PSYC 340 session report 4

Description

Session Report 4Build on the session report 3 attached and continue writing a new report based on the previous reports attached. Use the toolbox attachment as a refereance and apply theories mentioned in the toolbox attachments to continue writing the report. You have to use the notes of week 6 and 7 mentioned in the toolbox attachment and apply the theories into continuing the report Look at the grading criteria images attached and pay attention to the professor notes. Upon completing your counseling session, download your report from the previous week and begin this week’s report at the top of that document by following the guidelines specified in the Session Report Rubric found in the syllabus.Use the rubric and ensure all aspects of it are answered and covered. Some of the content mentioned in the example may not be in your text (LUV, SOLAR, etc), use the ones you are covering in your course or research on the topic. You are required to turn in your session report within 48 hours after your session. This gives your instructor the opportunity to provide supervision and respond to your report prior to your next session. You are required to use the suggestions your professor has provided in your next session with your client if s/he makes recommended changes, rather than simply following what you had planned. Be sure to include all sections of the report even on your final session, as if you are continuing treatment.

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Counseling session report 3
12/15/2023
PSYC 340
D. KING
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Client information
Gender: FEMALE
Race: WHITE
Marital Status: SINGLE
Work-life: RETAIL
Presenting Issue: SELF ESTEEM
Session Date and Time: 12/15/2023 9 AM DUBAI TIME/ 9PM CALI TIME
Overview
The central issue underlying this counseling was focused on the legal and moral aspects
that characterize psychological treatment. A primary framework, which is the examination of the
Tarasoff rule, and the liabilities that therapists bear in notifying, or safeguarding others, was used
as the basis on which professional responsibilities are understood. Also, reviewing California
Penal Code Section 11165.7 revealed that some professionals had to be responsible for reporting
suspicions of child abuse. Permissive reporting’ discretion and subtle effect on mandatory
reporting was keenly reviewed bearing in mind safety of people’s private lives.
At about the same time, SFT offered a pragmatic therapeutic strategy as part of the
process. SFT was demonstrated as a client-friendly and time conscious approach that focused on
positive thinking and future orientation. Flexibility as a treatment component specific for SFT
and its applications in diverse fields ranging from depression to treating substance abuse.
Additionally, it discussed the Miracle Question technique used in SFT which has been proven to
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bring out deep responses without causing a lot of pain. In order to uphold all ethics and therapy,
the session was based on the counselor’s commitment to respect diversity, acknowledge each
person’s spirituality and religion, as well as creating a collaborative environment that would be
empowering to individuals in need in solving her self esteem issues.
Helpful skilled used
In facilitating this counseling session, two crucial skills were employed to enhance the
therapeutic process:
1. Active Listening:
This session was crucial for active listening which showed that I really cared about my clients.
Focusing on both verbal and non-verbal signs, the counselor became aware of the details that lie
within the issues, conflicts, and personal revelations of the client. This ability developed a strong
and honest therapeutic relationship that led to a better perception of the client’s emotions,
problems, and aims. The active listening together with reflective response helped create an
atmosphere where the client felt like part of that team.
2. Cultural Competence:
Through reflection on personal views of the Otter temperament type, I displayed culture
competency and dedication to increasing cultural competence abilities. In relation to the culture
diversity aspect of counseling relationship, the importance of the Otter was recognized while the
weaknesses and strength of this personality type were stated as well. I showed the willingness of
appreciating the clients who are foreigners in order to understand their cultures. This skill was
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important in developing an inclusive and individualized treatment plan that helped the me
connect with the client on a personal level as well as provide a culturally appropriate support.
Strengths
1. Ethical Awareness and Application:
One of my unique strengths is ethical awareness and application in counsel settings. Showing a
strong sense of ethical consideration including, but not limited to mandatory reporting and the
Tarasoff rule, I demonstrate that I am committed to best practice (Truax et al.,2007). This
demonstrates the consciousness of complex environments within which professionals operate.
Therefore, in examining the implications associated with this code section and discussing the
subject of non-mandatory reporting along with the concept of discretion in therapy, I provide
additional evidence of my aptitude in addressing the complex ethical issues that emerge in
therapy. The firm’s ability to demonstrate determination towards providing its clients with
quality health care services that meet ethical requirements and regulations results in such types of
sessions.
