Gentle Ways to Redirect Chatty Clients Back On Track

Don't we all have that one friend…or know someone, or even be someone…who keeps hopping like a kangaroo from one topic to another?! Phew... that does take a lot of effort and talent, not going to lie about that. 😅

With friends, we can still somehow keep track of what they say, or even ask them to slow down, or just shush them with fries. 😂 But what if that happens with your clients? We sadly can't shove fries into their mouths or do anything informal. Here's what you as a therapist can do instead!

These methods especially can be helpful for all the newbie therapists and for those therapists who do get overstimulated (I am a trainee counselor, and I feel that too).  Take these steps for future reference!

Using Empathetic Confrontation

Confrontation might sound too serious to many of us. But when paired with empathy…meaning relating to the client's problems as if they were your own, stepping into their shoes…it's a powerful micro-skill. "Empathetic confrontation" refers to the therapist addressing the client's habits not negatively, but in an empathetic manner. This helps increase the client's self-awareness and resolve conflicts. For example: "I can see you're jumping from one topic to another without a break, but in our sessions, with your help, I'd like to handle one at a time, if that works for you?"

Setting Time Boundaries

Boundaries (both professional and personal) are crucial. But with clients, setting boundaries in a professional setting is even more important. Include your professional boundaries, the therapy process, and non-negotiables in your consent form. While we can't cut clients off entirely when they're on a roll, we can explain how the process will work.

Paraphrasing and summarizing

These are two other micro-skills used by therapists. The former refers to repeating or rephrasing what the client says in your own words; the latter means summing up the entire session at the beginning, middle, and end. Using these provides a professional way to interrupt the client while reassuring them that you're listening. You can add, "Did I get that right?"

Gentle Interruption

On the same lines, “interrupting” your clients at any time is not considered to be “unprofessional”. And to not make it seem like one, you can you use these phrases instead: 

• Sorry to interrupt, but could we slow down at this moment. And reflect on what you had said earlier ?

• I wanted to acknowledge the fact that you finally said that to them.

• Would you like to pause for a moment, and maybe ground ourselves ? 

Use Zensible

With clients who speak and share a lot, it may be difficult to keep them all noted down and organised. With these clients, it may be necessary to use a note taking tool or a summariser application, like Zensible that can both keep track of all the details while helping you distill the core point of the conversation.

Hoping that these tips are helpful to you as trainee or current therapists!

While our primary job is to listen to our clients and their problems, it is also necessary to ensure that therapy is a combined process. With that in mind, I'll see you all in the next one. Take care, you lovely human beans!