Fears and fantasies in communicating with behavioral health patients

Developing helping skills in communications

Communication blocks

Violating professional boundaries

1.  Identify feelings that may prevent you from comfortably communicating with people in emotional crisis.

2.  Recognize the importance of risk-taking in developing a therapeutic relationship with patients.

3.  Define four components of a model for  "helping" communication skills.

4.  Develop some possible responses to intense patient communications that feel comfortable, genuine and remain helpful.