Egan's Skilled Helper Model outlines a three-stage process for counseling: exploration, new understanding, and action. The exploration stage focuses on helping clients understand their current situation and identify their key issues. The new understanding stage involves helping clients envision a better future and explore possibilities for change. The action stage focuses on developing and executing plans to achieve those goals.
Detailed Breakdown of the Stages:
- 1. Exploration (Current Situation):
In this initial stage, the counselor helps the client explore their current situation, identify their problems, and understand the context of their issues. This involves active listening, asking open-ended questions, and helping the client articulate their thoughts and feelings.
- 2. New Understanding (Preferred Scenario):
The second stage shifts the focus to the client's desired future. Here, the counselor helps the client envision a better future, explore possibilities for change, and set realistic and meaningful goals. This stage involves helping the client identify their values, explore their strengths, and develop a sense of agency.
- 3. Action (Strategy Implementation):
The final stage involves translating the new understanding into action. The counselor helps the client develop a plan of action, set realistic goals, identify potential challenges, and develop strategies to overcome those challenges. This stage may involve problem-solving, decision-making, and developing skills to achieve their goals.
The Skilled Helper Model emphasizes the importance of a strong counselor-client relationship, active listening, empathy, and empowering clients to take ownership of their own change.