How to truly connect with your clients ?
As a therapist, one of your most vital priorities is truly connecting with your clients. Think of this as an essential Micro Skill. Whether you are meeting a client or a friend, you are co-creating a safe, collaborative space.
This skill is especially important for therapists, but do not worry, we have simplified the process for you. Here, you will find key strategies for building strong connections with your clients, along with insights on how these connections can deepen your therapeutic relationships.
Some of the key strategies you can make a note of:
1 Paying Close attention to the client
Always make sure to your client's passions and favorite pastimes during case history sessions. Highlight the hobbies that truly light them up, whether it is reading, writing, or singing. Let these interests guide your preparation as a therapist, inspiring creative ways to weave them into your sessions. This thoughtful approach helps your client feel genuinely understood and can ignite a meaningful connection.
2 Maintain Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the therapeutic relationship. As trainee therapists, we are reminded to honour this responsibility by ensuring that what clients share stays within the therapy room. However, in real-life situations, maintaining confidentiality can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. Still, it is never out of reach. Building genuine trust begins with reassuring clients that their stories will not be shared with anyone outside supervision or legal requirements, unless doing so is necessary to prevent harm.
3 Asking for Feedback
Keep asking your client for feedback, just as restaurants eagerly check in about your meal and your visit. As a therapist, invite your client to share their thoughts on your methods, the sessions overall, and whether they feel they are making progress. This not only helps you refine your practice, but also shows your client that their well-being truly matters to you.
4 Consistency is key
Be consistent with your client, in both words and actions. There may be times when you feel emotionally drained or not fully present. In such cases, it’s better to be transparent and reschedule than to push through. When you return, stay aligned with what was previously discussed and avoid sudden shifts in direction. Clients feel grounded when they sense steadiness. Your consistency becomes their reassurance of safety and reliability.
We hope these tips feel crisp and helpful! The next time you have a new client session, try weaving a few of these into your approach. You might be surprised at how much deeper the connection feels. And if you do, we’d love to know how it went! Until the next blog post, take care, you lovely human bean. P.S. You’re going to be a wonderful therapist — and if you already are one, here’s to you shining even brighter.
