Professional Development|Course hero helper

Posted: February 9th, 2023

Professional Development

Professional Development

Your textbook discusses multiple stages of development, starting with formal educational training, then continuing education, and on through practices of supervision and consultation. The stages of development could be compared to those of an apprentice, journeyman, and a master of a trade.

In your initial post to this discussion, identify at least two practices an ethically focused practitioner would engage in for each of these stages of practice. What are some potential challenges a practitioner might encounter at each stage of his or her professional journey? Cite sources from at least one of the professional codes of ethics and from the course text to support your post.

NOTE: Minimum of 350 words and 1 scholarly journal

CHAPTER 11

Efficacy of Treatment

Michelle: Hi, Lynn. Do you have a minute?

Lynn: Sure, Michelle. What’s up?

Michelle: I’ve been working with this girl, Maria, and we have a real good working relationship, but I just don’t feel like I have a true grasp of what is going on or that I am approaching this situation the best way. I explained this to Maria, and she has given me written permission to speak with you about the case. I know you are really busy, but I was hoping that you could provide some supervision around this case to see if you feel like I’m on the right track and using the best approach.

W hile our counselor, Ms. Wicks (Michelle), is certainly skilled and trained professionally, her real interest and concern for her client and her own self-awareness of the limits of her expertise have

led her to seek consultation from a colleague. Approaching helping with the essential training and experience is an ethical must. However, beyond this initial training, ongoing professional development, consultation, and supervi- sion are the hallmark of the ethical professional.

The ethical responsibility to be competent extends beyond the basic credentialing of a helper and includes the helper’s ability to employ treat- ment strategies that are efficacious. It is these issues of treatment efficacy and helper competency that serve as the focus for the current chapter.

SOLUTION

Lynn: Of course, Michelle. I’d be happy to provide some supervision for this case. Let’s start by discussing your approach to the situation and what you’ve been doing so far.

Michelle: Well, I’ve been using a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) approach with Maria. I’ve been working with her to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and to develop more effective coping strategies. We’ve also been working on setting achievable goals for her to work towards.

Lynn: That sounds like a good approach. What specific techniques have you been using to help Maria challenge her negative thought patterns?

Michelle: I’ve been using techniques like questioning the evidence for her negative thoughts, examining the pros and cons of each thought, and looking for alternative, more balanced perspectives.

Lynn: Those are all great techniques. I think you’re doing a good job with the CBT approach. Have you considered incorporating any other techniques or approaches into your work with Maria?

Michelle: I was thinking about incorporating some mindfulness-based techniques to help her regulate her emotions. I’ve also been thinking about incorporating some family therapy techniques, as she has mentioned that her relationship with her family is a source of stress for her.

Lynn: Those are both great ideas. I think incorporating mindfulness-based techniques could be particularly helpful in this situation. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for regulating emotions and managing stress. As for incorporating family therapy, it can be very helpful in addressing family dynamics that may be impacting Maria’s well-being.

Michelle: That’s great, Lynn. I really appreciate your guidance.

Lynn: You’re welcome, Michelle. Just remember that it’s important to continue to engage in professional development throughout your career. Seek out supervision, continue your education, and consult with colleagues to ensure that you are providing the best possible care for your clients.