Counselor Characteristics are defined as:

• A. The personality and the approach of the counselor
• B. The client's characteristics
• C. The setting
• D. The theory used

Answer: (A)

Counselor characteristics focus on who the counselor is and how they work with clients. This means the counselor’s personality—traits like warmth, empathy, genuineness, and consistency—and their professional approach or style in conducting sessions. These elements shape the therapeutic relationship, influence how safe and understood clients feel, and affect how interventions are received. The client’s characteristics, the setting, and the theory used are different aspects: the client’s traits affect their engagement; the setting provides the environment; the theory guides techniques, but not the counselor’s personal traits. So, combining the counselor’s personality with their chosen approach best defines counselor characteristics.