Passing your National Licensing Exam
Getting licensed can open up incredible opportunities, but the exam can seem daunting. Our podcasts make passing more achievable and even fun. Dr Hutchinson and Stacy’s energy and passion for this content will get you motivated and confident.
We break things down in understandable ways - no stuffiness or complexity and focus on the critical parts you need so your valuable study time counts. You’ll come away feeling like, “I can do this!” Whether it’s nailing down diagnoses, theoretical approaches, or applying ethics in challenging situations, we help you get into a licensed mindset. Knowledge domains we cover in these podcasts include:
Professional Practice and Ethics
Intake, Assessment, & Diagnosis
Areas of Clinical Focus
Treatment Planning
Counseling Skills and Interventions
Core Counseling Attributes
And, of course, the DSM-5-TR.
If you listen, you might surprise yourself at how much you absorb and enjoy it along the way. Take that first step – you’ll gain confidence and valuable skills and feel confident getting ready for your licensing exam!
Passing your National Licensing Exam
Microskills: Unconditional Positive Regard
Listen in as we discuss the basic assumptions and key concepts, such as empathy, non-judgment, and congruence, that form the foundation of unconditional positive regard. We share real-life examples and techniques therapists use to empower clients and foster their personal development, like active listening and reflecting feelings. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the healing potential of unconditional positive regard in therapy!
Unconditional positive regard is a concept developed by Carl Rogers, a prominent figure in humanistic psychology. It refers to an attitude of complete acceptance, support, and non-judgment toward an individual. Unconditional positive regard involves showing respect, empathy, and genuineness, regardless of the person's actions, beliefs, or feelings. It means valuing and accepting the person for who they are without imposing conditions or expectations. This attitude is central to client-centered therapy and can facilitate personal growth, self-acceptance, and positive change.
Here's an example of demonstrating unconditional positive regard in a therapeutic context:
Client: "I'm so disappointed in myself for relapsing. I feel like such a failure."
Therapist (Unconditional Positive Regard): "I want you to know that I'm here to support you, and I appreciate your honesty in sharing this with me. Relapses are a part of the recovery journey, and they don't define your worth or the progress you've made. Let's work together to understand what triggered the relapse and explore strategies to help you move forward."
In this example, the therapist demonstrates unconditional positive regard by expressing acceptance, empathy, and support toward the client. They emphasize that the client's relapse does not diminish their worth or progress. Instead of judging or criticizing the client, the therapist maintains a non-judgmental attitude and focuses on helping the client understand the triggers and develop strategies for moving forward. This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship built on trust, acceptance, and compassion, providing a safe space for clients to explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.
Unconditional positive regard Main premise and process. Unconditional positive regard UPR is a core concept in person-centered therapy. It refers to the therapist's non-judgmental and accepting attitude towards the client, regardless of their thoughts, feelings or behaviors. This helps create a safe and trusting environment enabling the client to explore and grow. Upr helps the client feel accepted and understood, which can lead to greater self-esteem and higher levels of functioning. It also encourages clients to be honest with themselves and their therapist. This openness is essential for effective therapy. Upr creates a foundation from which the client can confront their issues and work towards positive change.
Stacy:Basic assumptions One Clients are capable of self-directed growth. A therapeutic environment should be based on unconditional positive regard, respect and trust. Change is possible through the exploration of thoughts and feelings in a safe setting. By creating an atmosphere of acceptance, clients are able to explore their issues and move toward positive change. Two Acceptance and non-judgment foster personal development. Honesty and self-awareness are vital to personal growth. By focusing on acceptance instead of judgment, the client's progress can be accelerated and new perspectives gained. Three Therapists must separate the person from their behaviors, as it is crucial for them to understand that behavior is not indicative of the worth of an individual. This allows therapists to focus on the client's needs and foster growth and change, rather than being clouded by preconceived judgments. By separating the person from their behaviors, therapists can help clients develop self-awareness, identify maladaptive patterns and work collaboratively to cultivate healthier coping strategies and more adaptive behaviors for a better quality of life.
Stacy:Key concepts Empathy The therapist understands and validates the client's emotions. Non-judgment The therapist accepts the client without evaluating their worth. Techniques Active listening The therapist listens deeply to the client's experiences. Reflecting feelings The therapist mirrors the client's emotions, demonstrating understanding terms congruence The therapist's genuine and authentic presence in the therapeutic relationship. Acceptance The therapist's unconditional regard for the client's thoughts, feelings and experiences. Here's an example of what a therapist would say to demonstrate unconditional, positive regard. I understand that you're feeling overwhelmed right now And I want you to know that I accept you and your feelings without judgment. So let's see if we can explore these emotions and help you find a way forward.
