Page 44 - PartA

Counselling Skills

Ending with a positive impact

In contrast to the negative effects referred to above, helping relationships also have
positive impacts. A helping relationship is very seldom totally negative, although in
some cases it may be only on reflection that the parties see positive outcomes.

When the process of termination is itself a positive one, both parties can move
forwards with confidence, new insights, a sense of achievement and a more positive
attitude to resolving problems and to life generally.

A Activity 12: Positive endings to relationships

Consider a relationship that you know about or have heard about
from someone else that ended negatively. It can be a personal
relationship or a helping relationship. Make a note of strategies that
you think could have helped to end it in a more positive way – for
example, using mediation in a divorce settlement.

Key Fact

Ending a helping relationship can have an impact on both the client
and the helper.

Remember to note down any thoughts that you have about the material that you have
covered – and about the following units, in your assessment booklet.

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