What is the primary goal of a counselor when working with a client facing difficulties?

The primary goal of a counselor when working with a client facing difficulties is to illuminate problems and rational solutions. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the client's unique situation and emotions. A counselor's role is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their feelings, identify the root causes of their difficulties, and understand the implications of their financial decisions.

By illuminating problems, counselors help clients gain insight into their financial challenges, which is a crucial first step in developing solutions. Rational solutions then follow as clients learn to evaluate options, make informed choices, and work towards achievable goals. This process fosters empowerment and encourages clients to take ownership of their financial journey, rather than simply being told what to do or feeling dismissed.

In contrast, dismissing feelings would not help build a rapport or trust, enforcing a strict decision-making process could stifle the client's ability to consider their options fully, and providing immediate financial resources might not address the underlying issues that need resolution. These approaches lack the essential supportive and exploratory elements that are vital in effective counseling. Thus, focusing on illuminating problems and rational solutions aligns with the counselor's goal of guiding clients through their challenges in a constructive and empathetic manner.