Using Your Face in Therapy: Sometimes a slow nod or an eye roll says it all

Sometimes we concentrate so much on knowing what to say to clients that we forget that what we don’t say is just as therapeutic. This week’s episode is all about the power and impact of nonverbal communication with our clients. This episode explores nods, smirks, grimaces, hand gestures, eye rolls, body movements and so much more. Even the smallest muscle flex in our face when perfectly timed can communicate some really big things to our clients, especially the longer we have been working with that person. After a while, our clients really do get to know us and before we’ve even said a word, they know what we’re thinking! Beyond what can be communicated silently to clients, we also talk about what a “neutral face” really is. Though we have both fervently reject being neutral in therapy, we are huge advocates for softening our faces during pivotal therapy moments and we share all about that this week.

Alison McCleary
www.alpenglowcounselling.com
@alpenglow_counselling on Instagram

Jordan Pickell
www.jordanpickellcounselling.ca
@jordanpickellcounselling on Instagram

Edge of the Couch
www.edgeofthecouch.com
@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram

We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign-up.

We're taking the couch on the road! Join us between May 9th and May 24th, we'll be heading to 8 Canadian cities for a LIVE episode recording and a chance to connect with other therapists in your area. Space is limited, so snag your ticket before it's too late! For more information, visit us on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod. We hope to see you there! 

Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch, share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram, or email us at connect@edgeofthecouch.com.

We have partnered with Janeapp, our favourite all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign-up for a free one-month grace period on your new account.

Alison McCleary
www.woodstovewellness.ca

Jordan Pickell
www.jordanpickellcounselling.ca
@jordanpickellcounselling on Instagram

Edge of the Couch
www.edgeofthecouch.com
@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram