The purpose of this statement is to indicate criteria for assessing a counsellor's ability to perform adequately as a relationship counsellor. AARC Inc defines relationship counselling as counselling in which the focus is on the relationship between the clients. Ethical standards which govern relationships between counsellors of the Association and clients are established and reprinted on the application form and separately. Counsellors must adhere to these standards in addition to maintaining their professional growth and development.
1. A clinically competent counsellor is recognised by professional peers, appropriate authorities and satisfied clients. and demonstrates the ability to:
· Form and maintain a therapeutic relationship
· Produce results. i.e. be dependable in the assistance given and in helping clients find solutions to presenting problems.
· Give appropriate reasons for counselling behaviour.
2. Clinically competent counsellors can demonstrate creatively:
· Understanding of persons and their relationships.
· An explicit knowledge of theory.
· Use of personal characteristics such as intelligence, impartiality, flexibility, empathy, integrity, and openness to learning.
3. In the process of counselling the clinically competent counsellor will:
· Respect and facilitate a partnership between counsellor and clients.
· Comprehend the clients’ presenting problems.
· Incorporate the presenting problem and relationship difficulties within a therapeutic framework.
· Recognise the limits of his/her professional competence and refer clients when appropriate.
· Contract with the clients for particular and achievable goals.
· Formulate methods or strategies to reach these goals.
· Self disclose and challenge appropriately.
· Initiate, facilitate and monitor the process(es) required.
· Modify goals and process(es) as appropriate.
· Carry the process(es) through to conclusion.
· Give a critical account of his/her behaviour to others including actively seeking ongoing supervision.
4. A clinically competent counsellor will undertake ongoing professional development and supervision.
