" If you’re going to counsel people – and that’s all my ministry is, it’s a counseling ministry more than anything else – people have to believe that they can trust you and that they can listen to you, that you’re going to try to help them and not just politically try to convert them to your views. "
- Robert H. Schuller

In this statement, Robert H. Schuller emphasizes the importance of trust and mutual respect in a counseling relationship. He suggests that effective counseling requires more than just sharing one's own views; it involves understanding and genuinely trying to help others based on their unique needs and situations.

Schuller’s words delve into the essence of what makes counseling effective, highlighting the need for counselors to be seen as trustworthy advisors rather than mere advocates pushing a specific agenda. Trust is paramount in such relationships because individuals are more likely to open up and accept advice when they feel understood and supported without judgment. This approach not only enhances the counselor's credibility but also increases the likelihood of positive outcomes. It underscores the importance of empathy, active listening, and genuine concern for the well-being of others, which are essential components in building a robust counseling relationship.

Robert H. Schuller is an American television evangelist, author, and founder of the Crystal Cathedral Ministries. He was known for his emphasis on positive Christianity and was influential in bringing a more modern, less dogmatic approach to religious discourse. His work has touched many lives through his teachings and writings, which often focus on personal development and spiritual growth from a compassionate perspective.