In order for therapy sessions to be effective, communication must be effective. When therapy goes awry, it can be devastating for both parties involved. Therapeutic communication is described as a meaningful relationship between the patient and professional. The patient-centered approach is influenced and directed by the professional. The message conveys a presenting problem, learning of more effective coping mechanisms and the development of personal strengths.
Verbal Strategies
Verbal communication can take on many directions, and there is much to be said about voice intonation. It is not what is said but how it is expressed. Therapeutic sessions should be conducted in a calm, regular tone of voice to convey that the environment is safe and non-threatening. Never speak rapidly during the interaction. To seek information, ask open ended relevant questions. Open-ended questions allow your client to take the lead in the conversation and give information. Close-ended questions will do the opposite, which results in a yes or no question-blocking communication. This can be useful when a conversation gets off track. Clarifying statements to check for understanding and paraphrasing lets the person know that you are actively listening. Additionally, showing empathy is very important, because it is non-judgmental and shows you understand the situation.
Non-Verbal
Non-verbal cues in communication speak loudly. The non-verbal portion of communication represents 65 percent of the interaction. The patient may or may not be aware of your nonverbal communication depending on the ability to do so. Therefore, keep in mind the signals that you may be sending non-verbally and be in tune to your client's cues. Non-verbal communication includes your physical appearance, clothing worn, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, tone of voice and posture, gait and sitting position. All of these cues may signal how you feel. You would not enter the room looking disheveled, frowning and never making eye contact but looking at your notes the entire session. If so, you would convey that you are having a bad day and really could have stayed in bed. Non-verbal communication will contradict what is being said verbally. Non-verbal communication may involve sound but not words, e.g. screaming, moaning, sighing or crying. Deliberately introducing silence into a therapeutic session is an effective strategy. Silence encourages the patient to either reflect on the discussion, gather thoughts or regain composure.
Considerations
The National Communication Association believes that ethical behavior is a hallmark of professionalism in communication. They believe that ethical behavior is guided by values such as professional and social responsibility, confidentiality, honesty and openness, and respect for self and others. Gender, age and cultural factors should not be overlooked with respect to overall effective communication. Do not use stereotypes or cliches during a session, for they are non-therapeutic. As a professional, you can affect the relationship with your client either positively or to the converse, thus you should plan your interactions carefully, prior to having them.
