5-Stage outcomes-based counselling process

                              

The Counselling Process

Stages of counselling process :  (Outcomes based)

Stage 1. Building a relationship

Skills required:

Focus (non-verbal communication)

Attending (reflection and listening)

Empathy (body language, voice and words)

Unconditional positive regard.

                                   Outcome required ......relationship of Trust

Stage 2.    Dealing with emotions

Skills required:

Listening /reflection (Acknowledge feelings)

Questioning              (Identify, name and take ownership of emotions)

Silence

Support (physical)

                                         Outcome required ……...a visible release of emotion

Stage 3. Dealing with thoughts

Skills required:

Listening (acknowledge and clarify thoughts)

Questioning (Identification of underlying thoughts)

Challenging (negative self -talk and other cases)

Analysing (looking for the big picture or underlying issues.

Outcome required................a good understanding of his /her situation            (turning point)

Stage 4.

Empowerment

Immediacy

Positive feedback   

Meeting their specific needs 

New coping skills

Outcome required ……..client feels empowered to make decisions and continue

Stage 5   Options and planning :

Skills required :

Frame of reference (clients real life options)

Linking

Summarising ( looking at the real issues involved)

Analysing     ( present, past and future possibilities)

Outcome required - a realistic, workable plan of action

Total outcome of counselling session .... An overall visible improvement in the clients emotional and mental state (improved mood) The willingness to continue (no doubts or possible unresolved  emotions or issues)

Jimmy Henderson (MA Psychology) trained trauma and crisis counsellor