In Episode 181 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about the different stages in the counselling relationship. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then examines the process of making referrals in online (as opposed to face-to-face) counselling. Last, Rory interviews Maggi McAllister-MacGregor about a new lecture she has recently produced for Counsellor CPD on neuroscience and counselling.

Stages in the Counselling Relationship (starts at 1.30 mins)

Being aware of stages of the counselling relationship and the skills required at each of these is an important element of passing the advanced skills assessments that form part of all practitioner-level counselling training courses.

The counselling relationship can be seen as having three phases:

• beginning
• middle
• end

Ken and Rory talk through the challenges and rewards of each stage, and the skills that are particularly pertinent at each. If you’re not already a member of the Counselling Tutor Facebook group, why not come along and exchange views on this topic with other students, practitioners, tutors and supervisors in the world of counselling and psychotherapy?

While the field of counselling is an area for scientific research, so that we have an evidence base on which to base our practice, Rory notes that it is also very much an art.

He uses the analogy of the theatre to illustrate the three phases of the counselling relationship, from the characters’ first appearance on stage to their leaving at the final curtain. Of course, for some clients, there may be a sequel – either with the same counsellor or with another agency, through the referral process.

You can also download a free handout on the stages in counselling here or through Counselling Study Resource (CSR).