LE3 .A278 2003

2003

Lehr, Ron

Acadia University

Master of Education

Masters

Counselling

Education

This study utilized a qualitative paradigm to explore the experiences of a counsellor. The methodology was narrative. The study, conducted over a period of three years, was subjective in nature and utilized meditation, interviewing, and journaling to gather stories. The purpose of this narrative inquiry was to inquire into the development of self by weaving through the richness of family stories, gathered myths and secrets, facing developed patterns and obstacles, in an attempt to present oneself more fully during the exchange that takes place between counsellor and client. 'Exchange' refers to our direct experience of another person's state of being. That feeling upon being in the presence of others in psychotherapy as though having 'caught' or taken on their feelings or their mood. It is treated as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the client, to recognize our connection with others, and to go beyond our own obstacles to entering into a genuine relationship. A framework for understanding and enhancing the exchange between counsellor and client is presented based on the relationship between the process, themes and a newly acquired perspective of the self as generated by the research.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2812