The Domain of Connecting With and Engaging the Client Part 2: responding

Second only to listening, responding is perhaps the most important thing that a therapist does. It is wise for Level I therapists to be aware of the subtleties and implications of language and the influencesintended or not-that responses can have on their clients. Words from a person in a position of power and influence (e.g., a psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor, or social worker) must be chosen carefully, because clients are vulnerable and suggestible (see Acosta & Prager, 2002; Peluso, 2006a).