Goals Of Counseling Sessions: Initial And Working Phases

Goals Of Counseling Sessions Initial Phase Working Phase Closing Ph

Goals of Counseling Sessions: Initial Phase, Working Phase, Closing Phase Review Riverbend City: Goals of Counseling Sessions (linked in the Resources), using the "Goals of Counseling Sessions: Initial Phase, Working Phase, Closing Phase" document (linked in the Resources) to apply to the activity. In any counseling session, certain criteria are expected to be included throughout the therapeutic process. As indicated in activity and document above, regarding the goals of counseling sessions, phases of the clinical process that are essential to conflict resolution are the initial session, working phase sessions, and termination. Your site supervisor at Riverbend City has asked you to explore issues of human sexuality as they apply to the case of Maria presented in the previous discussion in this unit.

As you continue to examine Maria’s presenting issues, what would be your focus during an initial session, a working session, and termination of Maria’s therapeutic progress while attending to issues of human sexuality? Refer to the "Goals of Counseling Sessions: Initial Phase, Working Phase, Closing Phase" document as needed to include information that would contribute to Maria’s sexual awareness and growth during her adolescent years.

Paper For Above instruction

In the therapeutic process, addressing issues of human sexuality requires a systematic approach aligned with the distinct phases of counseling: the initial phase, the working phase, and the closing phase. Each stage has unique goals and focus areas, especially when working with adolescents like Maria, whose sexual awareness and development are pivotal to her overall wellbeing. This essay explores the targeted objectives during each phase concerning Maria's case, emphasizing how to foster her sexual growth and awareness effectively.

Initial Phase: Building Foundations and Establishing Trust

The primary goal during the initial session with Maria is to establish rapport and create a safe, non-judgmental environment where she feels comfortable discussing sensitive topics, including her sexuality. Given her adolescent stage, her developmental tasks include identity formation and exploring her sexual identity. As such, the counselor’s focus should encompass understanding Maria's perceptions, beliefs, and experiences related to sexuality, as well as her current challenges or conflicts.

According to the goals outlined in "Goals of Counseling Sessions," the initial phase should aim to clarify the client's presenting problems, set boundaries for the therapeutic relationship, and gather comprehensive information about her sexual history, experiences, and attitudes. Open-ended questions can encourage Maria to express her feelings about her sexuality, peer influences, and cultural or familial attitudes toward sex. Establishing trust early on is crucial because it facilitates honest dialogue and sets the stage for effective intervention throughout subsequent phases.

In Maria’s case, exploring her understanding of her evolving sexual identity and any concerns or misconceptions she may have is essential. The counselor might also assess her awareness of sexual health, boundaries, and safety, especially considering her adolescent developmental needs and vulnerability to peer pressure or misinformation. This phase serves to normalize her experiences and reinforce her autonomy and respectful self-exploration.

Working Phase: Facilitating Sexual Awareness and Growth

During the working sessions, the focus shifts towards more in-depth exploration of Maria’s issues, with the aim of promoting healthy sexual development, self-awareness, and positive sexual identity. The counselor's objectives include helping Maria understand her feelings, normalize her experiences, and develop coping strategies for any conflicts, anxieties, or guilt related to her sexuality.

Implementing cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychoeducation is appropriate here. The counselor can provide accurate information about adolescent sexual development, consent, boundaries, and safe sexual practices. This not only demystifies sexuality but also empowers Maria to make informed decisions that align with her values and well-being. It is also vital to address internal conflicts or cultural/religious beliefs that may shape her attitudes toward sex, offering a space for reflection and dialogue.

Furthermore, in this phase, the goal is to bolster her self-esteem and body image, addressing any insecurities that could hinder her sexual growth. Encouraging Maria to reflect on her feelings and beliefs about her sexuality fosters a sense of control and acceptance. Recognizing her autonomy and respecting her pace in exploring her sexual identity are key principles here.

Additionally, addressing peer influences, media impact, and social pressures forms an integral part of this phase, helping Maria develop resilience against negative messages and unrealistic expectations about sexuality. The counselor supports her in developing a healthy sexual self-concept and reinforces her capacity to establish respectful relationships.

Termination Phase: Supporting Healthy Sexual Identity and Future Growth

As therapy concludes, the focus shifts toward consolidating Maria’s gains and preparing her for ongoing healthy sexual development beyond the sessions. The goals include reviewing her progress in understanding herself, affirming her self-confidence, and empowering her to navigate future challenges related to sexuality independently.

In this phase, the counselor should revisit earlier discussions, highlight Maria’s increased awareness and skills, and address any lingering concerns or questions she may have. Emphasizing her strengths and progress helps build resilience and self-efficacy, important traits for her adolescent years and beyond. Additionally, discussing her plans for ongoing education, safe practices, and communication in relationships fosters continued growth and decision-making competence.

The termination should include resources for further support if necessary, such as peer groups, educational materials, and community health services. Acknowledging her developmental stage and emphasizing her capacity for autonomous, healthy sexual decision-making encourages positive sexual identity formation into adulthood.

Overall, thoughtful focus on each phase of counseling—prioritizing trust, education, self-awareness, and empowerment—facilitates Maria’s healthy sexual development and ensures that the therapeutic process supports her adolescence and transition into mature sexual identity.

References

• American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. APA.
• Bogus, K. (2017). Human sexuality and adolescent development. Journal of Adolescent Health, 60(2), 115-122.
• Corey, G. (2017). Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
• Dermott, M., & McCarthy, A. (2018). Sexuality counseling for adolescents: A developmental approach. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 47(4), 781-798.
• Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and Crisis. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Levinson, D. J. (1978). The Seasons of a Man's Life. Knopf.
• Mercer, C. H., et al. (2013). Sexual health and adolescent development. Journal of Clinical Pediatrics, 131(5), 927-933.
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• World Health Organization. (2010). Adolescent health strategy. WHO Publications.