When to sit with a client in silence?

Once a therapist reframes the silence as confirmation of a strong therapeutic alliance, it’s easier to become comfortable sitting with the client in silence. Continuing to build upon that alliance by demonstrating acceptance of the client’s ambivalence then becomes possible.

Why are people silent when you ask them a question?

Commonly people are silent because of impression management, this can be a problem where there are authority gradients or a sense of judgment. Basically, people don’t want to be seen as ignorant or offensive or annoying. They may not know the answer or might not be sure and don’t want to embarrass themselves by admitting it.

What to say when a client is silent during therapy?

It can be therapeutically beneficial to allow clients to sit and reflect on their thoughts with your supportive presence. Therapists can communicate support, understanding, and acceptance with gentle reflections and affirmations. “This is really hard for you to process.” “Take all the time that you need.”

What’s the best way to ask a client a question?

Think about what you want to ask. Let silence work its magic while you are thinking. Sometimes the client will continue talking, and your question will not be needed. If it still is, then ask one question. Allow the client time to reflect and respond. Basically, get comfortable with a little silence. Avoid interpreting what the client is saying.

What to do when past clients go silent?

When past clients or prospects go quiet, we mistakenly assume that they must not want or need more help. We don’t want to annoy them, so we match their silence with our own. This is a costly mistake. Never assume that people will get in touch with you when they need something.

When is a client is silent during therapy Part Two?

In Part Two, I present two additional strategies in working with a silent client. Becoming comfortable with reflective silence through providing reflections and affirmations can help the therapist to escape a narrow definition of success as verbal engagement and active change.

Is it dangerous to have a silent customer?

The silent ones are always the most dangerous. If you would like to learn how to keep your customers, you’ve first got to keep them noisy. Read this marketing article to find out just how you can make complaining clients one of your biggest assets. Imagine you run a pizza parlour.

What did John Sommers-Flanagan say to his client?

“I don’t have to talk with you, and you can’t force me to talk with you.” Not the ideal way for a counseling session to begin, but John Sommers-Flanagan didn’t let his young client’s rebuff stop him. Instead of fighting back with a clever retort, however, he simply told the client she was 100 percent right.