Using Your Face in Therapy: Sometimes a slow nod or an eye roll says it all

Edge of the Couch

Sometimes we concentrate so much on knowing what to say to clients that we forget that what we don’t say is just as therapeutic. This week’s episode is all about the power and impact of nonverbal communication with our clients. This episode explores nods, smirks, grimaces, hand gestures, eye rolls, body movements and so much more. Even the smallest muscle flex in our face when perfectly timed can communicate some really big things to our clients, especially the longer we have been working with that person. After a while, our clients really do get to know us and before we’ve even said a word, they know what we’re thinking! Beyond what can be communicated silently to clients, we also talk about what a “neutral face” really is. Though we have both fervently reject being neutral in therapy, we are huge advocates for softening our faces during pivotal therapy moments and we share all about that this week.
Alison McCleary
www.alpenglowcounselling.com
@alpenglow_counselling on Instagram
Jordan Pickell
www.jordanpickellcounselling.ca
@jordanpickellcounselling on Instagram
Edge of the Couch
www.edgeofthecouch.com
@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram
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