Which characteristic is common among level one counselors?

Level one counselors are typically at the beginning stages of their professional development and may struggle with certain facets of the counseling process that more experienced counselors handle with greater ease. A common characteristic is that they tend to think categorically, which means they often approach situations in a black-and-white manner, lacking the nuance that comes with experience. This mindset can hinder their ability to fully understand complex client situations or consider multiple perspectives.

Furthermore, level one counselors may also struggle with self-disclosure, which refers to the extent to which a counselor shares personal experiences or feelings with clients. This difficulty often stems from inexperience and a lack of confidence in their role, leading them to be more hesitant in allowing clients to see their human side. As they progress in their careers and gain more knowledge and skill, they typically become more comfortable with nuanced thinking and appropriate self-disclosure, facilitating more effective client relationships.

This understanding of level one counselors emphasizes their developmental stage and the common challenges they face, highlighting the importance of ongoing training, supervision, and experience in the growth of effective counseling practices.