The document discusses the behaviors expected of professional therapists. As licensed professionals, therapists are expected to behave in ways that reflect their profession's values and beliefs. Some behaviors, like empathy and cooperation, come naturally, while others are developed through experience. Mastering professional behaviors impacts how therapists are perceived and their success. The document outlines behaviors like initiative, dependability, and integrity that are expected, as well as behaviors to avoid like unprofessional phone or computer use or failing to complete tasks.

1. Being Versus Acting
Like a Professional
Therapeutic Resource

2. • 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.

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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.