[ Contents | Search | Next | Previous | Up ]
From: Lynne
Date: 13 Oct 2007
Time: 11:20:24 -0500
Remote Name: 70.237.227.11
Mona, Rapport is an odd thing, isn't it? Sometimes it develops fairly quick, at other times it has to be worked at, and, as you suggest, it may not always be possible to achieve. I wonder if there is a literature on rapport? I have never attempted to search for it. By rapport, I mean the process of setting the client at ease, increasing their level of comfort in the therapy setting. When rapport does not come easily, I think that it is possible to address it directly, in an attempt to gain that comfort level, so the work of therapy can progress. I do believe quite strongly that listening with real interest is probably the best way to establish a good working relationship. If the client senses my genuineness, as Carl Rogers labels it, then that person is much more likely to feel connected to the therapist. Being honest with the client is also important in establishing the working relationship. When a therapist attempts to 'put on a show' in any way, that falseness comes across loud and clear to the client. If I sense that the client is uneasy about something we are discussing, or just in general with the client-therapist relationship, I openly address it, commenting that they seem uneasy, and if they agree that they are, asking what they believe is causing that feeling. It could be that they think you are asking too much of them in terms of taking a step in treatment. If so, then redirecting therapy, taking a smaller step or changing focus may be in order. Or, perhaps they believe they are ready to take the step, but need more support from me. In stuttering treatment, clients are often asked to step outside of their zone of comfort, so it is quite important that they develop that good working relationship with the SLP. If, after some time, it appears that this relationship cannot be established, for whatever reason, then I think it is appropriate to ask the client (or parent) if they would like to try working with someone else. What are your thoughts on this? You seem to have worked with clients in another profession, and probably have some good experience with this that you can transfer to this field. Best regards, Lynne