2. Solution-Focused Therapy Expertise:
The other strength that I have is my expertise in solution-focused therapy. The use of SFT
techniques on a proficient level gives the opportunity to tackle specific issues related to meeting
the client’s requirements. Using the Miracle Question method in counseling within SFT
illustrates an adept approach to helping clients achieve favorable results but avoid potentially
delicate and awkward topics. Besides, my ability of explaining the flexibility of SFT and how it
is client-focused and future-orientated proves strong point regarding use of evidence-based
therapeutic methods. The competence facilitates creation of cooperating and empowering
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therapy atmosphere that complementing needs of the client for quick session and addressing
practical solutions.
Weaknesses
1. Limited Familiarity with Recent Counseling Techniques:
Weakness: One weakness was lack of knowledge about new counseling strategies in an
increasingly changing field of counseling.
Improvement Strategy: Attend regularly organized workshops, webinars and other conferences
related to new directions of counseling. Keeping updated on emerging trends entails regularly
reading current literature and journal articles. Encourage a growth-oriented mindset by seeking
out professional guidance and incorporating novel approaches into existing practices.
2. Challenges in Balancing Empathy and Objectivity:
Weakness: the second weakness was striking the correct cord between being too objective and
being able to have an empathic response. The second limitation results from the ability of a
counselor to have an empathic response. If the counselor is too emphatic or shows a high level of
compassion,
Improvement Strategy: Apply reflective supervision that reveals more about your individual
counseling style. For example, use forms of reflection like writing or a journal log in order to
assess the sessions and find times when one’s objectiveness may be reduced. Solicit collegial or
supervisory input for improving one’s self-awareness. You can try including mindfulness or selfregulation exercises when maintaining a balance between objectivity and empathy during
session.
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Scriptures
The story about Joseph, who is one of the biblical characters from the Old Testament, gives
powerful reasons on the moral issues related to counseling (Nelson, 2012). The book of Genesis
depicts Joseph’s long journey characterized by tenacity and steadfast dedication to virtue. The
morality of Joseph’s stand as he resisted the temptation to yield to Potiphar was very meaningful
for the session as it touched on the legal and the ethics principles. This is a moral story with a
strong message that it is important to be honest and upright even when we face difficulties.
Regarding the New Testament, we can draw lessons from the character of Barnabas as related to
the specialization of SFT expertise.-b In the Book of Acts, he is found as a famous encourager
and comforter. He empowered other people especially evidenced through his support for Paul
that conforms with the SFT environment which promotes collaboration and empowerment.
Therefore, by considering how Barnabas did things, counselors might draw some conclusions
regarding the usefulness of encouraging and collaborative work. After all, this type of work
should naturally be a part of solution focused approach.
Goals of the next session
1. Further Exploration of Solution-Focused Techniques:
To deepen the client’s understanding and engagement with Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)
techniques, particularly focusing on practical applications such as the Miracle Question (De
shazer et al., 2021). The session aims to provide additional opportunities for the client to use and
benefit from these techniques, reinforcing the client-centered and future-oriented aspects of SFT.
By actively involving the client in solution-building conversations, the goal is to enhance their
sense of empowerment and self-efficacy.
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2. Continued Integration of Ethical Considerations:
Building on the foundation laid in previous sessions regarding ethical considerations, the
next session aims to further integrate ethical principles into the counseling process. This includes
revisiting legal obligations, such as the Tarasoff rule and mandatory reporting, and exploring any
emerging ethical dilemmas the client may be facing. The objective is to ensure a comprehensive
understanding of ethical responsibilities, fostering a safe and responsible therapeutic
environment. This goal aligns with the counselor’s commitment to maintaining the highest
professional standards and prioritizing the welfare of the client.
Steps for Achieving the Stated Goals.
1. Further exploration into solution-focused techniques.
The next session will focus on making the client more skilled in SFT. The following will involve
a short summary of former discussed SFT strategies, with particular focus on ‘The Miracle
Question.’ This will act as a foundation for the journey ahead. Directly linked with the client’s
specific worries and aims, real life application scenarios of using SFT methods will be presented
in order to make it all more accessible, clear, and understandable. Role-play exercises will
provide an opportunity for experiencing how to apply the SFT concepts by switching between
the roles of the counselor and the client. At the end of the meeting there will be a reflective
dialogue on assignments that will stimulate the client to practice the SFT at home.
2. Continued Integration of Ethical Considerations:
The second objective which entails the continuous inclusion of ethics issues will be achieved
through a deliberate and collaborative manner. The case scenario discussions involving
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hypothetical incidents and scenarios of ethics issues in life are the modes to develop an
understanding of ethics’ dilemma. In this regard, the client will be apprised about the Tarasoff
rule and mandatory reporting with a re-visit of legal obligations, maintaining clarity thereon.
