Professional Counselor Interview Thomas Waterhouse
Running Head: COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 1
Professional Counselor Interview: Thomas Waterhouse, LMHC, PA Jennifer Mongelluzzi
Northwestern University COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 2
Professional Counselor Interview: Thomas Waterhouse, LMHC, PA
Thomas Waterhouse is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Palm Harbor, Florida. He operates a private practice and provides services in nearly all areas of treatment. What was so impressive to me about Tom is his passion for his profession after being a counselor for 40 years. He is still practicing full time and instead of feeling fatigue or burnout the client interaction actually energizes him (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). While interviewing Tom I quickly became aware that his sense of professionalism and therapeutic nature were quite notable. His knowledge, experience, and expertise are far more than I can ever imagine achieving beginning a new career at this stage in my life. In this paper I will reflect on my thoughts regarding Tom’s character and the qualities that make him a successful and effective counselor. I will also share some of …show more content…
his experiences as a counselor that have impacted him in his career. Lastly, I will describe my feelings about his thoughts on the profession of counseling we discussed in his interview.
Character and Therapeutic Qualities
I think Tom’s tolerance, compassion, and positivity are a tremendous asset in his clients ability to develop the trust and willingness needed to participate in therapy. He says he rarely has a difficult patient who is not willing to try his suggestions to some extent (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). Research in the article “The Role of Wisdom in Psychotherapy” lists the characteristics of wisdom compared to intelligence and suggests therapy would be more effective when therapists have these qualities (Hanna & Ottens, 1995, p.199). The characteristics mentioned are the same I could use to describe Tom’s character. He is respectful, authentic, and has his clients best interests at heart. Empathy, caring, and
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 3 understanding were also mentioned throughout the article. It concludes that these characteristics produce more effective and successful therapy. The article also indicates how the client will benefit by gaining characteristics of wisdom learned in therapy (Hanna & Ottens, 1995, p. 195).
Tom attributes his ability to continue counseling and the philosophies he has developed to his faith and spirituality. He shared how his life experiences as a troubled youth from a dysfunctional home and his service in the Marine Corps are what eventually drew him to this profession, and later in life to the faith he practices today. He did experience some depression while getting his doctorate degree and it continued until after he began his career. He knew he needed to change to be a successful counselor. Growing in his faith made him realize the potential for the positive change it can provide. He began to make it a central component of his philosophy and therapy (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16. 2018). I can identify with his feelings about his childhood and life experiences that may have resulted in choosing a career in counseling. I wanted to become a nurse when I was younger because of being in a caretaker role as a young girl and thought it was the right path for me. Choosing to to pursue counseling now is a decision I made for myself that will allow me to give back to others who are in the same position I was. I want to be a vessel for change in someone like it was offered to me. I do not know why I have been so blessed at this time in my life to have this privilege but I do know it was not my doing. I needed to go through everything I did to get here. That is the hope I want to share as a counselor. I agree with Tom’s thought that no matter what one’s belief system may be, there is something out there bigger than me and my problems (Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16. 2018). This acceptance of myself, others, and life in general is what brings me to my knees each night and up every morning grateful. I am
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 4 enjoying researching Carl Rogers and Carl Jung as their theories relate to these beliefs. I look forward to working towards learning about the deeper part of myself with self-reflection and awareness to allow it to surface. Practicing mindfulness and working to improve myself in hopes that I may be available to help others, creates a sense of belonging that promotes positive change around us for a greater good. That desire to help or serve another is so helpful to me. It heals and frees me from worry and doubts when in turn it serves a purpose to help another. Having quality of life is so important and I feel all members of society have an obligation to encourage each other to achieve that.
Counseling Experiences
Beginning in the clinical setting after graduation until his present day practice he has seen a multitude of illnesses and treated people of all ages from early childhood to late adulthood. Tom studied humanistic psychology in graduate school but says he uses an integration of theories and techniques in his practice today (Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). As an example he states that he sees a lot of clients suffering from depression and finds that using cognitive behavioral therapy and analytic psychology techniques in treatment are very effective (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). I look forward in my counseling career to gaining the knowledge and experience needed to do that for my clients as well. I think it is the best way to effectively treat each client individually. I hope to learn creative strategies that will make the client feel comfortable but encourage conversation and stay engaged. In the interview I asked Tom what is his least favorite part of his job is. At first he started to say there was nothing about the job he disliked, then he quickly answered that having to watch the clock still bothers him very much. He feels badly about the need to do that but
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 5 staying on schedule is so important out of respect for each clients time (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). I will really need to practice self discipline where time management is concerned. I can imagine losing track of time very easily while listening to the client. There is so much to be done in a session I would think it goes by very quickly. I will have to have a clock on every wall!
