I’ve spent some time visiting with psychologists and counselors. In general, I think we pay counselors for two things: to be a friend so we don’t feel lonely, and to be a listening ear. If you want to be a counselor, that’s really all you have know.
I know…what I just said is an oversimplification and an insult to all psychologists and counselors. It’s like telling a pastor he only works on Sunday. Psychologists and counselors have to do more than be a friend and a listening ear. They also have to give advice.
So if you want to counsel someone and never know what to say, here is some advice that fits nearly every situation:
