What to Look for When Hiring a Counselling Professional

Finding the right wellness counsellor for your organization can make a big difference in creating a healthier, more supportive environment. Whether you’re a corporate business or an NGO, hiring the right professional can help your team manage stress, build resilience, and improve overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to guide you through the process:

1. Qualifications and Accreditation

Make sure the counsellor you choose has the right qualifications and is registered with an accredited professional organization, that is recognised by SAQA – the South African Qualifications Framework. This shows they are trained and committed to ethical practices.

Look for:

• A degree or diploma in counselling, psychology, social work or a related field.
• Membership with groups like the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP), the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) or the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
• Specialized training in relevant areas like stress management, workplace wellness, or holistic health.

2. Experience

The importance of practical experience can not be overstated. This is a game-changer when it comes to understanding different challenges and finding the best solutions.

Ask about:

• How many years they’ve been working as a counsellor.
• What kinds of situations, challenges or issues they’ve handled, like workplace stress or team dynamics.
• If they’ve worked with organizations similar to yours.

3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

One of the most important qualities in a counsellor is their ability to connect with people and to be a safe person for those who come to see them.

Look for someone who:

• Can listen deeply and empathetically.
• Communicates clearly and professionally.
• Creates a safe, non-judgmental space for people to open up.

5. Cultural Competence

It’s important to hire a counsellor who understands and respects the diverse backgrounds and values of your team. This is especially crucial if your organization values inclusivity and equity.

6. Availability and Accessibility

Practical details matter too. Think about whether the counsellor can meet your organization’s needs in terms of:

• Offering on-site or remote sessions.
• Being available full-time or as needed.
• Fitting within your budget or salary expectations.

7. Reputation and References

It helps to know what others say about the counsellor. You can:

• Ask for references from previous employers or clients.
• Look for testimonials online or in professional directories.
• Verify their registration with ASCHP, HPCSA, SACSSP or other relevant professional body.

8. Ethical Standards

Trust and confidentiality are the cornerstones of effective counselling. Make sure the counsellor:

• Explains how they protect confidentiality for both employees and management.
• Maintains clear boundaries in their professional role.
• Is transparent about their fees and qualifications.

9. Humanitas Training as a Resource

If the counsellor has completed the Humanitas Training program, you have an extra layer of reassurance. Humanitas can vouch for the information on their CV and provide a character reference based on their performance during the course. This can make your hiring decision much easier.

10. Trial Period

A trial period is a great way to see if the counsellor is the right fit for your team. During this time, you can:

• Observe how they handle workplace challenges.
• Get feedback from employees who work with them.
• See how well they align with your organizational goals.

Conclusion

Hiring the right wellness or specialist wellness counsellor can make a huge difference in creating a healthier, happier workplace. By focusing on their qualifications, experience, and ability to connect with your team, you can feel confident in your decision. And if they’re a graduate of the Humanitas Training program, you’ll have extra peace of mind knowing they’ve been thoroughly vetted and supported. Investing in the right person is an investment in the well-being of your entire organization.