HSV203 Introduction to Counseling Professions: Unit 3 DB: Political Opinions, POST University, May 2025

  

 HSV203 Introduction to Counseling Professions: Unit 3 DB: Political Opinions 

Imagine you are counseling a client who holds strong political beliefs that are opposite to your own. Describe how you would handle this situation, focusing on maintaining professionalism and ensuring the client's needs remain the priority. In your response, reflect on the following: 

What are the ethical considerations you must reflect on when managing your personal biases to ensure equitable treatment? 

 

I would not allow any personal belief I have for any reason, whether political or religious, to have any effect on any professional counseling I would have with any client. I would have all that firmly in place before ever choosing the profession as a career.  

 

What strategies would you use to manage your political countertransference? Consider self-awareness practices, supervision techniques, or continuing education opportunities. 

 

To separate personal feelings in a professional environment, focus on creating boundaries, developing emotional intelligence, and practicing mindfulness to manage your reactions and maintain a professional demeanor. This involves understanding and acknowledging your emotions while intentionally choosing to express them professionally, prioritizing your well-being, and setting limits on work-related interactions. 

 

1. Create Boundaries: 

Physical Boundaries: 

Establish dedicated workspaces and separate devices for personal and professional use. 

 

Time Boundaries: 

Set specific times for work and personal life and avoid checking work emails or notifications during off-hours.  

 

Emotional Boundaries: 

Learn to say no to requests that encroach on your time and energy and communicate your boundaries to others. 

 

 

 

2. Develop Emotional Intelligence: 

Self-Awareness: Understand your emotions and how they impact your behavior at work.  

 

Emotional Regulation: Learn techniques to manage your emotions, such as meditation, mindfulness, and breathing exercises.  

 

Empathy: Practice understanding and acknowledging the emotions of others, while maintaining professional distance. 

 

3. Practice Mindfulness: 

Mindfulness Techniques: 

Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine, such as meditation and deep breathing. 

 

Active Listening: 

Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment and respond thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively. 

 

Focus on the Present: 

Stay grounded in the present moment, avoiding dwelling on past events or worrying about future outcomes. 

 

4. Professional Communication: 

Express Emotions Appropriately: 

Choose your words carefully and deliver them professionally, especially when expressing disagreement or criticism.  

Apologize When Necessary: 

If you have an emotional outburst, take responsibility for your actions and offer sincere apologies.  

Seek Professional Guidance: 

If you are struggling to manage your emotions, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. 

 

What may happen if you do not address the political countertransference? 

 

You run the risk of alienating your clients, and that could mean that you build a reputation of not being open to other people’s feelings and choices. Inability to separate personal feelings from the professional environment can lead to negative consequences, including decreased job satisfaction, reduced productivity, and strained professional relationships. It can also contribute to a toxic work environment characterized by conflict and stress.