Being Versus Acting Like a Professional

Therapeutic Resource

• As a licensed or certified therapist, you are considered a professional. This title places certain expectations of behavior which reflect the values and beliefs of your profession. Many of these behaviors are inherent in who we are. Some are learned with maturity and experience. Mastery of these professional behaviors will impact how you are perceived in the workplace, and to a large degree will impact upon your future “success” as a therapist.

How Professionals Think• 1. They focus on results.

• 2. They understand that they are part of something bigger than themselves and work toward the common good.

• 3. They possess a personal set of standards (which include their values and moral beliefs)

• 4. They know the important of integrity.

• 5. They know how to control their emotions, even in the most difficult circumstances.

• 6. They enjoy the growth and success of others.

• Adapted from Bill Wiersma, The Power of Professionalism

What behaviors are expected from a professional therapist?• 1. Initiative

• 2. Empathy

• 3. Cooperation

• 4. Organization

• 5. Dependability

• 6. Competence

• 7. Integrity

• 8. Professional appearance

What professionals do not do.

• 1. Use cell phones for personal calls during work hours

• 2. Text during work hours.

• 3. Arrive late to work, come back late from lunch or leave early without permission

• 4. Keep their work area in a disorganized and sloppy manner

• 5. Dominate equipment that others need to use.

• 6. Fail to complete tasks that others are expecting of them.