How to Answer: What do you believe makes you an excellent Mental Health Counselor?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Mental Health Counselor job interview.
8. What do you believe makes you an excellent Mental Health Counselor?
How to Answer
When you answer this question, it's important to highlight something unique and memorable about yourself as a counselor. Set yourself apart from the rest of the candidates and help the interviewer to remember you when it comes time to make a hiring selection.
Reflecting on your strengths, think of a few primary qualities that demonstrate your skills as a Mental Health Counselor. Think about how these skills help you do your job. This question is a significant opportunity to sell yourself.
Written by Ryan Brown on August 11th, 2014
Entry Level Example
"I am confident and ready to make the most of my education and internship experiences. I desire to continually develop a broader counseling perspective, which will help in my client interactions. I can view situations from many different perspectives--whether it be the perspective of my clients, their friends, family, or their partners. I am ready to help my clients to navigate their relationships and understand the influences involved. In addition to these factors, my patience, ability to listen, and be attentive to the smallest details are all qualities that will make me a great Mental Health Counselor."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 15th, 2020
Answer Example
"I am astute in knowing what my clients are thinking and feeling. I pay attention to their body language as they explore and frame their life experiences for me. I notice when they need space to think and process, and when it's the right time to challenge something they believe. I also know when to step back and allow my client to conclude something for themselves. I use verbal and nonverbal methods to build trust with my clients. I create a place where they feel safe, and they know that I am there for them. My clients often mention that they appreciate how I am a contributing member to their progress without being overbearing. I let my clients know that it's a privilege to be a part of their support team. I closely follow a treatment plan that the client and I develop early on, and I am transparent with my clients about their mental health plan and when we should pivot or try a new approach. Another factor that makes me an excellent Mental Health Counselor is that I clearly express the 'why' behind my treatment approaches. When the client understands the purpose of the path, they are often far more successful."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 11th, 2014
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Stephanie's Feedback