Tom has recently cut back his office hours but still maintains full nine hour days, three to four days a week. He is also a motivational speaker and does organizational development consulting making good use of his counseling experience. After 40 years, I am amazed he is still so eager to continue learning and growing. He said when we stop growing, we are dying (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). Counselors provide help to continue that journey with the hope that changes in behavior allow the client to achieve life’s potential. Stasis is not something that appeals to me so I think I will be eager to keep moving and growing. I think self-reflection is vital to continue that process of change. I believe change in the counselor is a necessity to stay motivated and be the most effective for the client.
Thoughts on the Counseling Profession
Tom no longer sees patients with the deep pathology he did when he first graduated. His practice has evolved over time to seeing clients now who present with a higher quality of problems. That does not change his love for counseling or the joy he gets from being with each one of his clients daily. After four decades in this profession he states it is even more fulfilling now than it was then (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). My hope is that I will also be blessed enough to feel that same passion he is privileged to feel as he works to be that force of change in people’s lives.
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 6
In the interview Tom shared his memories of Deinstitutionalization with me and the effects on society and the profession (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). He also reflected on retreats in the 1970’s that he would either work at or attend, and that he had the privilege of spending four days with Carl Rogers. He has heard many famous theorists speak such as Albert Ellis and B.F. Skinner. One of his professional concerns is still the stigma of mental illness in society and the barriers to care that it presents. He thinks of disorders like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and what can be done to improve patient outcomes for illnesses such as those. It makes me curious to know if new theories are being tested or will old ones continue to evolve, and whether any new research is being done on the brain and behavior. He shared his thoughts on requirements for mental health professionals to maintain self-care, be physically fit and practice self evaluation daily. A counselor can not be effective if there are any barriers coming between the client-counselor relationship. He has always been concerned that it is the patient who suffers when the counselor is not at their potential. It is unfair to the patient if the counselor is only giving them 50%, 70%, or even 80% of their efforts and attention. Each person in the relationship is a work in progress. I believe daily housekeeping is absolutely necessary to keep the head clear and emotions in check.
Final Reflections
Tom is a soft spoken, well dressed, and mild mannered man. He exudes patience, love, and tolerance. He has a zest for life that is contagious and must be a tremendous benefit to his patients. I found myself full of respect and admiration for him. The kindness and empathy evident in his demeanor is the authenticity I hope to offer my future clients. I am grateful for the opportunity to interview Tom and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was inspirational and educational as
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 7 well as thought provoking. Before I left, he asked why I chose counseling and my quick response was to share hope for change with someone who may need it. He responded, “Don’t ever lose sight of that because your desire to help others can ease another’s suffering. That is why you are doing this. Do not ever forget that” (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). I look forward to the possibility of learning more of the counseling wisdom he only began to share in our time together.
In closing, I am so grateful and excited for the opportunities ahead.
I have really enjoyed my time in the bridge program and having classmates from all over the country. I do not know what I would like to specialize in now. Up until two weeks ago, I thought I had decided on addiction counseling as that has been my plan for several years. I appreciate having had my eyes opened to all that is out there in counseling. It is an important and much needed profession in our society. It is a good feeling that so many people have an interest in helping others. Receiving the education to do anything from help someone out of an acute life situation to lobbying for change in policy and in our country is incredible. I would be honored to be a shoulder to cry on or a voice for those who do not have one. I feel as though I have an opportunity to work in the greatest profession there
is.
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 8
References
Hanna, F. J., & Ottens, A. J. (1995). The role of wisdom in psychotherapy. Journal of
Psychotherapy Integration, 5(3), 195-217. Waterhouse, T. (2018, January 16). Personal Interview.
