Reflect on the process of developing leadership level knowledge, skills, and practices in this competency. What has been especially impactful/meaningful/important to you personally and professionally?
It was emphasized under this competency that the counseling relationship is most vital, thus, I devoted special attention to masterfully developing the therapeutic alliance. I feel confident about the knowledge I acquired of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance during my CES, CACREP expedition. From using basic skills to advance counseling techniques, I seek to preserve others’ self-confidence and dignity by integrating all aspects of effective counseling practice. During my practice instilling hope was embedded in the implementation of all selected evidence-based practices. By collaborating with the client, we would quickly pinpoint achievable objectives. Once felt safety is achieved in session, I work to maximize out-of-session change opportunities by judiciously selecting meaningful homework. I used the completion of their assignment to boost treatment adherence, which resulted in clinical follow-ups. This made sure treatment gains are maintained long after termination and allowed for my clinical practice to flow efficiently and ethically.

Describe an area of strength that you have developed while in the program in this area of competency. What is one way you plan to utilize this strength in your vocation?
Three of my strongest attributes developed while in this program are flexibility, empathy, and advocacy. To continue to strengthen these qualities, I will be engaging in continued growth professionally and personally, which will culminate in self-studies, supervision sessions, and consultations from experts in the field. I enjoyed helping the clients I serve to become life-long problem solvers. In order for me to do that I have to stay current with the field’s latest theoretical developments, clinical skills, research studies, and new technologies. My ultimate mission is to work myself out of a job with a client by helping that client to learn to navigate life on their own with maybe periodic mental health check-ups.

Describe an area of challenge/growth opportunity in this area of competency. What is your plan to develop excellence in this area?

Many times, I found myself conducting the diluted version of a technique or model based on training facilitated by a paraprofessional in the field. This was, and in some ways, still an area of weakness. As a result, the development of both my theoretical approach and therapeutic identity suffered. Throughout this program, I experienced an unlearning and relearning process, which I found valuable. Now my therapeutic arsenal is comprised of evidence-based practices and techniques that I intentionally strive to implement with true fidelity. I understand that techniques are only a small portion of the change factor during the counseling process, yet, I still strive for daily excellence in this area. To support the development of clinical tools inside of the counseling room, I have constructed working relationships with clients, their collaborative networks, and stakeholders, characterized by a high level of acceptance, cooperation, and mutual respect. From using basic skills to advance counseling techniques, I seek to preserve other self-confidence and dignity.

Reflect on how faith in Christ relates to this competency.
Through the seat of the counselor, I pray to be a wounded healer. I wish to develop the spiritual art of understanding, so I can go beyond what would be considered exemplary practice and understand what it feels like to be hurt and what it takes to heal.  I plan on developing excellence in this area by increasing my Christ-like qualities and increasing my faith and trust in God to become more like Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of a servant and that is who I thrive to be in the seat of the counselor.