RECOMMENDATION LETTER
It is with great honor that I draft this letter for my student. Through the academic years spent with him, he has excelled in his endeavors. There are several reasons why he is best suited for the position in the community health center; this analysis highlights his relevant skills, experiences and knowledge in the field of counseling psychology.
I have known and interacted with the applicant throughout his college years; from freshman to completion. It created many opportunities to interact academically during lectures, projects, practical assignments and other tasks. Throughout the time, his interest in the field of psychology, particularly counseling, developed. The interest played a significant role in his performance; the student scored consistent high grades in the assignments and examinations. Regular consultations with department lecturers and professors improved his performance in weak areas. He also aided his colleagues in their studies.
The applicant is best suited for the position at the community health center due to his theoretical approach in counseling; his selection, and efficient application of the approach will prove relevant. He has an integrative approach to counseling and psychotherapy; this involves the combination of two or more theories. For instance, a focus on eclectic therapy enables him to select relevant counseling techniques on the basis of their efficiency, and not theoretical basis. Integrated therapy enables him to analyze why and how changes in the client occur; thus analyze the efficacy of the chosen counseling technique. Through several practice assignments, he displayed good integration and application of theories at the practical levels; this will be relevant in handling diverse cases at the health center.
Through many practice clients, he explored a wide range of therapeutic techniques. He majorly excelled in the use of person-centered therapy (Grant, 2013). In one scenario, he proved successful in helping a client deal with suicidal thoughts. Through nurturing and building of a healthy relationship with the client, he revived the client’s innate desire for self-actualization; the client resolved the issues creating suicidal thoughts. It made evident the applicant’s ability to use his characteristics, quality therapeutic relationship and knowledge in guiding the client towards solutions.
The applicant exhibited openness and a willingness to learn during supervision and assessments. He paid attention to lecturers’ views and improved on weak areas. The creation of emotional boundaries was a challenge during practical assessments. Through guidance, he established boundaries and reduced the effects of clients’ problems on his emotional wellbeing.
He also has skills and knowledge in handling ethical dilemmas; it helps in making right decisions in the best interest of the client. In one circumstance, a practice client developed sexual interests in the counselor. The applicant applied the decision-making model by; identifying the problem, related issues, counseling laws and regulations, consultation of sources, brainstorming and a consideration of the decisions’ consequences. After futile attempts to keep the relationship professional, he and the client agreed on the re-assignment of the client to another counselor.
The applicant’s major strengths lie in his willingness to learn, personality traits, genuine concern for others’ wellbeing, and passion for counseling as a profession. It provides the drive and motivation necessary in avoiding burn-out at the workplace. He has personal and interpersonal abilities; this facilitates functioning across a lifespan. He can handle concerns related to social, emotional, educational, vocational, health-related, organizational, and developmental needs (Grant, 2013). He is best suited for the position at the health center.
Reference
Grant, S. K. (2013). Person-Centered Therapy. Psychology 460: Counseling and Interviewing.
