Key Components That Characterize The Communication Process In Counselling

The communication process in counselling practice is complex and must elicit specific characteristics to be beneficial to the client. Although, holistically, the counselling experience may differ for each individual, there are a few core mechanisms that drive the helping relationship. In a clinical setting, it is imperative the client is able to trust the clinician and feel safe enough to openly discuss and share their lived experience. Additionally, a fundamental element of the communication process in counselling practice is the style of dialogue created. The therapeutic dialogue, or helping dialogue, utilizes verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to further the client’s narrative and engage both parties in problem management and opportunity development outcomes. Therefore, the key components which characterize the communication process in counselling practice are the establishment of trust and safety in conjunction with a strong therapeutic dialogue.

An essential element to creating safety is by thoroughly explaining confidentiality in a way that is fully understood by the client; furthermore, the counsellor must adhere to those terms at all times. In addition to confidentiality, it is important the counsellor create a safe space for their client. A safe space encompasses both a physically and psychologically comforting environment. The creation of physical comfort comes from the layout and aesthetics of the room, whereas the creation of psychological safety is encouraged by the counsellor’s verbal and nonverbal communication as well as the counsellor’s core values and ethics. Additionally, it is important to discuss expectations of the therapy and the therapeutic relationship to preface boundaries and create realistic