Active Listening
Active listening is a crucial intervention for better communication. It involves giving full attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and responding appropriately. This intervention helps to build trust and understanding between individuals and promotes effective communication. There are many varieties of active listening, including one by the Gottman’s. The intervention that we have found to work best and use during counseling sessions is the Initiator-Inquirer. Openness and honesty are encouraged
- Clarification
Clarification is another important intervention for better communication. It involves asking questions to ensure that the message is understood correctly. This intervention helps to avoid misunderstandings and promotes clear communication. - Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. This intervention helps to build rapport and trust between individuals and promotes effective communication. - Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This intervention helps to convey emotions and feelings that may not be expressed through words. It is important to be aware of non-verbal cues to ensure effective communication. - Feedback
Feedback is an intervention that involves providing information about the effectiveness of communication. It helps to identify areas for improvement and promotes effective communication. - Conflict Resolution
Conflict resolution is an intervention that involves resolving conflicts in a constructive manner. It helps to promote effective communication by addressing issues and finding solutions that work for all parties involved. - Cultural Awareness
Cultural awareness is an intervention that involves understanding and respecting cultural differences. It helps to promote effective communication by avoiding misunderstandings and promoting inclusivity.
1a. While all the above can compliment Emotionally Focused Therapy, nothing ties everything together and leads to lasting change like EFT.
The biggest communication problem is we do not listen to understand. We listen to reply.
Steven Covey
