ABSTRACT

This chapter explores nonverbal expression, a significant factor in counseling. In the US dominant cultural terms, avoiding eye contact can indicate discomfort with the counselor, the topic, or the emotions felt. The counselor’s role is to take the lead in providing a climate in which the client will be motivated to change. Even when the counselor’s own life may be in disarray, even if the counselor is experiencing emotional distress in his own life, he must put his own issues aside in order to attend to his client and her needs. Counselors often prefer to attend fully by forgoing note taking during a session. The chapter aims to describe a presentation of types of nonverbal expression and its significance in building students’ observational skills. It presents the relationship between the counselor and client and the elements of empathy, respect, and genuineness in building the therapeutic relationship.