Reference no: EM13477565

How does Maslow's hierarchy of needs relate to effective counseling?

As stated in the text, "effective counseling results in better relationships, improved coping skills, and personal growth" (Parrot, pg. 9, 2003). Maslow enforced the importance on how an individual perceives the values and their perspective on life. He enforced the significance of maintaining a positive outlook on life to uphold a positive outcome in counseling others, as well as upholding a positive personal relationship (Parrot, 2003). It has been proven and is apparent that effective counselors are more successful at helping or guiding others if they are happy with themselves and maintain a positive view on life. it is important that counselors at least be aware of the qualities they need to posses in order to be a positive role model for others. If one cannot fully be optimistic in their existence, he or she should at least try to guide others to think on a more positive thinking perspective. Furthermore, being genuine is a vital characteristic in effective counseling (Parrot, pg. 27, 2003). A client is more likely to "open up" to someone that they feel is truly genuine-someone who can relate to the situation, or can give the heartfelt attitude when counseling. However, I must say...i go back to the old saying, "practice what you preach." Maslow believed in committing yourself to positiveness so that you would be able to speak from experience. Also, Maslow speaks on self-knowledge or self-knowledge and how "Socrates proclaimed that self-knowledge allowed counselors to identify personal limits and become more objective" (Parrot, pg. 31, 2003). I see effective counselors as being patient with their clients. I know in my job, working with children, I tolerate a lot of chaos, I am very patient most of the time and depend on that patience to guide the children to positive play.

Reference

Parrott lll, L. (2003) Counseling and psychotherapy (2nd ed.). Pacific Grove, CA: Thomson/Brooks /Cole.