The Words We Choose Matter: How Language Can Pull Us Toward or Push Us Away From/With Clients

Language is one of the vitally important aspects of therapeutic interaction. From a humanistic perspective, attendees will learn about some important language cues, that if attended to and addressed, will allow clients to expound upon their experiences in deeper and more meaningful ways. Attendees will learn about the language mechanisms that individuals use to disown aspects of the self. Attendees will learn the importance of identifying second-person and third-person language cues, and will be encouraged to assist clients by teaching them to use first-person language to own their experiences, which can be empowering. Come prepared to have fun, to share, and make meaningful connections between theory and practice. Handouts and resources will be provided.