A Helping Guide for Lay Counselors and Paraprofessionals in Therapeutic Communities

Abstract ―​

A rehabilitation facility utilizing the Therapeutic Community (TC) modality identified a need to improve the psychosocial support provided by its lay counselors and paraprofessional case managers. A training needs analysis (TNA) revealed significant gaps in basic counseling skills, particularly in demonstrating empathy, warmth, and respect, in addition to managing dual relationships that arise from simultaneously serving as authority figures and counselors within the program. This capstone project addresses these concerns by developing a training program grounded in Robert Carkhuff’s Helping Model and Frederic Reamer’s guidelines for boundary management in dual relationships. A mixed-methods approach was used to gather data through client satisfaction surveys and focus group discussions with the case managers. Findings showed that initial rapport was easily formed due to shared lived experiences, however, sustaining a therapeutic partnership proved to be challenging due to the conflicting roles inherent in the organization. To address these concerns, a comprehensive training design was developed, incorporating lectures, role-playing exercises, and peer feedback to strengthen facilitation-phase helping skills and boundary-setting practices. The program’s goal is to equip lay counselors and paraprofessionals with the necessary skills to conduct effective and ethical counseling sessions, and to navigate the complexities of dual relationships in a TC setting. An evaluation plan which involves post-training client feedback and peer assessments is proposed to measure the program’s impact. By addressing the specific developmental needs of non-professionally trained counselors, this project contributes to improving the quality of psychosocial support and aligns with broader goals of holistic, client-centered care in rehabilitation settings.