An examination into what it takes to become a family and
relationship counselor. Several articles are analyzed dealing with
the issues and
techniques that counselors in this field cope with and use. Systems theory and interpersonal conflict theory are two of the techniques that can be used. The paper addresses one of the issues that clergy are used so often as a means of psychotherapy that psychologists and the clergy should work together to help more people. Another issue addressed is that of counselor ethics. It is becoming a more mandated practice to report any type of child abuse, thus breaking confidentiality and possibly harming the client-therapist
relationship. The writer interviews Tim Klopfenstein about his position as a counselor. He shows how this professional wants to help people, but warns that a counselor should know how to help him/herself first.