adopt something new when the client is nor responding.

Find professionals who possess self awareness if you are looking for an effective counseling. It is not wise to go to a dentist who has bad teeth because if the person cannot address his or her own problem, addressing yours will be almost impossible. Opt for those specialist who have discovered themselves and dealt with their insecurities and desires because they are suited to help you best since they will be intuitive of what you need.

The best professionals in this field are patient. The road to recovery is long and rough. Change will not be witnessed within days or weeks, sometimes it will take even years. A good mental health practitioner will be willing and ready to wait as the patient improves slowly. To help the client stay patient too, the expert must learn to celebrate small victories and that way both parties will remain focused to the main goal.

Another attribute that these specialists should possess is strong interpersonal skills. Remember that most of the things discussed during counseling sessions are very personal and for one to open up, a strong relationship is required. Patients need a lot of focus and the counselor should not allow him or herself to be distracted by small things during counseling as they might lead to divided attention that will affect the results.

The final attribute is the thirst for knowledge. A degree in this career is good but not enough. Attending conferences, workshops, seminars and taking mental therapy continuing education programs annually can help increase experience hence more effectiveness in a practice.




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