The Middle Stage: Deeper Exploration
The middle stage on counseling brings in a shift in the counselor’s focus. As compared to the initial stage where the focus is on the cognitive level of the client’s issues, the middle phase explores more deeper and emotional level of the client’s concerns. This stage is also marked by increased disclosure on the part of the client. Let’s have a look at sample outline of a middle session: Introduction – the first 10 minutes · Greet the client warmly – smile (and shake hands if hand is extended or is appropriate.) Escort to your office. · Offer a chair and a drink of water. Give the client the chance to speak out the things bothering him before you move to information gathering. These concerns may be deceptive – but may be pre-occupying. Or these concerns may form the major part of this session. Explain how this second (third, etc.) visit will progress. That you...