"Yes, I have had clients who have failed to progress, and it's always a difficult reality to face. (Situation) In one case, there was a missing trust factor between myself and the clients. (Task) As a responsible Mental Health Counselor, I want to see my clients succeed; however, I may not always be the right counselor for the job. The connection was not there, and, after three sessions, I had to be transparent with the client. (Action) I told her that I felt another therapist in our office would be a better fit for her. I explained that this individual was more versed in psychodynamic therapy, where they had a heavier focus on how the clients' past experiences impacted their current problems. This counselor would take more of an expert role and less of a client-driven approach. Since this client has already gone through a few therapists, I felt that this therapy method would be more helpful. (Result) In the end, I was thankful to be right. Although I was not privy to the details of their sessions, I would see the client come in for her appointments now and then, and she seemed to be happier and more lighthearted."

"While earning my degree as a Mental Health Counselor, we were taught that there might be times when the synergy is not good with a client. I learned that it is important to take note of these circumstances and be transparent with a client when progress is lacking. If I notice that a client is not progressing, I will take time to reassess their treatment plan, and the therapy modalities I use. I will also entertain the idea that I may not be the right counselor for them. I will ask the client various discovery questions to see if we need to set different goals. From there, I would work together with the client to identify the best way for them to reach those goals."