Professional Identity Paper

Abstract
This paper will discuss developing beliefs and identity regarding marriage and family therapy. Over one’s life many beliefs are learned and become apart of who they are. These beliefs may be religious or just what they fell are right and wrong. These are the characteristics that will help or hinder them when it comes to being an effective counselor. Marriage and family therapist use psychotherapy to treat mental, emotional and interpersonal problems in the context of close relationships. Spiritual and or religious beliefs can also be incorporated into treatment. As a professional one must be aware not to impose personal beliefs into counseling.

Professional Identity Paper
From learning how to connect effectively with individuals I will develop wisdom and gain insight into myself. I would ultimately like to gain life growth and learning experiences from my work as a counselor. Religious Beliefs and Counseling
Do not judge others, is a religious belief that I have developed growing up and always try to keep in mind. As a child I was always told God is the only one that can judge. Matthews 7:1 say, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” I find this religious belief to be an effective belief to have when it comes to counseling because there will be individuals with all types of issues that seek counsel. This belief along with professionalism helps me to keep an open-mind and not get too wrapped up in what I think on a personal level. Another belief that I developed growing up is that suicide is an unforgivable sin. It was taught to me that if one committed suicide they would go to hell and live out eternity with Satan in the fiery pits of hell. There are many religious beliefs that we are taught growing up that help shape our approaches to what we think are right and wrong on a personal level. When it comes what is right and wrong behavior many thoughts come to mind. To be frank the Ten Commandments come to mind. But when thinking from a counseling perspective I