"To help my clients speak up about their issues and needs, I use positive self-regard techniques. I create a non-judgmental environment, and I use open communication to foster a place of trust. These methods help my clients express themselves as I show empathy and give encouraging statements. I also ask non-threatening, open-ended questions that allow them room to talk. I affirm how my client is feeling, and I walk alongside my clients by supporting them and accepting them for who they are. I encourage my clients to explore their past, and I listen to them as they express their concerns for the future. We set clear and achievable goals and work together to accomplish these targets. This teamwork approach helps my clients to feel safe, which allows them to trust me and open up further."

"My approach to helping a client speak up about their issues and needs will depend on the client's personality. I know that some people might be defensive in the beginning, even if they're the ones who decided to move forward with counseling. In those instances, I will tell my client that I understand that it's hard to open up to someone they do not know. I will assure them that they're the ones in control of their progress. I will make sure they understand that we have a therapeutic alliance and that we are partners on a journey. I will also express that I'm not there to tell them what to do but rather, to listen. I believe once my client understands the nature of our relationship, they will open up a lot more, and the treatment will have more impact because of that trust."