What guides me
We all have values and beliefs that inform our judgments about what is right and wrong and what is most important to us in life. Values and beliefs inform our decisions and guide our behavior.
The Client-Counsellor Relationship
Research has consistently shown that the quality of the counselling relationship, the working alliance between the client and the counsellor, is the single greatest factor for success in the counselling process. My goal as a counsellor is to provide an active, caring, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship; one which helps clients to further discover themselves, clarify their values, and determine their choices while not imposing my own values or beliefs. However, the counselling process is generally considered not fully values-neutral. Thus, for professional integrity it is important to me that my clients know what guides me in my life.
Human Dignity
I believe in the inherent value of all human beings and that each person, at every stage of life, is created in the Image of God, the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe in which we live, revealed to humankind in the person of Jesus Christ. This, I believe, is the basis for universal human rights.
Furthermore, I recognize a client's freedom as an autonomous individual to make self-determined decisions according to his or her values and beliefs, the essence of having a free will.
Christian Worldview
I recognize the Bible as the foundation of the Christian faith. If a client requests Christian counselling, I thoughtfully integrate psychological research and counselling approaches in light of this foundation.
Relationships
I believe we are created for relationships. First, for a personal relationship with God, through Jesus Christ. In Him we can know ultimate forgiveness, grace, love and acceptance. Second, we are created for relationships with other people. Secure, loving, and supportive connections can be the key to facilitating healing and growth.
I seek to pursue honesty and authenticity in my own life both personally and professionally as I support clients on their journey within the counselling relationship.
Professionalism
I follow the ethical and professional standards of the Swiss Association for Counselling and the Georgia Board of Professional Counselors through ongoing continuing education and supervision. I maintain my license as a Professional Counselor in the United States.
Swiss Association for Counselling: Ethics Basics
