A counselor must not allow personal experiences or biases to enter the counseling relationship. The counselor cannot impose their belief system on the client. A client who can be persuaded by the counselor to embrace an idea, belief or decision cannot be expected to maintain the stance because someone else …show more content…
One must utilize wisdom, discernment and understanding when decided on the appropriate level of self-disclosure. A counselor should never self-disclose with a wrong motive or to manipulate and coerce the client. Sharing a part of one’s self as a counselor should be embarked on with the utmost care and integrity. This type of sharing is only appropriate when it assists the client with understanding that they are not alone in what they are feeling and experiencing. If a counselor can share a personal story that connects with the client’s story offering hope, then it is appropriate to share only to the degree that is helpful to the client.
The counselor should be mindful of the client and be certain that the counseling process meets the needs of the client without undue infringement on the client as it relates to self-disclosure. The counselor should be mindful that sharing one’s story differs from imposing one’s beliefs and values.
Pastors utilizing human services counseling are in a different position in regards to sharing beliefs and values within a biblical context. However, this also should be embarked upon with the prompting of the Holy Spirit because a pastor can impart spiritual instruction but only God can change the heart. It is certain that it essential for a pastor to love unconditionally in the midst of sin and brokenness while encouraging one to develop an intimate relationship with the creator