How do you explain career counseling theories to clients?

As a career counselor, we always have to offer a supportive space to help client. Navigate the complex work into simple and enable clients to find their own solutions to a variety of job challenges. The job of a career counselor is to train the clients in a professional manner by exploring the subject in a very simple language. We have to convey the client in a convenient language that the client can understand, and then we have to give an option to execute career related decisions.

Clients don't speak "theoretical frameworks." It is much more important to describe things clearly and practically to your clients than to explain the theory behind your advice.

I often try to associate theoretical perspectives with pop culture references, when applicable. At times, I find that younger clients feel more comfortable when I am able to do this, as they realize that I am a "regular person" just like they are! For instance, I have referenced popular Netflix characters and their job searches as examples, and been able to bond with my clients over a shared interest in that show after the fact as a result.

Theories are important in core counselling skills. We have to connect and link these theories to clients on some activities such as active listening and empathy. For instance, Carl Rogers person centred theory, this theory emphasises empathy and unconditional positive regard, by which the counselor directs towards creating a supportive environment to the client. Like this, different theories indicate different counselling skills in unique ways.

I work for my clients and they are the experts of themselves. Therefore, it is my duty and obligation to spend more time listening, empathizing and understanding while talking very little. Furthermore, engaging with my clients from the perspective of them being the driver while I am the passenger empowers them. This approach makes it easy to ask my clients questions to strengthen the working relationship. Common questions I ask are: how are things going so far ? (week 3-4), was I able to meet your needs today? and what can I do better to serve you ? When you establish trust you create a valuable relationship with no fear, worry or insecurities. You can work toward the clients goals with confidence and assurance. Trust the process.

I believe that many clients looking for a job are looking at securing a job that fits them well and allows them to have a challenge. I don't believe clients need to understand each of the theories that you are using because you could be using a number of theories to ensure the best service possible, depending on the clients needs. Therefore I would not share what theory I'm using. I would focus on the client and how I'm going to help them move towards employment.

Career counselling can never be a same concept for each individual as it would vary from client to client. Some are looking for education related counselling and some are focusing on jobs and sone would be looking for information about both connected to each other on a long term.

Developing my own career counselling approach is based on a few things. Number one, it is based on understanding the client’s needs. Number two, customizing a strategy in order to test out to determine what works and what doesn’t work to meet their goals. Lastly, it is about building a trusting rapport that allows us to make progress and grow together.