How to Improve Counselor Communication Skills

A counselor needs good listening skills to effectively analyze situations.

Counselors, no matter what specialty, need basic skills to be perceived as caring, sympathetic, and discreet professionals. Sometimes nonverbal communication is more important that what is said.

Body Language

Lean forward with a concerned expression, and make it a point not to be distracted with calls or interruptions. A counselor should always be aware of her body language and the subtle messages she sends.

Voice and Tone

A softened voice imbued with caring and sympathy is far more effective than a demanding or stern voice. A good counselor modulates her tone to be perceived as encouraging and helpful.

Asking open-ended questions can be effective in encouraging a client to open up. An effective counselor will also use paraphrasing--restating key points of the client's conversations--to convey empathy.

Summarizing the meeting at the end of the session can make goals clearer and easier to follow. It will also set the stage for a follow-up meeting.

Eye Contact

An effective counselor keeps good professional eye contact with her client. She does not allow the work on her desk or the flashing phone message light to distract her. A counselor's eye contact should always reflect her undivided attention.

Office Atmosphere

Furnish your office with comfortable chairs, and decorate with muted colors and pictures and photographs that are restful or inviting. Your office space should send the message that this is a place to build trust and form a solid relationship.

References

• Basic Counseling Skills: Step One - Learning the Basic Skills of Counseling Techniques

Resources

• Counselling Skills for Dummies; Gail Evans; 2007
• Effective Counseling Skills; Daniel Keeran; 2009