Counselor Interview Analysis

This author recently completed an interview with a professional counselor. In this authors opinion when you get a chance to ask a fellow counselor questions about being a counselor it is rewarding. Counselors will always need to seek consultation with other professionals, weather those professionals be counselors, teachers, doctors, or individuals in the court system. Anytime someone has a chance to go an interview with these professionals, it helps with professionalism and knowledge of what these other individuals expect from you as a counselor to help all clients.
This author did an interview with a fellow by the name of Robert Stevens and these are some of the questions this author asked him. This author asked Robert where he went to school
Robert enunciated that when he feels like he is not helping a client. Robert expressed this does not happen very often, but it is usually because the client is not wanting to change his/her mindset like they should to grow. Robert discusses that the times he has come across this type of resistance is when the court system orders the client to treatment. Robert also went on to say usually these people have no desire to stop using or working on mental health issues. Then the author wanted to discuss how to network or build professional relationships in the counseling field. Robert discussed the importance of building those connections whether it be for consultation or opportunities to learn new techniques for this difficult clients. Robert discussed that attending state, regional, and national conferences is a good way to build
Robert suggested to always seek supervision. One important piece is meeting that client where he is in his treatment. Robert expressed that not all client want to change and not all clients will change. The important part is making them feel comfortable and building rapport and that is through meeting them where they are at in their life. Robert also expressed that it is important to never compromise the counseling relationship. Then Robert and this author discussed supervisor issues. This author asked Robert, what suggestions do you have for attaining and maintaining supervision throughout one's professional career? Robert expressed that a great rapport with your supervisor is important. He stressed never be afraid to voice your concerns or opinions with your supervisor. Robert discussed how important supervisor is important and that relationship should never be compromised. If the clinician does not feel comfortable with their current supervisor do not be afraid to change, because if a person does not trust their supervisor then will not feel comfortable discussing difficult clients. Robert also discussed how he thinks it is important that clinical supervisors have an open door policy when it comes to the people they