Main description:

Therapists are used to asking questions, not answering them. What Do I Say? shows how client questions no matter how difficult or uncomfortable can be used to support the therapeutic process rather than derail the therapist-client relationship. Jargon-free and conversational in tone, this book provides guidance on how to answer questions on such hot-button topics as sex, religion, money, disclosing personal information, and setting boundaries. Counselors and other mental health professionals will find essential guidance from the authors' examples drawn from their own lives and work.

Contents:

Preface ix Acknowledgments xv PART 1 Client Questions in a Broad Context Introduction to Part 1 1 Why Do Clients Questions Cause Apprehension? 3 What Do the Different Theories Advise? 5 Remember, It s Not About You 11 Guidelines for Answering Questions 13 Style and Language Considerations 17 Further Thoughts 23 PART 2 Client Questions and Responses by Topic Introduction to Part 2 25 1 The Early Sessions 27 2 Experience 43 3 Therapeutic Process 54 4 Expectations About Change 70 5 Techniques 80 6 Professional Role 94 7 Money 107 8 Confidentiality 119 9 Boundaries 131 10 Personal Questions 148 11 Sexuality 169 12 Religion and Spirituality 185 13 Prejudice 201 14 Stigma 209 15 Physical Appearance 217 16 Dreams 233 17 Therapists Reactions 245 18 Individual and Cultural Differences 259 19 Involving Others 273 20 Out of the Office 285 21 Keeping in Touch 304 22 Life Events 314 23 Ending Therapy 324 Concluding Thoughts 343 References 347 Index 351 About the Authors 357