Basic Issues in Workplace Counseling Practice

they know who they are

✓ what they are capable of becoming

✓ what they want out of life

✓ and what is essential

they know who they are

✓ what they are capable of becoming

✓ what they want out of life

✓ and what is essential

Have an identity

Open to change

They exhibit a willingness and courage to leave the security of the known if they are not satisfied with the way they are

Make choices that are life-oriented

They are aware of early decisions they made about themselves, others, and the world

Are authentic, sincere, and honest

They do not hide behind rigid roles or facades

✓ Who they are in their personal life and in their professional work is congruent

Have a sense of humor

Able to put the events of life in perspective ✓ Have not forgotten how to laugh, especially at their own shortcomings and contradictions

Make mistakes and are willing to admit them

Do not dismiss their errors lightly, yet they do not choose to dwell on them, either

Live in the present

✓ Are not riveted to the past, nor are they fixated on the future ✓ Able to experience and be present with others in the “now”

Appreciate the influence of culture

✓ Aware of the ways in which their own culture affects them ✓ Respect the diversity of values embraced by other cultures ✓ Sensitive to the uniqueness arising out of social class, race, sexual orientation, and gender

Have a sincere interest in the welfare of others

✓ Concern is based on respect, care, trust, and a real valuing of others

Possess effective interpersonal skills

✓ Capable of entering the world of others without getting lost in this world ✓ Strive to create collaborative relationships with others ✓ Readily entertain another person’s perspective and can work together toward consensual goals

Deeply involved in their work and derive meaning from it

✓ Can accept rewards flowing from their work, yet they are not slaves to their work

Able to maintain healthy boundaries

✓ Although they strive to be fully present for their clients, they don’t carry the problems of their clients around with them during leisure hours ✓ Know how to say no, which enables them to maintain balance in their lives

Passionate

✓ Have the courage to pursue their dreams and passions ✓ They radiate a sense of enery