When i started my counselling course, we where given this poem to help us understand what counselling is really about, from the clients perspective. It really helped me.
" When i asked you to listen to me and you start
Giving me advice, you have
Not done what i asked.
When i ask you to listen to me and you begin
To tell me why I shouldn't feel that way, you are
Trampling on my feelings.
When i ask you to listen to me and you fell you have
To do something to solve my problems,
You have failed me, strange as that may seem.
LISTEN! All I asked was that you listen,
Not talk, or do- just hear me."
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This is so true and I for one am quick to speak instead of listen. I need to learn to listen.
ReplyDeleteI think your sharing about counselling studies is a wonderful idea.
Thank you, Claire. As someone who has both endured and benefited from counseling, in addition to facilitating groups myself, I can tell you first hand that this poem hits the mark. Few things are more frustrating than trying to communicate with a counselor who has decided what you need with no input from you.
ReplyDeleteNice blog Claire. I added a link to your blog on mine. When you go on your world tour in 2008 stop by and see us here in the far north of California.
ReplyDeleteGene
Hello! i may just do that!
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking me! i really appreciate it!
Cheers
Claire