This will encourage an open discussion on possible points of conflict or congruence with the
existing counseling ethics regarding a personalized exploration of the client’s ethical framework
and belief. The sessions’ goal is also to help the client in dealing with various ethical issues
arising between the counselor and themselves.
Feedback from the instructor
The instructor praised the counselor´s skilled implementation of SFT strategy, especially,
using Miracle Question directing the customer toward future achievements. The counselor’s
detailed knowledge of legal and ethic issues, seen in a subtle analysis of the Tarasoff principle
and statutory reporting, was applauded. There was also an argument that more case scenarios
should be included when discussing ethics dilemmas in order to increase clients’ grasp of these
issues with regard to reality. In general, the instructor highlighted the counselor’s strengths in
ethics awareness and self-awareness therapies and encouraged more work done on adapting these
skills in varied counseling cases.
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References
De Shazer, S., Dolan, Y., Korman, H., Trepper, T., McCollum, E., & Berg, I. K. (2021). More
than miracles: The state of the art of s olution-focused brief therapy. Routledge.
Nelson, T. S., & Thomas, F. N. (Eds.). (2012). Handbook of solution-focused brief therapy:
Clinical applications. Routledge.
Truax, C. B., & Carkhuff, R. (2007). Toward effective counseling and psychotherapy: Training
and practice. Transaction Publishers.
11/4/2023 toolbox Ali Alrobia
The Tarasoff rule and the whole concept of holding therapists liable for warning or
defending strangers or family members of their clients.
California Penal Code Section 11165.7. is valuable in holding certain professions
accountable to identify and report any suspicions of child abuse.
permissive reporters do create discretion when reporting, which helps both the
suspicious danger and the victim! The effectiveness of mandatory reporting largely
depends on the professionalism, ethics, and judgment of those involved in the process.
Balancing between protecting individuals and respecting their rights and dignity is a
complex challenge that needs constant consideration and improvement.
All the readings from week 1 were immensely informative.
11/13/2023 toolbox update:
Solution-focused therapy can bypass the reasoning and causes behind the client’s
feelings or issues, and instead the technique focuses on finding solutions for the clients
rather than making them overthink the causes of what made the problem appear. SFT is
a perfect fit for clients who would like to get more time -efficient sessions and are not
interested in long-term therapy. SFT is client-centered, which means the therapists
focuses on working directly with the clients to create solutions, which empowers t he
client to take serious steps in order for them to work on their goals and see positive
outcomes. SFT encourages positive thinking and helps the client think for the future in
terms of solutions instead of dwelling on the past. SFT also encourages clients to
highlight and use their strengths in order to battle their demons, which also empowers
.the client by making him focus on his strengths and not only his weaknesses
SFT strategy is applicable in many different situations and can deal with a lot of different
issues, such as depression, anxiety, and even substance abuse! this versatility makes it
a valuable approach in different therapeutic settings. SFT reduces clients stress about
being stigmatized. SFT would be perfect for clients who fear being labeled and judged
by a therapist or by the act of going to therapy, SFT provides comfort for such clients
because it focuses on solutions rather than diagnosis, which makes i t perfect for both
the client and the therapist because the therapist can get a lot of information to work with
using SFT. SFT opens the door for more friendliness in the therapy room as the therapist
is more seen as a guide than a therapist when using SFT techniques, which makes this
approach more welcomed by people who feel disconnected from the therapist, SFT
approach fosters this type of friendly, collaborative environment and helps clients learn
.about themselves and heal quicker by taking actions sometimes
Seeing clients being expressive when asked the “Miracle question” and engaging in
conversation where they are identifying how their life would be if everything is fixed felt
like a breeze of air. Also, the amount of inside knowledge a client can tell about himself
without noticing by answering this question is crazy. The miracle question is like shooting
an arrow of fire into the darkness of the clients heart and eventually lighting up his soul
and seeing a glimpse of his dark corners. it gives therapists a lot of room to work with
without getting too personal with the client and without opening up sensitive topics about
the discomfort they are feeling because they are focused on the solution instead when
they are asked the “Miracle question” this technique is amazing and I am very thankful
for learning all of this in this week’s lesson.
Toolbox 3 11/18/2023
I have learnt the difference between spirituality and religion and also I have learnt the
proper way to introduce religion to my clients or even ask them about it properly !
An easy way to introduce this into a counseling session is to ask, “are there any faith
practices that you currently practice, or have practiced in the past?” The client will
respond to this question in any of a number of ways, and whatever their answer is, will
likely let you know what the current perspective is on religion and spirituality. Then, you
can go from there, as appropriate.
