Therapeutic Relationships

Last Class, we defined therapeutic relationships as the interaction between the OT practitioner and the client. I think that some aspects of therapeutic relationships will come easy to me, while others I will have to make a conscious effort towards. I have no issue with things like kidness and empathy, things like this come pretty easy for me. What I will have to be more conscious of is nonverbal communication, things like eye contact and body language. One thing I struggle with specifically is my facial expressions. My natural resting face isn't necessarily a happy one, and for some people, that can be off putting. I know that when I interact with clients I will need to be extra aware of my facial expressions. As a practitioner, you want to come across as someone who is inviting, kind, and trusting, and facial expressions are a large part of that. As I prepare to be an OT practitioner, this is something that I will continue to practice and work on, so I can be the best version of me for my clients.