Summarising the Helping Session Notes

Criteria 3.2: Summarising the Helping Session

Definition of Summarising

  • Summarising is a critical counselling skill utilized to condense or crystallize the main points of what the helpee is expressing and feeling.
  • The helper engages in summarising by "reflecting back" the main points discussed in the session.
  • This process allows the helpee to have the opportunity to recap or clarify their thoughts and feelings.

Distinction from Paraphrasing

  • Summarising vs. Paraphrasing:
    • Summarising covers a more extended time period compared to paraphrasing.
    • Paraphrasing typically captures shorter segments of conversation or individual statements, while summarising encompasses overarching themes and main ideas that have emerged over a lengthier discussion.

Timing of Summaries

  • Summaries can be applied at various points within a counselling session:
    • After a significant time has passed within the session.
    • Around halfway through the session to consolidate understanding.
    • Near the end of the session to encapsulate the discussion.

Purpose of Summaries

  • Summaries serve multiple essential functions in the counselling process:
    • Clarifying Emotions: Helps both the helper and the helpee better understand the emotions being communicated.
    • Reviewing Work Done: Provides an opportunity to review what has been accomplished or discussed thus far in the session.
    • Closing a Session: Facilitates drawing together the main threads of discussion, effectively closing the session.
    • Beginning Subsequent Sessions: Can be used to introduce the topic at the start of the next session if deemed appropriate.
    • Focusing and Prioritising: Aids in sorting out 'scattered' thoughts and feelings, helping to bring clarity to the helpee's mind.
    • Advancing the Helping Process: Moves the overall helping process forward by summarizing key moments and insights from the session.

Personal Reflection

  • Reflection Prompt: How do you feel when someone has clearly listened and understood you?
    • This question encourages the helper to consider the emotional impact of effective listening and understanding in a helping relationship.