ABSTRACT
Once upon a time, at the beginning of a fall semester, there were two counseling students who came to learn the rules for doing therapy. The students dutifully practiced basic counseling skills, learned how to sit in an open and inviting posture, and memorized ethical guidelines. Despite good grades and positive feedback, the students approached the first practicum experience with much trepidation, fearful that the wrong response or movement would do irreparable harm to a client. The students gratefully turned to a supervisor, who provided support and encouragement, and who explained what the beginning counselor should do. The students sought to emulate this role model’s actions, mannerisms, and theoretical approach. The students began to believe that they had learned the rules for doing therapy and diligently applied them to each client.
