Picking the perfect counsellor

NEED to talk to a professional but not sure how to about it? Here are some tips.

In Malaysia, the word “counsellor” is defined legally as a person licensed by the Lembaga Kounselor, a government organisation.

Counsellors have a range of qualifications, with some specialising in school student counselling and others in adult counselling.

As such, visit http://www.kpwkm.gov.my and go to Advanced Search to filter through candidates.

The second is to make sure you have some who are experienced in the subject you wish to discuss: stress, marital issues, abuse, relationship issues and so on.

In theory, counsellors should be accepting and support the client, however, counsellors are human and not everyone is comfortable with all issues.

For example, suppose you want to divorce and need counselling through this difficult period. There are counsellors who will support you unquestioningly but there are also those whose personal views are that marriage is for life. They may find it difficult to be objective or to offer the support you ask for. Sometimes, you can avoid a mismatch by calling first. Just explain very briefly what you are looking for, and see if your outlooks are compatible.

For example, “I need support through my divorce. I need someone who is on my side. Are you able to offer this or do you have strong views on divorce?”

If you don’t like the answer, ask the next person on your list. Alternatively, ask the person who’s not a good match, “Can you recommend someone?”

Note: when asking the question, you may end up with someone who says he is all right with your issue but you will notice very quickly he is not.

If so, feel free to terminate the session and try not to worry: there is someone out there who will be an excellent match, it just takes a little research.