TPC-Journal-V5-Issue1

The Professional Counselor /Volume 5, Issue 1 122 Utilizing the formula and umbrella graphics to gain an understanding of the application of basic skills is a valuable tool on the clinician’s lifelong learning journey to become a more effective counselor. When clinicians are “stuck” with a client, what better tools are within our grasp than to return to basic skills and use the formula? Basic skills are an integral part of the clinician’s toolbox, regardless of theoretical orientation or therapeutic interventions. These tools open clients’ awareness (A), promote insight (I), and unlock a myriad of options for clients to embrace (Chg) change (Asimakopoulou et al., 2012; Jacobs, 1994; Jacobs et al., 2012; Meier & Davis, 2011). Conflict of Interest and Funding Disclosure The authors reported no conflict of interest or funding contributions for the development of this manuscript. References Ackerman, A. J., & Hilsenroth, M. J. (2001). A review of therapist characteristics and techniques negatively impacting the therapeutic alliance. Psychotherapy , 38 , 171–185. doi:10.1037/0033-3204.38.2.171 Akinsanya, C., & Williams, M. (2004). Concept mapping for meaningful learning. Nurse Education Today ,  24 , 41–46. doi:10.1016/S0260-6917(03)00120-5 Asimakopoulou, K., Gilbert, D., Newton, P., & Scrambler, S. (2012). Back to basics: Re-examining the role of patient empowerment in diabetes. Patient Education and Counseling , 86 , 281–283. doi:10.1016/j.pec.2011.03.017 Chang, V. N., Scott, S. T., & Decker, C. L. (2009). Developing helping skills: A step-by-step approach. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole. Cormier, S., & Hackney, H. (2012). Counseling strategies and interventions (8th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education. Dansereau, D. F., & Dees, S. M. (2002). Mapping training: The transfer of a cognitive technology for improving counseling. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment , 22 , 219–230. doi:10.1016/S0740-5472(02)00235-0 Evans, D. R., Hearn, M. T., Uhlemann, M. R., & Ivey, A. E. (2011). Essential interviewing: A programmed approach to effective communication (8th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole. Flaskas, C. (2004). Thinking about the therapeutic relationship: Emerging themes in family therapy. The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy , 25 , 13–20. doi:10.1002/j.1467-8438.2004.tb00574.x Henriksen, R. C., Jr., & Trusty, J. (2005). Ethics and values as major factors related to multicultural aspects of counselor preparation. Counseling & Values , 49 , 180–192. doi:10.1002/j.2161-007X.2005.tb01021.x Hill, L. H. (2005). Concept mapping to encourage meaningful student learning. Adult Learning , 16 (3/4), 7–13. Jacobs, E. (1994). Impact therapy. Odessa, FL: Psychological Assessment Resources. Jacobs, E. E., Masson, R. L, Harvill, R. L., & Schimmel, C. J. (2012). Group counseling: Strategies and skills (7th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole. Kostovich, C. T., Poradzisz, M., Wood, K., & O’Brien, K. L. (2007). Learning style preference and student aptitude for concept maps. Journal of Nursing Education , 46 , 225–231. MacCluskie, K. (2010). Acquiring counseling skills: Integrating theory, multiculturalism, and self-awareness. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson/Merrill. McAuliffe, G., & Eriksen, K. (2002). Teaching strategies for constructivist and developmental counselor education. Westport, CT: Bergin & Garvey. McClam, T., & Woodside, M. (2010). Initial interviewing: What students want to know . Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole. Meier, S. T., & Davis, S. R. (2011). The elements of counseling (7th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole. Moursund, J., & Kenny, M. C. (2002). The process of counseling and therapy (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. Novak, J. D., & Gowin, D. B. (1984). Learning how to learn . New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.