Therapeutic Communication Techniques

Front 1

Using Silence

Back 1

The client says: "We drink and smoke a lot here." The student thinks...how can that be...drinking alcohol in a state hospital? But says nothing...continues to make eye contact and conveys interest...using silence...the client then says: "yes we drink a lot of cokes and smoke a lot."

Front 2

Offering self

Back 2

"I'll sit with you awhile."

Front 3

Voicing doubt

Back 3

"Isn't that unusual?"
"I find that hard to believe."
"Really?"

Front 4

Exploring

Back 4

"tell me more about that."
"Would you describe it more fully?"

Front 5

Using Broad Openings

Back 5

"What would you like to talk about?"
"Tell me what's bothering you."

Front 6

Reflecting

Back 6

Patient: "Do you think I should tell the doctor?"
Nurse: "Do you think you should tell the doctor?"

Front 7

Presenting Reality

Back 7

"I saw no one else in the room."
"Your mother is not here. I am a nurse."
"That sound was a car backfiring."

Front 8

Using General Leads (using neutral expressions to encourage continued talking by the client)

Back 8

"Go on." "Ummm..I am listening"
"Tell me about it"

Front 9

Seeking Clarification

Back 9

"What would you say is the main point of what you said?"

Front 10

Restating

Back 10

Client: "I can't sleep. I stay awake all night."
Nurse: "You have difficulty sleeping"

Front 11

Verbalizing the implied

Back 11

Client: "I can't talk to you or anyone. It's a waste of time."
Nurse: "Do you feel that on one understands?"

Front 12

Making Observations

Back 12

"You appear tense"
"I notice you are biting your lips."

Front 13

Summarizing

Back 13

"Let's see, so far you have said..."