[Development of methods and concepts in psychological counseling centers]

Abstract

The methods and concepts of a psychological counseling service are influenced by a host of different aspects. For instance, relevant areas include various psychotherapeutic methods as well as social and general education. Especially important regarding the methodology and conceptual developmental methods that psychological counselors are confronted with, according to the authors, are the institutional and social contextual influences. A psychological counseling team is obligated to critically analyze these different influences which are understood as expressions of the external reality of the individual. These factors can be understood as a mirror image of the confrontation of the client with his or her external life style and perceptions. Based on these reflections, it is therefore the responsibility and duty of the psychological counselor to take into consideration the background of the afore-mentioned various contexts in order to effectively enhance the counseling process.