What is Bad Temperament Counseling?
Bad temperament counseling is a branch of bad counseling. It should be easy to identify bad temperament counseling from good counseling but it isn’t. The problem is smooth words can interfere with our ability to discern good information from bad information.
How many charlatans have there been? Over the years many have taken advantage of many more by manipulating the need for good counsel of those who had that need.
Are the following on your list?
- tea leaves
- phrenologists
- astrologers
- tarot readers
- bone throwers
Not even those who are supposedly credentialed providers are above pressing their influence over those in need. What about the famous Dr. Lichtman who bilked insurance companies out of over $3 million in 1996?
There are a few signs to be alert for when consulting a temperament (or any other) counselor.
- promises to find an absolute solution
- treatment plans that last for years rather than weeks
- counselors who begin session without an analysis
- counselors who offer you solutions to some one elses behaviors
What are the signs of a “Good” Temperament counselor?
- Someone who takes a full case history beforebegining counseling
- Someone who conducts a temperament analysis before begining counseling.
- Someone who talks in terms of meeting the following needs in a appropriate manner
- Affection
- Control
- Inclusion
- Someone who speaks to you about help in 10 sessions or less rather than in years of therapy.
- Someone who has a strong faith basis for their practice.
Keep in mind the field of counseling is no more immune to bad apples than those of law, or medicine.