Ch 3: listening, attending & empathy Flashcards
What is attending behaviour?
is supporting your client with individually and culturally appropriate verbal following, visuals, vocal quality, and body language/facial expression (3Vs + B)
Why is attending behaviour important?
Builds an empathic, therapeutic relationship.
Encourages clients to open up.
Activates multiple brain areas.
What is the 3 V’s + B Framework?
- Visual (Eye Contact): Maintain culturally appropriate eye contact.
- Vocal Qualities: Adjust tone, pitch, and speech rate; emphasize key words.
- Verbal Tracking: Stay on-topic to encourage full discussion.
- Body Language: Be authentic and culturally aware of personal space & gestures.
Three Levels of Empathy:
Subtractive: Minimizes or distorts client experience.
Basic: Accurately reflects the client’s words and emotions.
Additive: Enhances understanding by linking to previous points.
Neuroscience of Empathy
Mirror Neurons: Help us “feel” what others experience.
Functional MRI Studies: Show increased brain activity in empathetic individuals.
What are the key components to being empathetic? (5)
1) Active Listening: Full attention, verbal/non-verbal cues.
2) Observation: Noticing tone, body language, and emotions.
3) Reflecting & Paraphrasing: Confirming understanding.
4) Emotional Regulation: Staying present without personal bias.
5) Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding how backgrounds shape emotions.
Impact of Poor Listening on Empathy
When listening skills fail, brain activity linked to empathy decreases.
How to Redirect Conversations:
Shift focus toward strengths when clients are stuck in negativity.
Use eye contact, vocal tone, and posture changes to guide discussion
True or false: Counselor’s Focus Determines Client Engagement
True
Clients talk about what they think the counselor is willing to hear.
Attending behavior influences session length & client return.
What is the Role of Silence
It encourages deeper reflection.
Supports client processing.
The auditory cortex stays active even during silence.
What is the role of Talk Time?
Counselors should minimize their own speaking time.
Exceptions to talk time? How to combat it?
kids & less verbal clients
Use encouragers: “I understand,” “Mhm,” “That sounds difficult.”
Nonverbal cues: Nodding, smiling, open posture.
What does Social Skills Training Include? (4)
1) Interpersonal Skills: Teaching effective communication.
2) Conflict Resolution: Navigating personal & professional relationships.
3) Emotional Intelligence: Enhancing self-awareness & regulation.
4) Assertiveness Training: Expressing thoughts confidently & respectfully.
Why does social skills training matter?
Many clients lack social skills due to trauma or isolation.
Teaching listening & empathy improves relationships & well-being
Is Telebehavioral Health & Online Counseling effective?
As effective as in-person therapy for many clients.
Increased comfort during COVID-19.
Should be included in mental health training.
What’s something to keep in mind with online counselling?
Adjust listening & empathy skills for virtual settings.
What is The Power of Practice?
Skill Development Requires Repetition.
Brain Adaptation: Practicing listening skills changes the brain.
Feedback Loop: Peer evaluation & self-reflection improve competency.
