Today in the field of counseling, professionals not only are well-versed in the various theories of human relations but also in the newer concerns of multi-cultural sensitivity. It is the purpose of this essay to explore the work of Okun's book, Intermediate Interviewing Techniques, incorporating the ideas of other researchers working in the fields of interviewing and counseling.
Okun, of Northeastern University, offers practical help for the developing empathetic helper, providing techniques for self-assessment, perceiving non-verbal messages, and behavioral strategies. A counselor cannot hope to help others without a certain degree of self-awareness, and Okun's work provides a framework for that self-examination. One has to understand contemporary social forces in order to appreciate what happens in an effective helping situation. Theory is important, too, as well as skill in developing genuine compassion. Her work with theories provides a mental framework for understanding what to do with the counseling client, and she touches on some of the new theories of constructivism, feminist therapies, and integrative therapies. Okun believes on focusing on solutions in the counselor-client relationship.
Historically, one of the core issues in counseling theory is the dichotomy of free will versus determinism. Depending on how one is based philosophically, professionals in the field generally will have a certain placement on the continuum that feels comfortable and right for their work. Wilks notes that the freewill issue continues to be an important area of investigation
and an important component in theory development. Wilks goes on to say that despite many investigations into freewill and determinism within counseling, the idea of individual freedom or lack of freedom is still an unsolved element in the professional field of counseling.
The traditional definition of determinism is the view that the will is not fre...