I remember the first time someone told me about their problems and I was expected to ask proper questions. It was in a small office in Ang Mo Kio and this woman kindly allowed university social worker students ask her repeatedly about her difficulties and situation. I was equipped with, possibly not a full session plan but a list of questions.
During my placement and today, session plans help me stay focused in the complex myriad of situations and brings clarity to those who sit in the counselling rooms with me.
A good session plan is like a road map in which you are somewhat planned for the variety of paths those who consult with you may take. That is not to say we know and dictate the paths, but we are clear about the general focus of the objective of the session and ultimately how it fits into our contracted goals. It helps everyone to stay on track.
But of course there are days in which good session plans have to be set aside. But that’s another tool you use when being a discipline improviser. When you find yourself having internalised all your session plans and have more experience in knowing which questions could be more suitable, you have a repertoire that can be tapped on.
A session plan also helps me when the day has been stormy and crafting questions beforehand makes asking them a breeze as you are able to listen carefully to what the other person is saying. People deserve your whole presence in the sessions.
Contact me to start individual session about crafting a road map to bring in more influence into your sessions.