Self-characterisation

I felt really comfortable doing what we did in class today with self-characterisation. It got us all talking to each other in a meaningful way. What was really good about it was the fact that what we had written gave us the topics to talk about-there were no set questions, and everybody's conversation was different to the next person's. Writing about yourself in the third person gives a sense of freedom, I think it takes the pressure off you in some way. I was surprised to find that when I was thinking about jobs, I included tour guide-something that I've always liked the idea of, but have never done. It made me think that perhaps I still had an inclination to do it, that I hadn't completely ruled out the idea. The exercise made me realise that it would be a very useful tool to use with people needing guidance, especially for those who find it difficult to talk about themselves, or about their feelings in a face to face situation. It could be prepared beforehand. I have not used the word 'client' here as I think I'm going off the word in relation to those needing advice and guidance and help in general. I think it implies a certain detachment, and a distance between the counsellor and the other person. In the article we read by Jussi Onnismaa, he talks at one point about the relationship between 'the counsellor and help-seeker'-I like that. Just as the word 'challenging' implies confrontation, 'client' seems to be a bit clinical. Anyway, I really just wanted to say that I would certainly like to try the self-characterisation myself in the future.