Pyc3705 Transformative Counselling Encounters

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It is unusual for a first counselling session encounter to focus in so quickly on contracting. In

this instance, it demonstrates how Thembi followed Marylinda’s lead and unconditional

regard for the importance of clarity and structure for Marylinda. The skilled counsellor will

also have a hunch about how the need for predictability and structure may suggest some

anxiety and potentially even distrust at a deeper level. Such a counsellor will also tentatively

wonder about where these patterns originate from and how they impact on other

relationships in Marylinda’s life.

In this initial phase of a counselling process, it is greatly about establishing rapport – that is,

a meaningful relationship, whether with an individual client, a couple, a counselling group,

or the community in which the counselling encounter occurs. The principle is about moving

into a new space or context in a manner that is sensitive, respectful and appropriate. The

possibility is that if the counsellor is negative and rejecting, the client might withdraw and

cease to share his/her stories. Thembi’s preparation ensured that Marylinda was

comfortable to continue with the session.

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We have come to understand counselling to be about engaging another person in a

transformative encounter. Mostly, but certainly not always, it is around areas and issues

that cause the client great discomfort. There is much that skilled counsellors can do to

contribute to opening up a space for meaningful engagement. Among other things, the

counsellor’s warmth, congruence, empathy and non-judgemental and unconditionally

accepting attitude towards the client are of great importance.

Thembi was well prepared for her session with Marylinda

On the day of their appointment, Thembi is anxious about seeing Marylinda, who has a

different cultural background and so much experience in marriage. Her prospective client,

Marylinda, is also almost her mother’s age.

With all this in mind,...