Professional Counselor Interview: Thomas Waterhouse, LMHC, PA Jennifer Mongelluzzi
Northwestern University COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 2
Professional Counselor Interview: Thomas Waterhouse, LMHC, PA
Thomas Waterhouse is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Palm Harbor, Florida. He operates a private practice and provides services in nearly all areas of treatment. What was so impressive to me about Tom is his passion for his profession after being a counselor for 40 years. He is still practicing full time and instead of feeling fatigue or burnout the client interaction actually energizes him (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). While interviewing Tom I quickly became aware that his sense of professionalism and therapeutic nature were quite notable. His knowledge, experience, and expertise are far more than I can ever imagine achieving beginning a new career at this stage in my life. In this paper I will reflect on my thoughts regarding Tom’s character and the qualities that make him a successful and effective counselor. I will also share some of …show more content…
his experiences as a counselor that have impacted him in his career. Lastly, I will describe my feelings about his thoughts on the profession of counseling we discussed in his interview.
Character and Therapeutic Qualities
I think Tom’s tolerance, compassion, and positivity are a tremendous asset in his clients ability to develop the trust and willingness needed to participate in therapy. He says he rarely has a difficult patient who is not willing to try his suggestions to some extent (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). Research in the article “The Role of Wisdom in Psychotherapy” lists the characteristics of wisdom compared to intelligence and suggests therapy would be more effective when therapists have these qualities (Hanna & Ottens, 1995, p.199). The characteristics mentioned are the same I could use to describe Tom’s character. He is respectful, authentic, and has his clients best interests at heart. Empathy, caring, and
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 3 understanding were also mentioned throughout the article. It concludes that these characteristics produce more effective and successful therapy. The article also indicates how the client will benefit by gaining characteristics of wisdom learned in therapy (Hanna & Ottens, 1995, p. 195).
Tom attributes his ability to continue counseling and the philosophies he has developed to his faith and spirituality. He shared how his life experiences as a troubled youth from a dysfunctional home and his service in the Marine Corps are what eventually drew him to this profession, and later in life to the faith he practices today. He did experience some depression while getting his doctorate degree and it continued until after he began his career. He knew he needed to change to be a successful counselor. Growing in his faith made him realize the potential for the positive change it can provide. He began to make it a central component of his philosophy and therapy (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16. 2018). I can identify with his feelings about his childhood and life experiences that may have resulted in choosing a career in counseling. I wanted to become a nurse when I was younger because of being in a caretaker role as a young girl and thought it was the right path for me. Choosing to to pursue counseling now is a decision I made for myself that will allow me to give back to others who are in the same position I was. I want to be a vessel for change in someone like it was offered to me. I do not know why I have been so blessed at this time in my life to have this privilege but I do know it was not my doing. I needed to go through everything I did to get here. That is the hope I want to share as a counselor. I agree with Tom’s thought that no matter what one’s belief system may be, there is something out there bigger than me and my problems (Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16. 2018). This acceptance of myself, others, and life in general is what brings me to my knees each night and up every morning grateful. I am
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 4 enjoying researching Carl Rogers and Carl Jung as their theories relate to these beliefs. I look forward to working towards learning about the deeper part of myself with self-reflection and awareness to allow it to surface. Practicing mindfulness and working to improve myself in hopes that I may be available to help others, creates a sense of belonging that promotes positive change around us for a greater good. That desire to help or serve another is so helpful to me. It heals and frees me from worry and doubts when in turn it serves a purpose to help another. Having quality of life is so important and I feel all members of society have an obligation to encourage each other to achieve that.
Counseling Experiences
Beginning in the clinical setting after graduation until his present day practice he has seen a multitude of illnesses and treated people of all ages from early childhood to late adulthood. Tom studied humanistic psychology in graduate school but says he uses an integration of theories and techniques in his practice today (Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). As an example he states that he sees a lot of clients suffering from depression and finds that using cognitive behavioral therapy and analytic psychology techniques in treatment are very effective (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). I look forward in my counseling career to gaining the knowledge and experience needed to do that for my clients as well. I think it is the best way to effectively treat each client individually. I hope to learn creative strategies that will make the client feel comfortable but encourage conversation and stay engaged. In the interview I asked Tom what is his least favorite part of his job is. At first he started to say there was nothing about the job he disliked, then he quickly answered that having to watch the clock still bothers him very much. He feels badly about the need to do that but
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 5 staying on schedule is so important out of respect for each clients time (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). I will really need to practice self discipline where time management is concerned. I can imagine losing track of time very easily while listening to the client. There is so much to be done in a session I would think it goes by very quickly. I will have to have a clock on every wall!
