Discussion: Engagement and Counseling Skills in a First Session

M2 Discussion: Engagement and Counseling Skills in a First Session
Student’s Name
Institution’s Name

M2 Discussion: Engagement and Counseling Skills in a First Session
Dr. Oaklander created an environment where Blake could act himself; it is typical for children to get nervous near older people. Dr. Oaklandder strives to make Blake feel he is with his age mate, or somewhat his equal, and it is through this that he can open up to talk (Cook-Cottone, 2014). In trying to create a friendly environment, Dr. Oklander uses clay to appeal to the attention of Blake. Having had several encounters with children, Dr. Oaklander creatively uses the mud to get Blake talking. Dr. Okalander appealed to the earlier years of Blake when he used to play with clay; and through that, they connected (Psychotherapy.net., 2012).
Dr. Oklander bases her relationship on equals coming together. However, this seems like taking advantage of a young kid by a grownup, but, it is the only way children can tell what is happening in their lives (Havighurst & Downey, 2009). To achieve a state of equality between the child and the therapist, Dr. Oklander plays with clay just to appeal to the youthful client, Blake (Psychotherapy.net., 2012). On another level, Dr. Oklander strives to present an opportunity where the client connects with himself in the past. Also, that happens through the introduction of clay in the session. Dr. Okalander employs creative and projective ways to get Blake talking. Th…