First and foremost, the counseling process is a collaborative approach where you work with a licensed therapist to identify, explore and resolve any personal, emotional, or psychological difficulties or issues. It's an active process, requiring participation and engagement from both the therapist and the client. Collaboration is vital, as it ensures that each individual is working towards the same goal.

The counseling process can be broken down into three stages: the initial stage, the middle stage, and the termination stage. The initial stage is the first phase of counseling and can last between one and three sessions. During this stage, the therapist will gather relevant information about the client's history, current symptoms, and any issues that the client is currently experiencing. It involves the therapist creating rapport with the client and developing a therapeutic alliance.

The middle stage of counseling usually lasts longer than the initial stage and can go on for several sessions. The middle stage is where the therapist and the client begin to work together to address any issues the client may be experiencing. It involves the therapist helping the client to develop new skills, coping mechanisms, and strategies to help facilitate change. The middle stage is where progress is made, and goals are achieved.

The termination stage is the final stage of counseling where the therapist and the client work together to bring about the counseling process's closure. It involves reviewing the client's progress, discussing what goals the client has achieved, and preparing the client for life after counseling. It's also a time to celebrate successes and discuss ways to prevent relapse or setbacks in the future.