Therapeutic Communication Techniques
To encourage the expression of feelings and ideas
Active Listening– Being attentive to what the client is saying, verbally and non-verbally. Sit facing the client, open posture, lean toward the client, eye contact, and relax.
Sharing Observations– Making observations by commenting on how the other person looks, sounds, or acts. Example:” you look tired” or “I haven’t seen you eating anything today”.
Sharing Empathy– The ability to understand and accept another person’s reality, to accurately perceive feelings, and to communicate understanding. Example “It must be very frustrating to know what you want and not be able to do it”.
Sharing Hope– Communicating a “sense of possibility” to others. Encouragement when appropriate and positive feedback. Example “I believe you will find a way to face your situation, because I have seen your courage in the past”.
Sharing Humor– Contributes to feelings of togetherness, closeness and friendliness. Promotes positive communication in the following ways; prevention, perception, perspective.
Sharing Feelings– Nurses can help clients express emotions by making observations, acknowledging feelings, and encouraging communication, giving permission to express “negative” feelings and modeling healthy anger.
Using Touch– Most potent form of communication. Comfort touch such as holding a hand, is especially important for vulnerable clients who are experiencing severe illness.
Silence– Time for the nurse and client to observe one another, sort out feelings, think of how to say things, and consider what has been verbally communicated. The nurse should allow the client to break the silence.