Connection is the essence of counselling. This happens when the client feels that the counsellor genuinely cares about his/her well-being. Here the client finds respect & empathy. A safe environment is created here where clients feel comfortable to open up.

Agreeing on the problem statement & the Desired Outcome (DO): We gather information here in order to figure out what’s “really” going on so that we can derive the problem statement. We assess what needs to happen next in order to change the situation for the better or build up the client’s coping skills to better deal with this problem. What is desired? Is it a behavior change? Situation changes?

Find root cause of the problem : Identifying the root cause is a major step so that a permanent solution can be provided. Root cause will be identified through various CBT tools.

Derive solutions using various CBT tools. Mutually Agreed Upon Goals and implementation plan : SMART goals will be agreed to meet the Desired Outcome. Various researches have established the fact that only when the client is in agreement with the goals & plan, will he/she take ownership, and follow through on them.

The implementation plan will be designed to prevent, intervene, or address unhealthy behavior and practices. The implementation plan identifies who will perform the activities, where the activities will occur, how frequently they will occur, how they will be carried out and when they will be carried out. Agree the number of sessions needed. Follow the plan patiently.