Therapeutic Relationship Essay

Welcome and thank you for choosing THRIVE for your counseling services. This document is designed to tell you about my background and help you understand our professional relationship.

Philosophy and Approach: I believe in the healing power of telling one’s story in a safe space. My approach is eclectic and trauma informed, drawing upon systems theory and the study of attachment and neurobiology. I use gestalt, mindfulness, and other practices as appropriate.

The Therapeutic Relationship: A therapeutic relationship between a counselor and client is a professional relationship in which the counselor helps the client to make positive changes in his or her life. Research consistently shows that it is the quality of the therapeutic relationship that best predicts a client’s ability to use therapy to help themselves make positive life changes. It is a unique relationship in that while the client typically shares very personal information with the counselor, in an atmosphere of warmth and trust, the relationship takes place within the fifty-minute therapy appointments and within the boundaries of the therapeutic contract. It is the adherence of these boundaries which make therapy possible

I began the journey towards my Masters degree in Counseling in August 2013 and am currently enrolled full-time at Spring Arbor University. In preparing for my Masters Degree in Counseling, I am required to complete 700 hours of clinical service under the direct supervision of a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been placed at THRIVE Counseling Services, and Anna Walton M.A, LPC will be supervising my clinical placement. I have special training in Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Work, and Grief and Loss Therapy, and am working towards my Trauma Certification. I am currently a case manager at a long term care facility for Health and Rehabilitation, and Traumatic Brain Injury