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RISING WOMEN EXPERT
ADVICE...
What is the
preferred way to choose a Counsellor/ Social Worker who will best meet my
needs?
In my experience as a Social Worker in Clinical practice for a number of
years, often when potential clients contact me for a consultation they are
in a challenging personal situation, experiencing stress and are vulnerable.
Similar to receiving any other service, you are the consumer, and it is your
right to choose a therapist who best meets your needs. The more informed you
are about your need and the more you know what the therapist has to offer,
the better the match and the more helpful the counselling will be. First,
and foremost, pay attention to your intuition; trust your “gut” or your own
feelings about the therapist. Check their website and professional
designation with their regulatory body, such as the Alberta College of
Social Workers.
As a consumer, you also have rights and responsibilities in the therapeutic
relationship. You have the right to ask questions at anytime, including
whether the counsellor offers a free initial consultation. Sometimes this is
a way to confirm your “gut” feelings about whether the therapist is right
for you, even it’s only a 20-minute briefing. You also have the right to ask
about the therapist’s qualifications, areas of specialization and
confidentiality (and in what specific circumstances that confidentiality can
be revoked), as well as be informed of the fee for therapy.
It is also important to have the option to specify, negotiate or change your
therapeutic goals; discuss your therapy with others, including getting a
second opinion; expect respect; be treated with dignity no matter your age,
gender, mental and physical status, sexual preference, race, religion or
ethic background; and be assured of your therapist’s commitment to your
right to self- determination.
On the flip side, you have the responsibility to make counselling a
priority; be punctual; pay your fees on time; attend regularly; cancel your
appointment if necessary and re-schedule; be respectful, honest and open;
and finally, follow through on “agreed” upon support work (or homework).
If you are working with a helpful therapist, you will begin to better
recognize and understand your feelings, thoughts and behaviors. You will
develop new, more effective coping strategies, and you should have a sense
of change, increased joy and satisfaction in your life.
Mary Arbique Vogel, owner of Heart Center Integrated Wellness invites
you to attend an introductory The Way of the Heart gateway session. For more
details, contact 403.238.3413 or visit
www.crystalisera.com
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