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What Makes an Effective Counsellor?(Date ; January 15 2025)


Today, we had a very interesting class about counselling. More like we watched a video labelled 'David'. It was something that aimed at making us, the future Psychologists understand why it is necessary to keep personal and professional life separate and happy in its own terms. Life may not always be greener on both sides, but if we do take steps for the same who knows, maybe just maybe we will experience a very positive yet fulfilling role as a counsellor and as an individual who lives in this ever changing world. It's not always too late to seek help, many professional counsellors do.

When I first thought of the term "effective counsellor," the picture that formed in my mind was of someone wise, empathetic, and kind — someone you could trust without a second thought. Google defines an effective counsellor as a professional who possesses certain skills like active listening, empathy, communication, and non-judgmental understanding to help individuals navigate their issues.  


However, my personal experiences taught me that being an effective counsellor is far more than just knowing theories and techniques. During school, when I was once sent to a counsellor for a minor disciplinary issue, the interaction felt robotic, almost mechanical. The counsellor kept nodding absentmindedly, barely maintaining eye contact, and gave me generalized advice that could apply to just about anyone. I remember leaving that room feeling even more alone and misunderstood than before.

For a long time, this experience shaped my distrust in the effectiveness of counselling. But slowly, as I advanced in my psychology course, I realized that effective counselling depends not only on what a counsellor says but how they make you feel — heard, validated, and respected.  
An effective counsellor needs to be empathetic, genuine, and patient. They should be someone who can create a safe space where clients feel seen, not judged or lectured. More than fancy jargon, what matters is emotional presence.

Today, while I still carry some remnants of that early disappointment, I am learning that one bad experience doesn't define an entire field. Perhaps, one day, I can become the kind of effective counsellor I once needed — someone who truly listens.

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