Tom has recently cut back his office hours but still maintains full nine hour days, three to four days a week. He is also a motivational speaker and does organizational development consulting making good use of his counseling experience. After 40 years, I am amazed he is still so eager to continue learning and growing. He said when we stop growing, we are dying (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). Counselors provide help to continue that journey with the hope that changes in behavior allow the client to achieve life’s potential. Stasis is not something that appeals to me so I think I will be eager to keep moving and growing. I think self-reflection is vital to continue that process of change. I believe change in the counselor is a necessity to stay motivated and be the most effective for the client.
Thoughts on the Counseling Profession
Tom no longer sees patients with the deep pathology he did when he first graduated. His practice has evolved over time to seeing clients now who present with a higher quality of problems. That does not change his love for counseling or the joy he gets from being with each one of his clients daily. After four decades in this profession he states it is even more fulfilling now than it was then (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). My hope is that I will also be blessed enough to feel that same passion he is privileged to feel as he works to be that force of change in people’s lives.
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 6
In the interview Tom shared his memories of Deinstitutionalization with me and the effects on society and the profession (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). He also reflected on retreats in the 1970’s that he would either work at or attend, and that he had the privilege of spending four days with Carl Rogers. He has heard many famous theorists speak such as Albert Ellis and B.F. Skinner. One of his professional concerns is still the stigma of mental illness in society and the barriers to care that it presents. He thinks of disorders like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and what can be done to improve patient outcomes for illnesses such as those. It makes me curious to know if new theories are being tested or will old ones continue to evolve, and whether any new research is being done on the brain and behavior. He shared his thoughts on requirements for mental health professionals to maintain self-care, be physically fit and practice self evaluation daily. A counselor can not be effective if there are any barriers coming between the client-counselor relationship. He has always been concerned that it is the patient who suffers when the counselor is not at their potential. It is unfair to the patient if the counselor is only giving them 50%, 70%, or even 80% of their efforts and attention. Each person in the relationship is a work in progress. I believe daily housekeeping is absolutely necessary to keep the head clear and emotions in check.
Final Reflections
Tom is a soft spoken, well dressed, and mild mannered man. He exudes patience, love, and tolerance. He has a zest for life that is contagious and must be a tremendous benefit to his patients. I found myself full of respect and admiration for him. The kindness and empathy evident in his demeanor is the authenticity I hope to offer my future clients. I am grateful for the opportunity to interview Tom and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was inspirational and educational as
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 7 well as thought provoking. Before I left, he asked why I chose counseling and my quick response was to share hope for change with someone who may need it. He responded, “Don’t ever lose sight of that because your desire to help others can ease another’s suffering. That is why you are doing this. Do not ever forget that” (T. Waterhouse, personal communication, January 16, 2018). I look forward to the possibility of learning more of the counseling wisdom he only began to share in our time together.
In closing, I am so grateful and excited for the opportunities ahead.
I have really enjoyed my time in the bridge program and having classmates from all over the country. I do not know what I would like to specialize in now. Up until two weeks ago, I thought I had decided on addiction counseling as that has been my plan for several years. I appreciate having had my eyes opened to all that is out there in counseling. It is an important and much needed profession in our society. It is a good feeling that so many people have an interest in helping others. Receiving the education to do anything from help someone out of an acute life situation to lobbying for change in policy and in our country is incredible. I would be honored to be a shoulder to cry on or a voice for those who do not have one. I feel as though I have an opportunity to work in the greatest profession there
is.
COUNSELOR INTERVIEW 8
References
Hanna, F. J., & Ottens, A. J. (1995). The role of wisdom in psychotherapy. Journal of
Psychotherapy Integration, 5(3), 195-217. Waterhouse, T. (2018, January 16). Personal Interview.