It is important to know about qualities of a counsellor because you will be counselling a diabetic patient and his family members in clinic/home/hospital and therefore, you should possess these qualities to become a good counsellor.

Following are the qualities of a good counsellor:

· Genuineness: A genuine relationship between a counsellor and the client is the basis of successful counselling.

· Good listener: Listening involves attending to the client's verbal and non-verbal messages. As a counsellor, the way you respond depends on how you listen. In turn, the way you listen plays a major part in encouraging or discouraging a client to keep talking.

· Positive Regard: Sensitivity, respect, friendliness and consideration are important. Showing personal warmth is basic in any relationship.

· Believing the client: A counsellor should be able to communicate to clients that he believes them. For a client, it is very comforting to realize that someone understands how they feel.

· Sensitive: Respect the client's cultural and belief systems. Be sensitive to the cultural traditions.

· Knowledgeable: It is essential to have accurate and up-to-date knowledge. Counsellors should be well informed about the field they work in, including the services and resources available to their client. Make the client aware of the various alternatives available to them and work with them to consider the advantages, disadvantages of each.

· Self Awareness: Recognize own limitations.

· Honesty: If you do not know something, tell your client.

· Patience: Move at the client's pace-do not rush them. Ensure that adequate time is provided. As some issues might be too sensitive or maybe the client is not sure yet whether to trust you or not, do not force him to speak. Do not block free expression of feelings.

· Non-judgmental: Avoid falling into the trap of taking sides and deciding who is right and who is wrong. You are there to listen and not to judge. You need to demonstrate acceptance.

· Empathetic: This is the ability to see the problem as the client sees it, yet at the same time observing what is happening to the client.

· Confidentiality: At all times, respect the confidentiality of what is disclosed to you. Do not fall into the trap of easy gossip.