Counseling Reflection
Counseling CACREP Doctoral Competencies (2016)
a. Scholarly examination of theories relevant to counseling
b. Integration of theories relevant to counseling
c. Conceptualization of clients from multiple theoretical perspectives
d. Evidence-based counseling practices
e. Methods for evaluating counseling effectiveness
f. Ethical and culturally relevant counseling in multiple settings
Mastery level of knowledge and skill is demonstrated in the following CACREP competencies under the Counseling standard: (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), and (f).
Artifact 1 – Journal Article for PTSD on Integration of Theories relevant to counseling
Artifact 2 – CBT for Psychosis Presentation on Empirically Supported treatment for Adults suffering from Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
Artifact 3 – Group Counseling CACREP Competencies and Feedback from Dr. Denise Daniels
Artifact 4 – Counseling Practicum Video 1
Artifact 5 – Counseling Practicum Video 2
Artifact 6 – Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Lesson Plan Presentation
One of the most valuable contributions of this program in my counseling development has been to learn how to identify empirically supported treatments more accurately. I have been a counselor for 16 years and have always prepared treatment plans that are empirically based. However, I used to rely on books that provided the research already. I have developed better research skills for empirically supported treatments to the point where I no longer rely only on the books I have but I also research further than before I entered this program. I have been able to sharpen my clinical skills due to the exposure to more advanced practicum, treatments, and research on this area.
One of the most meaningful experiences at a professional level was through the course of Empirically Supported Treatments for adults where I was able to research and present on the topic of Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Psychosis. This project validated my passion for clinical work and encouraged me to take the challenge to do what other counselors avoid doing; focus on chronic cases. I also researched empirically supported treatments for Schizophrenia Spectrum disorders and Bipolar Spectrum Disorders. I was challenged by two chronic cases that other counselors transferred to me out of avoidance and lack of knowledge on how to treat these two disorders effectively in Spanish. Through this research and presentation, I was able to demonstrate my clinical skills and communicate to colleagues and students that chronic cases can be effectively treated when appropriate empirically based treatments are researched rather than avoided or transferred every time.
One way I plan to utilize this strength in my vocation is through teaching, supervising, and practicing those skills with clients. It is important to teach students and residents that all cases in the DSM-5 can be researched and treated with empirically supported treatments effectively. One area of challenge and continued development is treating children younger than eight years of age. Some of these children are better treated with Play Therapy, although I am trained in play therapy; I’m not a Registered Play Therapist. Consequently, I do refer those clients to the corresponding therapists. I plan and continuing training in order to be prepared in case I do have to treat client’s that have no access to Spanish speaking services.
My faith in Christ relates to this competency in everything I do in my profession. God called me into the counseling profession after the age of 30. For me being a counselor is a calling and serving Christ is my passion. God has given me a passion for counseling and clients that I never knew before. God, as the Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6) gives a model for his strategies, love, compassion, and care for his people. I take my profession very seriously and with the responsibility that I am accountable to God for the service I provide. God is everything to me and providing counseling to those in need is my responsibility before the Lord.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners’
Isaiah 61:1
Photos of my Private Practice of 16 years in Fort Worth, Texas
Counseling
Zoricelis Davila, Ph.D. LPC-S, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisor
Consejeria Bilingue y Psicoterapia