Counseling and Self-Help for Counselors

  1. Do you think that future Helpers and Counselors should first be required to get counseling/self-help before working with others?
  2. What are the potential drawbacks of getting into the practice of psychology without first having done your own psychological "work"?
  3. Do you think social media influencers in the "self help" space are beneficial or detrimental to promoting good mental health practice?

Full Answer Section

     

A more balanced approach might involve:

  • Strong training programs: Education should emphasize self-care, ethics, and recognizing their own biases.
  • Continuing education: Regular therapy or workshops focused on counselor well-being can be encouraged.
  1. Drawbacks of Skipping Self-Work

Counselors who haven't addressed their own issues might:

  • Project onto clients: Unresolved personal struggles can unconsciously influence interactions with clients.
  • Lack empathy: Difficulty understanding clients' experiences if they haven't grappled with similar issues.
  • Burnout: The emotional demands of the job can be overwhelming without self-care and self-awareness.
  1. Social Media Self-Help Influencers

There are mixed effects:

  • Benefits: They can raise awareness of mental health issues, offer accessible resources, and inspire others to seek help.
  • Drawbacks: They may not be qualified mental health professionals, promoting potentially harmful advice or unrealistic expectations.

It's important for people to be critical consumers:

  • Check credentials: Look for licensed therapists or those with relevant training.
  • Be wary of quick fixes: Mental health is a complex journey, and lasting change takes time and effort.
  • Use social media as a starting point: Don't rely solely on online advice – seek professional help if needed.

Sample Answer

     

Here's a breakdown of your questions:

  1. Mandatory Counseling/Self-Help for Counselors?

There are pros and cons to consider:

  • Pros: Personal therapy can enhance a counselor's self-awareness, empathy, and ability to connect with clients. It can also help them manage countertransference (unconscious feelings towards clients) and avoid burnout.
  • Cons: Mandating therapy might discourage some qualified individuals from entering the field. Additionally, not all therapy experiences are created equal.