Counseling

6 Pages 1510 Words

The historical perspective of counseling is covered in depth in chapter one. The evolution of the counseling profession was developed in answer to the direct need brought about by the industrial and urbanization of America (Aubrey, 1982; Herr, 1985). The introduction of counseling first emerged as vocational guidance. Frank Parsons is actually credited by many as the “father of guidance counseling.” Vocational guidance gave way in the early 1900’s, or rather set the stage for school counseling. From 1917 to the late sixties, important legislative actions took place, which has had a strong influence on the counseling profession of today. Though legislative actions continue today, early legislation served to shape the initial idea and practice of counseling. The evolution of counseling finally segued into ‘professionalization.’ The counseling professions meet the criteria commonly used to review whether an occupation meets professional status. Accreditation, multiple types of certification and licensure are all key components in professional counseling.
According to Egan, 1998, the helping relationship can be broken down into three phases – relationship building, challenging the client and facilitating positive client actions. There seems to be many different ‘approaches’ to counseling, but I feel Egan’s approach is focused, simplistic and effective. All approaches aside, ultimately there is much the future counselor must reflect upon prior to making the decision to become a counselor. From Roger’s (1958) coining the phrase, “self-actualized” to Roger’s (1958) identification of the “four conditions” that all counselors should possess, there is a plethora of characteristics, which the new counselor should be aware.
While understanding the necessary characteristics of a counselor, the new counselor must also be keenly aware of the ethical and legal factors surrounding the counselor’s behavio...