How Counselors Protect Their Presence With Clients

Interview with Alisa Kamis-Brinda, Owner and Therapist, Serenity Solutions

Alisa Kamis-Brinda LCSW, LCADC

How Counselors Can Make Therapy Endings Feel Supportive

Ending therapy does not have to feel abrupt or uncertain. This article shares insights from experts in the field on setting a gradual timeline, building aftercare, and strengthening clients’ confidence before discharge. It also shows how to honor progress, address doubts, and keep support available after treatment ends.

Counselor Brief · 8 voices

How Counselors Reset Between Emotionally Demanding Sessions

Emotionally demanding sessions can leave counselors carrying more than the client’s story. Experts in the field share practical ways to reset, set boundaries, and regain focus between appointments. These simple habits help protect well-being without taking extra time.

Counselor Brief · 10 voices

How five minutes of play can strengthen the parent-child relationship

Jeffrey LaPonsie LMSW

How Counselors Can Restart Stalled Therapy Conversations

When therapy conversations stall, the pause can reveal more than a lack of progress. Experts in counseling offer practical ways to explore the impasse, reassess the plan, and respond to changing needs. These strategies can help turn a stuck session into a useful next step.

Counselor Brief · 11 voices

Therapy Boundaries: Responding to Gifts, Invitations, and Social Media with Warmth and Clarity

A thank-you gift, dinner invitation, or social media request can put a therapist in an awkward position. This guide shows how to respond with warmth and clear boundaries while protecting the therapy relationship. Insights from experts in the field offer practical ways to redirect appreciation, honor milestones, and keep the focus on care.

Counselor Brief · 10 voices

Therapy Sessions: How to Handle Last-Minute Disclosures Without Losing Boundaries

Last-minute disclosures can test a therapist’s boundaries, judgment, and ability to respond with care. This article shares practical ways to acknowledge serious concerns, protect confidentiality, and plan the right next steps. Insights from experienced mental health experts help clarify what to address now and what can wait until the next session.

Counselor Brief · 25 voices

Repairing Ruptures in Therapy: Openers That Rebuild Safety

When trust breaks in therapy, the right opening can help restore safety. This article shares practical ways to center a client’s experience, acknowledge harm, validate pain, and offer a path forward. It also includes insights from experts in the field on asking what repair should look like and following through.

Counselor Brief · 6 voices

Therapy Experts Share How to Hold No-Show Boundaries Without Losing Trust

A missed therapy appointment does not have to damage trust or weaken treatment. Therapy experts share practical ways to understand no-shows, welcome clients back, and set clear limits. Learn how to offer grace while keeping boundaries that support progress.

Counselor Brief · 8 voices

Repair Cultural Missteps in Counseling With a Grounding Line

A missed cultural cue can weaken trust in counseling, but repair is possible. Experts in the field share practical ways to pause, listen, acknowledge mistakes, and honor each client’s lived experience. These simple steps can help counselors respond with greater care and adapt support to each person’s context.

Counselor Brief · 10 voices

From the Client's Chair: The Most Powerful Thing a Counselor Ever Did Was Believe Me

Alyssa Ostroff

How Board Games Can Foster Social Connections and Support Positive Mental Health

Robert Watson