Professional Counselling in Cerebral Palsy

Expert Counseling for Coping with Cerebral Palsy

Given that a child’s cerebral palsy diagnosis is a struggle and a life-long shift for parents and close family members, getting expert counseling would be essential in dealing with these challenges. A counselor’s services are not a one-time occurrence, but can be sought whenever the need arises. The patient requires the counselor’s guidance to deal with the problems, discrimination, and inner conflicts she may encounter on her path. Professional counseling is required for the family to understand how to offer support and assist their loved one in coping with this distressing condition.

Discussing with the cerebral palsy patient, I would encourage her to express her feelings, fears, and worries regarding her situation and what that makes her feel. For instance, from the article, she would explain that she felt frustrated that she would not attain occupational therapy at a reputable hospital that was supposed to assist her as she prepares to join college. In such a scenario, I would offer a listening ear to allow her to express herself fully and maybe the resentment she felt towards her parents. In counseling, I would encourage her to look at things in a balanced manner. For instance, feeling bad because of the surgery by Pan that made things worse is alright, but it should not determine her path of life. In fact, that poor treatment can be used positively in her area of expertise by writing to other cerebral palsy patients on how to deal with challenges. In our various appointments, I would explain to her how her parents are also struggling with this reality and are trying their best to see her in her best state despite their shortcomings. For example, the parent’s choice for surgery was a means to keep her from dislocating when she was 30 or 40. In regular intervals, I would also help her to know her strengths and capitalize on them despite being disabled. It is through a counseling session that the patient can become more self-aware and allow healthy cognitive processes that will channel energies on positive emotions rather than negative ones.

Counseling for Parents and Understanding Their Role

Moreover, professional counseling advice on parents would aim at understanding their fears, concerns, and vulnerabilities in having such a kid. I will assist them in understanding the cognitive processes at play in the scenario and that acting out fear would make things worse. It is in these counseling sessions that parents understand their role in helping their daughter remain positive. For example, they should not assume she does not know something but should consult her in the decision and allow her to express her concerns and perspective. When she feels respected and involved, she will sense love, care, and appreciation. Such positivity is essential in dealing with this chronic illness as it provides the strength to carry on. Also, the parents will understand that their daughter’s well-being is dependent on their choices. Thus, in the case of Pan and Green, they should have avoided them because of their lack of professionalism in conduct and communication. The parents ensuring their daughter visits qualified orthopedist would be vital since it would allow her to attain milestones, live independently, and accomplish as much as an average person. It is through counseling that parents are empowered to be a pillar of strength to improve the daughter’s optimistic by living each day at a time without unnecessary anxieties of what tomorrow would bring.

General Counseling Advice for Different Disabilities

The advice would be slightly different if it were another disability since the manifestations of the challenges would be different. Some are more pronounced like if a person is blind, but others are ‘easier’ to handle like if one cannot walk unless assisted. But there is general counseling advice that cuts across all forms of disabilities.