In defining spirituality and religion, it is indispensable to recognize their multi-dimensionality.
While both are integral to human life, their manifestation and influence vary considerably
across individuals, cultures, and time. Spirituality, often considered the broader of the two,
denotes a universal human experience—transcending beyond specific religious doctrines or
traditions. From this perspective, spirituality reflects self-transcendence, interconnectedness,
personal growth, and the quest for ultimate reality. Conversely, religion is construed as a
systematized set of beliefs, practices, and symbols designed to facilitate closeness to the
sacred, enabling one to transcend the ordinary in search of existential meaning. Religious
faith sprouts from specific traditions that prescribe communal norms, virtues, rituals, and
shared beliefs about the sacred. It builds one’s worldview, guiding values, moral guidelines,
and expected behaviors. From these definitions, religion essentially forms a subset of
spirituality. Spirituality is an expansive and inclusive construct, encapsulating not only
religious experiences (spiritual and religious) but also secular ones (spiritual but not
religious).
Another impressing statement you’ve made is that religion is a holy map that was sent
by God in order to guide humanity. I believe that religion can be used as a tool. Religion
has a set of beliefs, a traditional order, and rules. This holy map is used as a tool, to
keep us in line, and help our walk be in fear of God, to keep our eyes on the light of the
Lord. I agree with you that religion and spirituality definitely aids the field of psychology.
Week 4 11/24/2023 update
Hi everyone !
Upon finishing Smalley Center Free Personality test, I found out that my personality type
is classified as “the Otter” This personality type is very excitable. This personality type
thrives in motivating others, but sometimes struggle to motivate themselves. Thats why
they have to be in an environment where they can talk and have major voice
discussions. Otters have an outgoing nature which makes them great networkers.
Nevertheless otters must learn to be serious during serious times, which is something I
struggle in my personal life and I have to make sure I put the right effort into not making
this an issue in my professional life.
Otter personality type thrives with independence and the freedom in the psychology of
being creative in catering a plan that suits the client is a strength that the Otter
personality type can leverage. I will personally be increasing my Cultural Competence
skills by practicing being a better listener and listen deeply to others. Relating to my
clients feelings can strengthen my personality type and make me more understanding to
clients from different cultures. I will also make sure to learn about different cultures which
is something I love, It always makes me find similarities between cultures and see how
similarities and differences make up this human experience.
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1BhMq_W1fM_6hneNh9NI30VwrG61ImRIADgV
hp1Retzk/edit#slide=id.gc6f90357f_0_0
It is important to always remember to not make assumptions
about the participant(s) you are working with
And….always be a constant learner, challenging yourself to
overcome any barriers in that can hinder connecting
professionallY
WEEK 5 DECEMBER 3 2023
Navigating through life with imbalanced self esteem can be challenging at times, it can
impact a person’s daily life interactions and ability to live their life to the fullest. people
who deal with self esteem issues often have a distorted and negative views about
themselves. they focus on their failures and what they could have done better instead of
perceiving life in a balanced way. some people who deal with self esteem problems may
develop perfectionistic tendencies, as a way of compensating for their inadequacy. by
setting very high unrealistic short term goals they start dealing with anxiety and intense
negative self criticism.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy approach tasks that could be beneficial for people
suffering with low esteem issues(Kollar, 2011). it contains 20 solution driven tasks that
can help in tackling low esteem problems. It teaches the counselee that God has given
counselee the resources needed for change. and that both the client and the therapist
are on this journey of self discovery and divine discovery. Kollar’s exploration in Chapter
5 suggests contemplation on the profound implications of perceiving life through the lens
of divine intentionality, offering a world view that extends beyond the clients perception
of their own identity to embrace a deeper understanding of ourselves as part of a divine
and purposeful journey. this indeed would decrease the pressure a person with low self
esteem would encounter by making them acknowledge that its okay to make mistakes
and that no human is perfect and this journey is ever lasting. this sets hope for the client
and guides them to count on the Divine timing and widens their perception instead of
narrowing their self esteem down by over stressing about accomplishments and relating
them to self worth. Solution Focused therapy encourages a positive outcome and
focuses on qualities, strength and abilities.
“Respect and Diversity” in the “American Association of Christian Counselors”
highlights that Christian counselors are expected to respect the dignity and worth of all
individuals, regardless of how they personally view themselves. This includes
acknowledging all the unique challenges and strengths associated with various aspects
of a person’s identity, including self-esteem. A counselor can shed the light on the clients
strengths and guide them to a more balanced way of perceiving themselves by showing
them their value to society and how they are loved by God and Jesus.
