Respond to discussion

 Humans come to counselors to help them with their suffering by teaching them how to heal or at least try to.  There are five concepts that I would utilize in a counseling session when dealing with others who are suffering.  There are a few concepts that I would have not thought of and then there are some that I found helpful. 

            The first question that I would begin with is, “How do I make this client safe and free to share their feelings with me?”  Through hospitality which was discussed in great deal in the presentation on Spirituality, Counseling, and Counseling Dynamics (Brewer & Peters, 2019), I would fully agree as this being something important that would help a client to feel safe, learn that I am human and I feel empathy for you, and also that their needs are most important. 

            Second question would ask is, “How can I understand the pain and suffering this person is dealing with?”  It is important listen to their verbal and non-verbal cues.  Listen by showing empathy in what they are saying and repeat what they are saying so that the client feels that you understand them. 

            A third question would consist of, “What is my role in this counseling session?”  It is important to know your role.  It is imperative to let your client understand that you do not have all of the answers and that it is going to be work and dedication on their part in order for them to heal.  “How can I make my client feel strength and become their own advocate,” pertains to the forth concept and that they need guidance to find hope in their lives and that they can change and be successful in reaching their goals.  Lastly, “How do I understand sin and fallenness?”  Pray with your clients when appropriate. The power of prayer can overcome any obstacle and also give the client a sense of love and support.

            As for the scenario, Jamie is greatly hurting.  It would be a possibility that before she came to counseling, something might have happened prior to that day maybe with the divorce that is now making her agitated.  Through this counseling session, in order to have her make progress, it is going to be important to remind Jamie that this is a process.  She needs to put her trust in this counseling and in God that her life can be turned around.  Jamie needs continued support and a possible outlook on any possibility of progress that she might be showing. 

 

References

Brewer, G., & Peters, C. (n.d.) COUN 506 Week Three:  Spirituality, suffering, and counseling

            dynamics [PowerPoint].  Lynchburg, VA:  Liberty University Online