Week 2 - Interpersonal Skills
Silence
Silence is not something to be afraid of, and really happens non-deliberately.
Can be comfortable and invaluable if it allows for reflection and gathering of thoughts or feelings.
Allows the other person (and ourselves) to absorb or work with the experiences of the session.
Caution: Non-constructive silences are uncomfortable and destructive, and can make a person think you are floundering, judgmental, or not accepting.
Referral Skills
Sometimes necessary if a person needs specialised help
Referrals should be done with great sensitivity, since the person may experience a referral as a rejection.
Referral is about getting the client the best possible help, not about ‘passing the buck’ or terminating our relationship.
