Exploration of Application Basic Counseling Skill in Family Counseling Session from Counselor Perspective Experience

Abstract

The more challenging family counseling process definitely requires more precise application of basic counseling skills. This article aims to discuss a study exploring the use of basic counseling skills or also known as helping skills in family counseling sessions conducted by counselors. The objective of the study was to explore the use of basic entertaining counseling skills among counselors in family counseling sessions. Qualitative study approach with case study design with 12 licensed counselors, experienced over 3 years and have conducted more than 500 hours conducting family counseling sessions from three government agencies offering family counseling services in Malaysia. Analysis of interview data in depth thematically and descriptively data. The results of the study have shown that eight basic skills of counseling that have been used by counselors, namely i. asking/questions, ii. validity, iii. ask for and give an explanation, iv. confrontation, v. focus, vii. paraphrase, viii. reflection of feelings and ix. eye contact. Factors of education, training and experience in conducted individual counseling have influenced the use of counseling skills among counselors in family counseling sessions.