Week 6 toolbox 12/11/2023
One of the main cognitive-behavioral therapy models is the ABC model, it provides a
constructive way to acknowledge and take action in regards to self-esteem issues.
Identifying triggering events or situation that lead to negative thoughts about oneself.
These thoughts can be brutal self criticism, failure, or a challenging circumstance.
Recognizing the specific event is important in understanding the chain of reactions that
follow.
A key step in the ABC model is exploring the beliefs that are attached to the activating
event. Negative self-esteem often roots from irrational or overly critical beliefs about
oneself. These beliefs may be imprinted through past experiences or influenced by
external factors. Exploring and challenging these beliefs help in reshaping them which is
a key step in building a healthier self-esteem.
Examining the emotional and behavioral consequences that result from the identified
beliefs which cause low self esteem. Low self-esteem results in experiencing negative
emotions such as sadness, anxiety, or frustration. Behavioral consequences may
include avoidance of certain situations or self-sabotaging actions. Recognizing
these patterns and consequences is vital for developing strategies to break such
cycles. In the context of self-esteem, applying the ABC model involves investigate
moments of low self-worth. By pinpointing triggering events, understanding associated
beliefs, and recognizing emotional and behavioral consequences, individuals can gain
valuable information into their thought patterns. This self awareness is a foundation for
switching the narrative and changing negative beliefs, eventually working on building a
healthier self-esteem. Incorporating positive affirmations that encourage balanced self
love and respect, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support from friends, family,
or a mental health professional can make the ABC model more effective.
Golden nuggets of what I have learnt :
– ABC model in cognitive-behavioral therapy addresses self-esteem issues
constructively.
– Activating Events: Identifying triggers like self-criticism or challenging circumstances.
– Beliefs: Exploration of irrational or overly critical beliefs rooted in past experiences or
external influences.
– Consequences: Examination of emotional and behavioral outcomes linked to identified
beliefs.
– Understanding the chain of reactions from triggering events to consequences is vital.
– Recognition of negative cycles informs strategies for breaking them and cultivating
healthier self-esteem.
– Positive affirmations, self-compassion, and seeking support enhance the effectiveness
of the ABC model.
– Overall goal: Develop self-awareness, transform narrative, and build positive selfesteem.
WEEK 7 TOOLBOX
Being empathetic and treating the clients with the outmost respect is crucial in
approaching the topic of marriage, when integrating faith based values one must
emphasize on the sanctity of marriage and the value of working together as a couple to
face challenges. As the clients are already married for 10 years they should be familiar
with the dynamic of working together. I know I have to be extremely gentle in bringing up
the topic of religion to the couple of undefined faith values, I would use Malachi 2:16,
“For I hate divorce, says the Lord,” to show the clients that working through challenges
and seeking alternatives is much more favorable in faith than directly jumping into
divorce. Although divorce nowadays is the easy way out of marriages I would highlight
the damage it might bring to both individuals and maybe their kids if they choose that
route without seeking alternatives.
However, it’s important to create an open and non-judgmental atmosphere of
conversation where the clients feel comfortable expressing their own feelings and
concerns freely with no judgment nor limitation. I would explore their reasons for seeking
divorce, acknowledge their emotions, and collaboratively discuss potential solutions.
This approach aligns with Christian principles of compassion and understanding.
Ultimately, my role is to guide and support the clients in making their own decisions,
even if it may differ from your personal views. Using scripture to inspire hope and
resilience in the face of marital challenges can be a successful way to bridge your faithbased perspective with the counseling process.
I believe working together as a couple to face challenges as you said is something that
needs to be considered when it comes to divorce. When it comes to divorce the children
are always the ones that it affects most and that is one thing the couple needs to
consider because at the end of everything and according to research children that are
from dysfunctional homes are the ones that mostly go into the streets and also God
doesn’t support it. Thank you for sharing stay blessed .
The fact that you used the word resilience in the face of marital challenges, through
scripture, to be successful, and a bridge to integrating faith, based perspectives, Is
organized perfectly on your end. Your discussion clearly demonstrates empathy and
fairness. Your scripture of choice, Malachi 2:16 was one of my options as well, because I
love the fact, that says working through challenges and seeking alternatives is much
more favorable than faith to the Lord. The Lord honors, a married couple, in the journey
of repairing their marriage, and denying divorce.
Bible scriptures aligns with positive psychology strategies, in my opinion, because just
like the word of God and positive psychology quite often it focuses on forgiveness
interventions, that ultimately individuals and especially troubled marriages could
specifically benefit from.

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