On January 16, 2026, MCDA held its second case consultation of the program year. Doubling the number of participants from the Fall 2025 session, we provided a collaborative space for career counselors to share strategies as they navigate complex client scenarios.

Navigating Long-Term Unemployment

Counselors explored methods for supporting clients grappling with the bitterness and frustration often tied to extended unemployment. Key interventions included:

  • Root Cause Analysis: Using targeted questioning to identify underlying issues fueling negative reactions.
  • Cognitive Reframing: Encouraging a “reframing mindset” to shift focus toward positive outcomes and mental health resources.
  • Skill Development: Recommending upskilling and reskilling resources to boost confidence and increase marketability.

Mastery of Interview Preparation

The discussion included mock interviews as a vital tool for pinpointing specific areas for improvement. Practitioners could utilize the “3 C’s” framework, coaching candidates to address each for interview readiness:

  1. Capability: Can the candidate perform the job duties?
  2. Compatibility: Will they thrive within the specific work environment?
  3. Commitment: Are they genuinely excited and dedicated to the role?

Bolstering Client Self-Esteem

Counselors also brought up the important role of self-esteem in coping with job loss, fostering resilience and job search success.  Helping clients recognize their inherent strengths can make an impact. The group had ideas about leveraging validated assessments to build self-efficacy:

  • Strength-Based Tools: CliftonStrengths and VIA Character Strengths.
  • Personality Inventories: 16PF and MBTI to illuminate workplace skills.

Writing Exercise – Self-Reflection

Another helpful tool is to incorporate written self-reflection. Asking clients to contemplate the following questions can help them focus on times in their lives when they felt competent:

>Write out 3 past accomplishments – moments, projects and tasks where you felt successful.

>What activity, event, or situation have you experienced where you have felt confident and capable?  Why did you feel this?

>Think about a time when you received positive feedback from a supervisor or colleague.  What did they say?

>Ask others – what do you think are my greatest strengths?  Adjectives that describe me.

Resources recommended during the case consultation:

Please consider joining our next case consultation which will be hosted on March 20, 2026, from 12-1:00 PM on ZOOM. More information regarding the event can be found on our Events page on the MCDA website, and will be included in future MCDA Newsletters.

Brandon Beaulieu, CCSP, GCDF|  He/Him/His

Career Navigator, Goodwill – Easter Seals

MCDA Professional Development Committee Chair, 2025-2026