Counsellors And Counselled (Press, 13 February 1982)

A Time to Talk: Counsellor and Counselled, edited by Felix Donnelly, is a significant 1981 publication that explores various aspects of counselling in New Zealand. In addition to editing contributions from prominent New Zealand counsellors, Donnelly provides four sections characterised by his engaging, philosophical style. The book addresses the evolving nature of counselling over the past two decades, highlighting a shift from a non-directive approach—which has been satirically referred to as the counsellor being a "passive sponge"—to more dynamic methods that encourage self-expression and direction. The contributors include insights into their counselling practices, but some merely describe their agency's work without enhancing the overall understanding of counselling. The text conveys a sense that a large portion of the population either requires counselling for various life stressors or wishes to become counsellors themselves, whether on a voluntary or professional basis. It refers to contemporary societal challenges, suggesting that issues such as unemployment and vocational changes lead to a reaction of grief among those unable to secure jobs, often resulting in self-loathing. Donnelly's edited compilation touches upon various counselling techniques, eliminating superfluous details to reveal their core principles. Two student counsellors examine New Zealand as an anxious society and incorporate learning theory and scientific psychology in their client interactions. They emphasise the importance of "homework," or the practice of discussing and applying learned strategies in real-life situations. Throughout the book, counsellors reflect on their motivations and the potential distortions these may cause in their practice. The work also addresses specific life crises, such as pregnancy—whether requiring consideration of abortion or adjustment to the prospect of a new child—as well as discussing figures like Jesus portrayed as the "Master Counsellor" by a medical professional. Other topics include dealing with suicide and helplines, along with tailored counselling for Pacific Islanders and Māori communities. Additionally, Donna Awatere presents a provocative critique of humanistic and behaviouristic psychological traditions, viewing them as instruments of social control that attempt to adjust individuals to a flawed system. Concluding the collection, Dr Donnelly offers an optimistic outlook for the future of counselling, envisioning a landscape populated by skilled, well-supervised practitioners who understand their methodologies and can evaluate outcomes effectively. The book serves as a crucial historical document, contextualising the development of social services in New Zealand while providing a balanced view without false promises or oversimplified solutions for both clients and trainee counsellors.

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