The Non-Therapist

If you
   are an ordinary person whom other people come to because they know you will listen.
   are a pro in your own field, trained ages ago; or your main gig is not counseling, yet you find yourself counseling anyway.
   find yourself listening to other people’s stories and thinking, “What on earth should I say?”
 
This book is for you!
 
It does not take a boatload of fancy degrees and techniques to help someone. It takes empathy and a few key skills.
 
Reach people, draw them out, and help them explore their issues with easy-to-use listening techniques that can be helpful immediately, with tips on what not to do.
   Stop worrying about whether you might say the wrong words and make things worse.
   Know how to choose the best regional resources for someone who needs more help than you can give.
   Deploy user-friendly tools for supporting your loved ones, friends, colleagues, employees, neighbours, patients, parishioners or clients.
   Supervisors, HR people, and union reps: support an employee or colleague, resulting in satisfying work experiences and relationships.
   Professional helpers: gain or renew skills that complement and contribute to the other services you offer.
   Informal helpers: assist your community by filling a service gap effectively.
   Incorporate your new skills into your current job or volunteer position.
 
Help as if you were a pro! (or even more so!)