The Importance of Reflexive Practice Within the Context of Life-Long Career Development for Rehabilitation Counsellors

Abstract

Where reflexivity is the process of 'being aware in the moment of what is influencing our internal and external responses' (Etherington, 2004), this literature review was aimed at exploring the extent to which rehabilitation counsellors could use the core competencies outlined by the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC) for their own career development. Reference was given to two specific competencies: (1) Vocational counselling, and (2) Counselling and interpersonal skills to not only determine whether the espoused skills in these areas could be used to advance career development but to also address the issue of compassion fatigue. In addition to these competencies, the role of the organisation was also brought into question regarding its influences on the career development for rehabilitation counsellors and the extent it to which it can minimise burnout.