The theories that were mentioned are all very valuable. a It was
difficult to decide on just one. I decided on the strength-based
approach. a I feel that people develop a more positive self-image when
they realize their strengths. If a client feels that they are worthless or
have made a shambles of their life, they can make great strides when
reminded of their strengths. a An example of this with a client would
be if they grew up in a dysfunctional home and carry that with them
through their life, they can be reminded that they are a survivor! "Yes,
you did grow up with alcoholic parents who weren't around, but you
did not let that stop you from graduating high school" for example.
Showing them what they have done right in their life lets them realize,
"Yes, I did do that. And I can do more." Too many people were either
told or shown that they were worthless or stupid and will not amount
to anything in this life. a As a human services professional, you have
the ability to change those thoughts by showing them even the
smallest accomplishments they have made in their life. a They may
have forgotten about them. a They may not even think of their
accomplishments as such. You can explain to them that even by
showing up for this meeting, you are proving all that you heard when
you were young as wrong. "You are breaking the chain!" For those
such people, it may take much reminding that they are worthy and
that you believe that in them. Waking up in the morning, taking a
shower and eating breakfast is an accomplishment! a Not isolating
today, is an accomplishment! More of us, in our daily lives would do
wonders for a person by reminding them that they are important to
you and are a blessing. a They may not believe it at first. There are
many things they can do to remind themselves of this. Put up post-It
notes on your bathroom mirror or nightstand that say, "I am worthy of
love." "I am important." I believe this is a great tool we as human
services professionals can use to help our clients grow and move past
old thoughts and feelings of hopelessness and woe.
