Listen.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a workshop on how to provide counseling to individuals who are going through difficult times or may be struggling with depression.

To become a skilled and effective counselor, it's essential to have a deep understanding of the traits and qualities that make up a good counselor. One of the most important aspects of being a good counselor is the ability to actively listen to your clients.

Although it may seem like a straightforward skill, active listening can be quite challenging in practice. It requires a great deal of focus, empathy, and patience to truly hear and understand what someone is saying, especially when they are going through a difficult time.

In the end, the ability to listen well and to provide compassionate support can make all the difference in helping someone overcome their struggles and find a path forward.