Mental Health Professionals
Keeping it Real
Wow, we have all been there! One day we are so excited to “get out there, to help” and then we are also humbled by the realization that we are merely human. We do not have all the answers (thankfully) and we continue to learn, seek and hopefully get help for ourselves as needed too. This blog is meant to give you ideas, share experiences using The 5 Needs in therapy settings, small groups and with individuals. Each person is unique, some will find The 5 Needs work helpful. Some may not.
If you find a person stuck or unsure, The 5 Needs can open the door to talk about topics that may not have been open prior, for a variety of reasons. We will share some stories of how this happened.
If you need a framework for a group that can be as wide or as narrow as the group needs, The 5 Needs may be helpful. If you are providing help in schools, The 5 Needs have been used in many settings: take a look at the blog for teachers. If you are working with a family, sometimes The 5 Needs can help build connections and bridges. We all experience these needs at some point in life. We can find common ground, and often address bullying type behaviors by showing that we are more alike than different.
As we begin to learn to question, “What do they (or I) need?” instead of “What is wrong with them or me?” we can grow, change and become who we are under all the stuff of life. Counseling can help people with this process in tremendous ways in multiple settings.
Unlike Maslow’s basic needs, these are not necessarily a pyramid, as helpful as that may be for us. The 5 Needs are more circular, sometimes more than one need is met at a time. The 5 Needs were originally taught by Dr. William Glasser. Please look into his work for more details and other ways of using The 5 Needs. My work is similar, however, I am not connected with his organization. I was graciously given permission to use his concepts in my work.
Come back and visit when you can. What to expect from this blog:
- Exploration of each of The 5 Needs we share in life.
- Stories of how using The 5 Needs have helped in various settings.
- Ideas that may be helpful in your work or life.
- Suggestions for “homework” in therapy to support the work you are doing.
- Thoughts and suggestions from myself and others on how to use The 5 Needs personally and professionally.
Who am I thinking about while writing this blog?
- Newbies: Sometimes we are new to the field, looking for helpful ways to help others (and yourself)
- Experienced mental health professionals looking for something different to consider with individuals or in small groups that is appropriate for all ages
- In-home providers seeking new ideas
- School social workers
- School counselors
- Residential treatment team members
- Day or “home staff ” who are looking for ways to connect with the children and create common ground
- Residential placement school staff using The 5 Needs as part of the curriculum
Things to be aware of while using The 5 Needs materials and concepts:
- Sometimes, The 5 Needs materials can help people recall some of the work you did with them long after they have moved on. If they use The 5 Needs workbook or other materials they will have something concrete to recall what they learned and accomplished while they had time with you. This can help your work continue long after your relationship has ended.
- Sometimes trophies or certificates are given when children complete a group or workbook, Sometimes this is the first trophy or certificate a child receives. This was true for us with a high school summer group we did. One of the boys came up after in tears and said it was the first trophy he received. He worked for it and was proud. (If you are interested in trophies or certificates, contact Wendy@the5Needs for more information).
- Be aware that The 5 Needs can stir up trauma, past pain, current stresses and even abuse. Please go slowly and carefully, the The 5 Needs may seem simple and easy but from experience I can tell you they can also be complex and difficult (more on this in future blogs).
- The 5 Needs materials are flexible. They can be used in order or not. As you know, meeting people where they are is the key.
Thank you for the work you are doing.
